Is it possible to obtain temporary protection in Croatia if you left Ukraine before February 24, 2022 – explains Visit Ukraine lawyer

In order to obtain temporary protection in Croatia, Ukrainian citizens must meet certain requirements, one of which is to leave Ukraine after February 24, 2022. However, what should you do if you have already been working in the EU at the beginning of the full-scale protection period? Let's analyze the situation and ways to solve it on the example of a real appeal to Visit Ukraine lawyers

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

GET

Visit Ukraine's lawyers receive new inquiries on a daily basis regarding the legal aspects of temporary protection and migration processes. Each case is a unique situation that requires an individual approach and a thorough analysis of the client's options.

Our specialists strive to provide the most clear and practical advice that will be useful not only from a legal point of view, but also taking into account specific circumstances. This means that instead of dry legal terms and standard answers, our lawyers provide simple and accessible recommendations that will help resolve the client's situation. And today we will consider one such case that may be useful to many of our readers.

How does a Visit Ukraine lawyer consult on migration issues?

In this case study, we will show how professional legal support from Visit Ukraine specialists helps to turn complex migration situations into clear and understandable steps leading to a successful resolution of the client's issue.

Query: I have been in Croatia since the beginning of the war, with three children. My husband worked in Croatia for one month, and when the war started, I came to Croatia with my children. We were granted temporary protection. Later, my husband also tried to get temporary protection, but he was denied. He also wrote a letter to the Ministry, but they told him that he was here before the war and was not eligible. Can I write a letter as a wife and ask for protection as a family reunification? We are officially married. I work in Croatia, our children go to school. My husband is currently working in Belgium. Thank you!

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Is it possible to obtain temporary protection in Croatia through family reunification?

So, is it possible to obtain temporary protection in Croatia through family reunification if you left Ukraine before February 24, 2022? This is the answer a client of Visit Ukraine lawyers received.

In your situation, consulting on the possibility of obtaining temporary protection for your husband in Croatia has several aspects. Here are the key points to pay attention to:

1. Temporary protection rules in the EU and Croatia: According to the EU rules on temporary protection, this form of protection is granted to Ukrainian citizens who left the country after the outbreak of hostilities (February 24, 2022). If your husband was in Croatia before this date, his status may not be considered as eligible for temporary protection because he was already in the country before the outbreak of war.

2. Family reunification: However, you have the right to apply to the competent Croatian authorities for temporary protection for your husband on the grounds of family reunification. Since you are officially married, work in Croatia and your children attend school, this is a good reason for such an application.

3. Written application: It is recommended that you prepare a written request to the Ministry of the Interior of Croatia or the relevant Migration Office. Your request should:

● Describe in detail the circumstances of your move to Croatia.

● Provide documents confirming your official marriage (marriage certificate).

● Attach documents confirming your employment and children's schooling.

● Explain the situation of your husband, in particular the fact that he works in Belgium and needs protection as part of your family.

4. Have the request drafted by a lawyer: It is recommended that you contact a qualified lawyer who can help you prepare the application and provide additional legal support.

5. Other options: If your husband is repeatedly denied temporary protection in Croatia, consider moving to another EU country for permanent residence, where it is possible to apply for protection or another type of residence permit as part of family reunification.

Your situation is quite complicated, but attempting family reunification based on your status in Croatia is a legally valid path. Good luck with this process!

How to make an appointment for a legal consultation with a Visit Ukraine lawyer?

Visit Ukraine lawyers provide consultations for Ukrainians on any migration issues (and not only). Our team includes specialized lawyers in relocation, visa obtainment, employment and study abroad, as well as starting and running a business in Ukraine and abroad.

To get qualified assistance, please select the appropriate area and follow the link:

– migration issues;

– visa application;

– work and study outside Ukraine;

– starting and doing business in Ukraine and relocating companies abroad.

After that, follow these simple steps:

1. Select the country (for which you want to get advice)

2. Choose the type of cooperation (written/oral consultation or support)

3. Fill in the form (personal data and contacts)

4. Agree to the terms of the contract and pay for the service

Alternative: if you do not know what type of consultation is best for your situation, contact our managers directly via Telegram or WhatsApp. Our specialists will advise you and help you make an appointment.

Visit Ukraine lawyers are not just experts in their field, but true strategists who are ready to develop a unique solution for you that takes into account all the nuances of your situation and local legislation. Sign up for a consultation now and get not only legal assistance, but also a clear plan of action to achieve your goal.

We remind you! In a previous article, Visit Ukraine lawyers have already explained how to obtain a humanitarian residence permit in the EU in 2025 after a refusal. Follow the link to find answers to all your questions.

Photo: Freepik

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.