Key points
- The European Union Council has extended temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine until March 4, 2028.
- New applicants will only be granted protection if they fulfill their military obligations in Ukraine – those who crossed the border illegally will not receive status.
- The EU Council explained the decision due to Ukraine’s changing defense needs.
- The restriction only applies to new applicants and does not affect those who already have temporary protection status.
- Applicants must confirm their lawful departure with a passport stamp or a document releasing them from military service.
The European Union Council extended temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine until March 4, 2028.
At the same time, protection will now only be granted to new applicants who fulfill their military obligations in Ukraine. This means that military obligants who crossed the border illegally will not be able to receive status. The EU Council explained this decision due to Ukraine’s changing defense needs.
The restriction applies exclusively to new applicants and does not affect people who already have temporary protection status in the EU. To confirm their right to protection, applicants must show a passport with a stamp of lawful departure from Ukraine or a document that certifies release from military service or completion of such service.
The previous term of protection was set to expire on March 4, 2027 – the adopted decision extends the program for another year. The EU Council will finally approve this decision within the next few weeks, after which it will be published in the EU’s official journal and will come into effect the next day.
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