It's time to get ready! Germany is unlikely to extend special status for refugees: what should Ukrainians do?

Temporary protection in Germany has a specific duration, and discussions about its future have already reached the official level. Ukrainians are advised not to delay decisions about their status, as residency rules may change after 2027. Find out what legalisation options are available and how to prepare in advance so as not to lose your right to stay

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The future of temporary protection in Germany is gradually becoming a key issue for millions of Ukrainians. Although the pan-European mechanism will remain in place until March 2027, the country's authorities have already made it clear that there may not be an automatic extension. This means that those who plan to stay need to start preparing in advance. This is reported by DW.

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What they say in Berlin

The German Federal Ministry of the Interior has stated that there are no plans to introduce a separate new status specifically for Ukrainians. After the temporary protection expires, there may be a transition period, but its conditions have not yet been determined. This means one thing: further residence will depend not on a collective decision by the EU, but on the personal situation of each individual.

Temporary protection itself was conceived as an emergency measure for the period of war, not as a permanent migration tool. Germany is now gradually returning to its standard immigration system.

Why it is important not to wait until 2027

Around a quarter of all Ukrainian refugees in the EU live in Germany. When the mass transition to other types of residence begins, the immigration authorities will find themselves under enormous pressure. If you wait until the last minute to submit your documents, you may face queues, delays in the processing of cases and legal pauses in your status.

Essentially, the sooner a person decides on their basis for residence, the smoother the process will be.

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Who will find it easier to stay

The most stable position is for those who have already integrated into German society. Contract work, paying taxes, knowledge of the language and qualifications significantly increase the chances of obtaining a regular residence permit. Germany is effectively offering Ukrainians the opportunity to move from the category of temporary protection recipients to that of labour migrants.

For qualified specialists, work residence permits and the EU Blue Card are available. Young people often choose vocational training (Ausbildung), which also gives them the right to live and work legally in the country. Studying at a university or family reunification are additional options for legalisation.

Who may find it more difficult

Those who are unemployed or completely dependent on social assistance will find it much more difficult to retain their right of residence after the temporary protection expires. Social status alone will not be a basis for further residence.

It is important to understand that this is not about mass deportations. While the fighting continues, Germany is not demanding the return of Ukrainians. But after the temporary mechanism ends, it will be impossible to remain without a new legal basis.

What to do now

Preparation begins with basic steps: learning German, finding stable employment or vocational training, and checking the recognition of your diploma. It would be useful to consult with a migration specialist to determine the best path to legalisation in advance.

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Reminder! Ukrainians with temporary protection under §24 in Germany are increasingly interested in the possibility of naturalisation. The law allows this period to be counted towards the required length of residence, but a number of additional conditions must be met in order to apply for citizenship. Learn more about the requirements for naturalisation, changing your residence permit type, and the nuances that may affect your path to a German passport.

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