What Will Happen to Ukrainians in Lithuania and Latvia After 2027: Rules, Risks, and Options for Legalization

Ukrainians in Lithuania and Latvia need to prepare for the expiration of temporary protection in 2027. Find out what legalization options are available, who has the best chance of staying, and what you need to do right now

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About 47,000 Ukrainians in Lithuania and thousands in Latvia are currently living under temporary protection, which will expire in less than a year. For some, this is merely a lingering concern; for others, it’s a call to action. Relocate.to reports on this.

Key Date: When Does Temporary Protection End?

The key date to remember is March 4, 2027. That is when, in accordance with EU Directive 2001/55/EC, temporary protection for Ukrainians in EU countries will expire.

There is no provision for automatic renewal. This means that after this date, a different status will be required for legal residence.

How does temporary protection currently work in Lithuania and Latvia?

Despite the single European directive, the approaches of the two countries differ.

Lithuania: important deadlines and nuances

In Lithuania, the government has already extended temporary protection until March 2027. At the same time:

● 30–40 new applications are submitted daily;

● the replacement of physical permits was supposed to take place by March 4, 2026;

● those who missed the deadline must urgently contact the MIGRI migration service.

Latvia: A Different Permit Format

In Latvia, Ukrainians receive not only protection status but also three-year residence permits (TRP):

● Applications can be submitted through OCMA;

● Online submission is available, or in person in Riga (Pēles iela 9);

● There are no strict deadlines, but delaying is not recommended.

In both countries, the same rights currently apply: access to work, education, and healthcare. After 2027, these rights will need to be confirmed by a new status.

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What are the options for legalization after protection ends?

Once temporary protection ends, standard immigration procedures will apply. There are three main grounds for obtaining a residence permit:

● Employment — an official employment contract is the strongest argument;

● Family — marriage, partnership, or children with legal status;

● Business — starting a company or self-employment status.

In Lithuania, language proficiency is not required when transitioning from protection status, which is a key difference from many other EU countries.

At the same time, Ukrainians from regions not considered active combat zones may face additional scrutiny during application reviews. Men aged 18–60 undergo checks regarding their mobilization status.

Mothers with children: the best chances for legalization

Mothers with minor children have the best chances of staying, especially if they are the sole guardians.

In Latvia:

● TRP is available on family grounds;

● the child’s enrollment in school is a strong argument;

● priority is given to single mothers;

● required documents: birth certificate, proof of residence, guardianship documents.

In Lithuania:

● TRP is also available for families;

● the need for rehabilitation of children from conflict zones is taken into account;

● language proficiency is not required;

● family reunification significantly simplifies the process.

It is more difficult for retirees, but options exist

Humanitarian and family-based grounds are available for people of retirement age.

Latvia:

● TRP on humanitarian grounds (with medical documentation);

● family TRP if relatives have legal status;

● social assistance will be limited after 2027.

Lithuania:

● status for vulnerable groups;

● continued access to healthcare subject to renewal;

● the easiest route is through family ties.

What should you do right now?

Although there is still time until 2027, immigration services are already seeing an increase in workload. Therefore, it is advisable to act in advance.

Key steps:

● Check the validity of your documents;

● Determine the basis for legalization;

● Gather the required documents (passport, certificates, employment contract, or medical records);

● Schedule a consultation with MIGRI or OCMA;

● Do not wait until the last minute to submit your application.

Fall 2026 is projected to be the peak period in terms of the number of applications.

If you’re facing a complex situation—for example, multiple potential grounds for legalization or questions regarding your status—it’s worth seeking professional assistance. Visit Ukraine offers services from immigration lawyers for Ukrainians who can help assess your chances, properly prepare your documents, and avoid mistakes during the application process.

We remind you! The EU may change the rules for Ukrainian refugees and review temporary protection after 2027. Read about what restrictions are being discussed, who they might affect, and what this means for Ukrainians.

Photo: reginamart / Freepik

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