Millions of Ukrainians who are under temporary protection in the EU will have to gradually switch to other forms of legal residence. The European Commission has officially issued recommendations that envisage a transition to national migration statuses that are more stable and longer-term. Such steps should reflect the level of integration of Ukrainians into European societies.
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Over the past three years, many have not only found temporary shelter, but have also taken root in their new environment: they have found jobs, received education, started their own businesses or learned a language. The European Commission calls on member states to simplify procedures for granting long-term residence permits, support workers, students, researchers and entrepreneurs from Ukraine, and create clear mechanisms for the transition to legal migration status in accordance with EU law.
At the same time, the European Commission pointed out that temporary protection cannot be combined with other visas or permits. Therefore, Ukrainians will have to choose whether to remain under protection or apply for another type of legal stay, depending on their legal and life status. These may include work contracts, university enrolment, or business licences.
Several European countries have already begun the transition to new approaches. In Germany, Ukrainians will be able to apply for permanent residence after five years, provided they have a stable income, housing and language skills. Poland is actively developing a system for switching to a residence card, and the Czech Republic allows for a change of status if you have a job or study. Lithuania has one of the fastest procedures for issuing temporary residence permits. Even Norway, although not a member of the EU, is developing its own employment-based adaptation programmes.
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