Protection without asylum procedure
Temporary protection status allows Ukrainian refugees to continue living in the EU without an asylum procedure. They are given access to work, medical care, social benefits, schooling and housing.
According to the EU Commission, more than 4.3 million Ukrainians currently benefit from this regulation - around 1.2 million of them in Germany.
The extension is based on the EU Temporary Protection Directive, which allows protection status to be continued if the danger situation persists. The EU Council had already emphasized in advance that the security situation in Ukraine was still critical and that many people could not reasonably be expected to return.
What happens after 2027?
In addition to extending protection, long-term solutions are also being worked on. The EU member states are discussing a coordinated return strategy and alternative residence options, such as work or study visas.
The aim is to facilitate the transition to regular Residence permit - for those who want to stay in the EU long-term.
At the same time, Ukrainians who wish to return to their home country should be better informed about return options. A gradual return to Ukraine should also be prepared - provided the security situation allows it.
Relief for asylum systems
The regulation also relieves the burden on national asylum systems, as no individual asylum application is necessary. If the situation in Ukraine improves before March 2027, the protection regulation could be lifted early - the EU Council and the Commission will decide on this.
Background: EU protection in force for the first time
Temporary protection was activated in March 2022 shortly after the Russian attack on Ukraine - for the first time in the history of the EU. It is a quick solution to offer collective protection to refugees and give member states time to take further measures.
EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner explained in June: "The extension gives those affected and the member states planning security. At the same time, we are preparing for long-term solutions."
Brunner also announced the appointment of an EU special representative for Ukrainian refugees in order to improve coordination between the countries.
