EU plans to extend temporary protection, but prepares plans for return and integration of Ukrainians: details of the European Commission's proposal

Temporary protection for Ukrainians is likely to be extended until 2027, but at the same time, the EU is preparing return and integration strategies for citizens. Find out what new initiatives the European Commission is proposing and what will change for Ukrainians in the EU

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The European Commission has initiated the extension of the temporary protection regime for Ukrainian citizens for another year - until March 4, 2027. This was announced on June 4 by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. She noted that: The European Union has been providing asylum to those fleeing war since 2022 and will continue to do so until it is safe to return home. Von der Leyen also emphasized that the EU is working with Ukraine to create the conditions for rebuilding the country and normal life at home.

Legal certainty until 2027: what does the extension of EU protection mean?

According to the European Commission, the decision is dictated by the ongoing attacks on Ukraine and the unstable security situation in the region. The extension of temporary protection guarantees:

● legal certainty for more than 4.3 million Ukrainians who have benefited from this status since 2022;

● uniform standards of treatment of refugees in all EU countries;

● stability for countries hosting Ukrainians in terms of social security, healthcare, education and employment.

As a reminder, temporary protection was first activated in March 2022 under the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD) for the first time in the history of the EU. The maximum period of its validity is three years, but the document has already been extended twice. And now the Commission is proposing to extend the current regime for one additional year - until 2027.

Alternative ways of legalization: the possibility of switching to other statuses after temporary protection

The European Union recognizes that many Ukrainians have already adapted in countries of temporary stay. Thus, according to the Council's recommendations, alternative forms of legal residence are planned to be developed for such people. These may include residence permits based on employment, education, research, or national long-term resident status.

However, it should be noted that such options are currently not available in all countries, for example, in Poland, it is not possible to apply for a card on the basis of residence, education or long-term resident status if a person is only on the basis of temporary protection. Therefore, if you want to change your status now, consult with specialized lawyers about the possibilities and grounds.

👉 Visit Ukraine's migration law specialists will help you navigate the complex legislation of EU countries, choose the best options for legalization or return, and correctly prepare the necessary documents.

Preparation for the return of Ukrainians: Unity Hubs, study tours and repatriation programs

In parallel with the extension of protection, the European Commission is already preparing a phased strategy for the return of Ukrainians home. It is not about coercion, but about voluntary, orderly return in cooperation with Ukraine.

The proposed initiatives include:

● study tours to Ukraine for those who are considering returning to make an informed and balanced decision;

● creating voluntary return programs that provide institutional and material support;

● organizing Unity Hubs - counseling centers that will help Ukrainians integrate in the EU or return to Ukraine. These centers will provide information, help with documents, social adaptation, and employment.

These programs will be funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).

Read also: How to return to Ukraine after the war - the article summarizes the key legal, financial and social steps.

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Possibility of early withdrawal of protection: under what conditions is it possible?

The European Commission emphasizes that if the situation in Ukraine improves, the return of citizens home may begin earlier than planned. This may mean the early withdrawal of the temporary protection status. However, such a decision will be made only by the European Council, after an appropriate security assessment.

At the same time, the Ukrainian side has a clear position: temporary protection should continue as long as the fighting continues.

This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Unity of Ukraine Oleksiy Chernyshov in a commentary to Radio Liberty during his visit to Brussels. According to him, Ukraine insists on maintaining the current status, but is ready to join the discussion of the conditions for its completion - only after a stable peace is achieved.

"The termination of temporary protection should also come with the appropriate logic, with the appropriate evolution, so that people can prepare for this period. That is, there should be a certain transition period. And we have to discuss the duration of this transition period. We have to agree on it," Chernyshov said.

What's next: when will the decision to extend temporary protection be made?

The next step will be the consideration and formal adoption by the European Council of the European Commission's proposal to extend temporary protection for another year, the integration strategy, and the approval of the Council's recommendations on the voluntary return of Ukrainians home.

During this transition period, it is important to be informed, supported and understand your situation. If you are unsure of your status or would like to learn more about your options, please contact Visit Ukraine specialists. They will help you assess your situation, guide you through the changes and suggest the best legal solutions for you and your family.

We remind you! More than 10 thousand Ukrainians in Sweden have signed a petition asking to stay in the country forever. Read why Ukrainian refugees are in favor of changes in immigration policy and what they propose in return in our previous article.

Photo: Getty Images / EyeEm / Anastasia Malaman

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