The EU Extends Temporary Protection for Ukrainians: How Long Will It Last?

On Friday, June 13, the European Union extended the temporary protection mechanism for Ukrainians until March 2027. The decision ensures continued access to shelter, healthcare, education, and employment for those displaced by Russia’s full-scale invasion.

This was stated by European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, during an EU Council meeting in Luxembourg, according to Interfax-Ukraine.

“Today, we are continuing temporary protection for the citizens of Ukraine, but we are also discussing the way forward — a roadmap — because Ukrainians desperately need the return of their people to rebuild the country. That is what we are working on,” Brunner noted.

He added that Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister, Oleksiy Chernyshov, who was invited to the discussion, is participating in the meeting.

“We have been informed about the extension of temporary protection status for Ukrainian refugees for another year, until March 2027. It is very important to provide these people with clarity regarding their life planning and safety. We are very grateful to the European Union for this crucial and timely decision,” the Ukrainian minister said.

The official also emphasized the importance of engaging with Ukrainians currently living in Europe under temporary protection:
“Right now, around 5 million Ukrainians are under temporary protection, having left Ukraine after the start of the full-scale invasion. This number continues to grow. Sixty percent are in Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Germany has taken in the largest number — over 1.2 million people.

We must be ready to support the voluntary return of some or most Ukrainians after the war ends, and a stable peace is established. To that end, we are preparing special centers in the capitals of EU countries called ‘Unity Hubs.’ These will offer professional services to Ukrainians who are considering returning home once peace is achieved, as well as to those who choose to integrate into the European Union,” Chernyshov said.
As a reminder, the Estonian authorities have revised their approach to providing housing for Ukrainians. Now, refugees will no longer be compensated for their housing rental costs.

As reported, Ukrainian refugees in the EU may lose their legal status. The reason is that European leaders do not have a plan that would allow them to stay after the conclusion of a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.

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