Ukraine updates rules for IDPs: Zelensky signs law that changes system of support for displaced people

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a new version of the Law of Ukraine “On Ensuring the Rights and Freedoms of Internally Displaced Persons”, which comprehensively updates the rules for supporting internally displaced persons. The document will come into force on October 22, 2026 and replaces the approaches that have been in effect since 2014.

The new law provides for the digitalization of most services for IDPs, expands housing and social guarantees, defines new rules for maintaining the status of an IDP, and introduces additional protection for those with credit obligations.

Electronic extract instead of just a paper certificate

After the launch of the Unified Information Database of IDPs, IDPs will be able to receive not only a paper certificate, but also an electronic extract that will confirm their status.

The document will contain information about the fact of internal displacement and the registered place of residence. The electronic and paper formats will have the same legal force.

At the same time, all certificates issued earlier remain valid, so there is no need to exchange them.

It will be possible to report a change of residence within 30 days

The new law increases the deadline for notifying the state about a change of residence.

If an IDP moves, returns to an abandoned home or changes their address, they will need to report this within 30 calendar days.

The relevant application can be submitted through the ASN, local government body or district state administration.

When can IDP status be canceled

The document clearly defines the cases when the status of an internally displaced person is terminated.

At the request of the person himself, this is possible if he:

returned to his permanent place of residence;
went abroad for permanent residence;
voluntarily deregistered.

In addition, the status can be canceled without a person’s application if:

he was outside Ukraine for more than 90 consecutive days or more than 180 days in total during the year;
submitted false information to obtain the status;
was convicted of crimes defined by law;
did not report on return after restoration of safe living conditions.

At the same time, the law allows for re-registration of IDP status if there are appropriate grounds.

A unified electronic housing system will be launched

One of the main innovations will be the creation of an Information and Analytical System of Real Estate Objects.

It will include information on state, municipal and, with the consent of the owners, private housing that can be used to accommodate IDPs.

IDPs will be able to view available housing options on an interactive map and submit applications online.

Special commissions will also be created to assess the suitability of housing facilities for residence.

Certain categories of IDPs are guaranteed that during martial law and for another six months after its end, they will not be evicted from their places of temporary residence only due to the expiration of the established period of stay.

Social guarantees expanded

The new law confirms that internally displaced persons enjoy all rights on an equal basis with other citizens of Ukraine.

In particular, separate or more complex rules for assigning pensions cannot be established for them.

The right to:

medical care;
social services;
rehabilitation;
vocational training;
employment programs;
state support during education is also guaranteed.

It is separately determined that children of IDPs can study at the place of registration of one of the parents.

Additional protection for borrowers

The law also provides new guarantees for displaced persons who have loans.

They will not be charged fines, penalties and other sanctions for late payments, and creditors will be obliged to recalculate the debt after the borrower’s request.

In addition:

the total amount of interest cannot exceed the minimum rate specified in the contract;

without the debtor’s consent, the right to claim under the loan is not allowed to be transferred to another person (except in cases provided for by law);
the use of these guarantees cannot be a basis for refusing to issue new loans.
A new model of support for displaced persons

For the first time, the document comprehensively defines the state policy towards internally displaced persons – from initial adaptation after moving to integration in a new community or returning home after the end of the war.

It also provides for an assessment of the individual needs of displaced persons, on the basis of which targeted state support will be provided.

It is expected that the new law will make the IDP assistance system more modern, digital and effective, as well as strengthen social, housing and financial guarantees for millions of Ukrainians.