European Union countries have agreed to extend the temporary protection programme for Ukrainian citizens for another year, until March 2027. This decision will allow millions of Ukrainians to continue to live legally in the EU, use medical services and social benefits, and work without having to apply for refugee status.
According to European media reports, this is not the first time the European Union has extended this mechanism, which was introduced in March 2022 after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As of today, it covers about 4.3 million Ukrainians, most of whom live in Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
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In addition to extending protection, EU member states are discussing a long-term strategy. The focus is on a gradual and coordinated transition of Ukrainian citizens to other types of legal residence, in particular work or student visas. At the same time, preparations are underway for possible future repatriation after the end of the war.
The European Commission has called on member states to create conditions for the safe return of those who wish to do so and to improve the provision of information to Ukrainians about available visa or immigration status options.
The decision to extend temporary protection was officially agreed in the summer of 2025. According to European officials, this step is in line with both the EU’s humanitarian commitments and the practical challenges associated with the mass displacement of people as a result of the war.
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