Ukrainians in the EU: Which countries are refugees no longer heading to?

In the first quarter of 2026, the number of new asylum applications from Ukrainians in the EU dropped sharply by 57%. While some European countries are discussing strict restrictions on the entry of foreigners, others continue to offer full support. Find out where refugees have stopped going and where protection status has been extended until 2027

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The migration situation in Europe is changing rapidly. After several years of record-breaking influxes of asylum seekers, European countries are now seeing a noticeable decline in migration. Experts attribute this trend both to the tightening of domestic policies and to a shift in the main countries of origin for migrants.

How many refugees are currently in Europe, and where are they going?

In the first quarter of 2026, the migration flow in Europe declined significantly. According to the European Commission, just over 173,000 asylum applications were filed in EU countries, as well as in Norway and Switzerland. This is 18% less than during the same period last year.

Traditionally, the main burden continues to fall on large Western European and Southern European countries. France became the absolute leader in terms of the number of new applications, receiving nearly 35,000. It is followed closely by Spain and Italy, each of which registered about 32,000 applications. Germany also remains one of the main destinations, having received nearly 29,000 applications from asylum seekers.

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Which European countries have stopped receiving refugees?

While some countries are accepting tens of thousands of people, in others the number of new applications has dropped to a statistical margin of error. Hungary and Slovakia are striking examples. In the first three months of 2026, these countries received only 26 and 35 applications, respectively.

Interestingly, the profile of the migrant has also changed. Whereas previously, European borders were most often crossed by people from Syria and Ukraine, now the largest number of applicants come from Venezuela, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.

The number of applications from Syrians fell by 63%, totaling just over five and a half thousand. The situation with Ukrainian citizens is even more telling: the number of new applications from Ukrainians fell by 57% compared to last year, totaling just 4,073 applications. According to experts in the field, it was precisely this sharp reduction in the flow from Ukraine and Syria that became the key factor in the overall decline in migration to the European Union.

Will refugee status be revoked for Ukrainians?

The decline in the number of new refugees is occurring against the backdrop of active discussions about tightening migration policy. Some European countries are seriously considering limiting the number of foreigners on their territory.

This issue is particularly acute in Switzerland. Local authorities are considering the possibility of holding a nationwide referendum aimed at legally limiting the country’s population. If this initiative gains public support, it could directly affect Ukrainians. In particular, a review of the special “S” protection status cannot be ruled out, as well as the introduction of strict restrictions on the entry of new refugees seeking refuge from the war.

Immigration matters often require a personalized approach, so it may be helpful for Ukrainians to consult with immigration lawyers in advance—particularly through services like Visit Ukraine—to avoid mistakes when changing their status.

Reminder! Canada’s Liberal Party has supported a visa-free regime for Ukrainians. A transition to the eTA electronic travel authorization for short-term trips is planned. Learn more about what this means in practice.

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