The number of Ukrainians with temporary protection in the EU has grown to 4.35 million: where the largest increase has been recorded

The number of Ukrainians with temporary protection in EU countries continues to grow and has already reached 4.35 million people. Find out which countries have seen the largest increase and where most Ukrainian refugees live

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As of December 31, 2025, 4.35 million Ukrainian citizens had temporary protection status in European Union countries. Over the month, this figure increased by 24,675 people, or +0.6%. These data were published by Eurostat.

The statistics show that the number of Ukrainians staying in the EU remains stable and that migration flows continue to be redistributed among member states.

Where in the EU do most Ukrainians with temporary protection live?

In terms of the absolute number of temporary protection recipients, three countries remain in the lead:

● Germany — 1,250,620 people (28.7% of the total number in the EU)

● Poland — 969,240 people (22.3%)

● Czech Republic — 393,055 people (9.0%)

Thus, almost two-thirds of all Ukrainians with temporary protection are concentrated in these three countries.

At the same time, when taking into account the ratio to the local population, the highest concentration of Ukrainians is recorded in the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and Cyprus. This means that the burden on the social infrastructure and labor market in these countries is relatively higher.

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Which EU countries have seen the largest increase

Among the 26 EU countries for which data is available, 22 countries have seen an increase in the number of persons under temporary protection. The largest monthly increase was recorded in:

● Germany — +9,620 persons

● Spain — +2,235 persons

● Romania — +2,160 people

These figures indicate further internal migration of Ukrainians within the EU, as well as the continued attractiveness of certain countries for employment and long-term residence.

Where the number of Ukrainians has decreased

At the same time, four EU countries recorded a decrease in the number of Ukrainians with temporary protection. The largest number of deregistrations occurred in:

● France — minus 1,250 people

● Estonia — minus 470 people

The reasons may vary — from moving to other EU countries to returning to Ukraine or changing legal status.

What these statistics mean for Ukrainians

The 0.6% increase in the total number of temporary protection recipients per month shows that the EU remains a key destination for Ukrainians seeking safe living and working conditions.

At the same time, the concentration in a few countries creates additional challenges for national integration systems and the labor market. That is why questions about extending status, changing the type of residence permit, or transitioning to long-term forms of stay are increasingly being raised.

Ukrainians who are planning to move within the EU or want to change their migration status should assess the legal risks in advance. The Visit Ukraine platform offers consultations with migration lawyers who can help you understand the rules of temporary protection, employment conditions, and the prospects of obtaining a long-term residence permit in different European countries.

We remind you! In 2026, temporary protection for Ukrainians in Europe will remain available, but the conditions will vary significantly from country to country. To avoid mistakes with documents and not lose your right to support, it is important to understand in advance what requirements apply in your chosen country. Read more about which EU countries provide temporary protection to Ukrainians in 2026, what conditions of stay apply, and what documents are required for legal residence.

Photo: EPA / UPG

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