The EU extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2028: additional conditions were provided for new applicants

The European Union has extended temporary protection for citizens of Ukraine until March 4, 2028. At the same time, for persons who will apply for such status after the new rules come into force, an additional condition is provided for confirming the fulfillment of military duty or exemption from it.

The decision to extend temporary protection was adopted by the EU Council on July 30. The need for such a step is explained by the security situation in Ukraine and the impossibility of the safe return of a significant number of citizens.

Currently, about 4.4 million people are enjoying temporary protection in the European Union countries.

What will change for new applicants

The new rules will primarily apply to Ukrainians who will apply for temporary protection after the relevant decision comes into force.

According to the published information, new applicants must confirm the legality of their departure from Ukraine, as well as provide information about the fulfillment of military duty or the presence of grounds for exemption from it.

Both paper and electronic documents can be used to confirm the relevant status.

In particular, the “Reserve+” application can be used to verify information.

Do the new requirements apply to those who already have protection

Ukrainians who have received temporary protection in a certain EU country before July 30, 2026 and continue to stay in this country do not have to go through the status registration procedure again.

Automatic deprivation of already received temporary protection due to the lack of “Reserve+” is also not envisaged.

At the same time, the situation may change if a person moves to another European Union country and applies there for temporary protection again. In this case, he may be considered as a new applicant and asked to provide documents stipulated by the updated rules.

Temporary protection – only in one EU country

The European Union also emphasizes that a person can use temporary protection in only one member state at a time.

To monitor compliance with this principle, EU countries should exchange relevant information through a special registration platform.

In addition, the updated approach provides for a gradual transition of Ukrainians from the temporary protection regime to other legal grounds for stay in the EU, in particular, employment-related permits.

Once the security situation improves, it is also envisaged to create conditions for the gradual voluntary return of Ukrainians home.