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2 min

21 Apr. 2026

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Ireland Is Ready to Pay Ukrainians to Return Home: Here’s How Much They’re Offering

For refugees
Finance
Ireland
Ireland Is Ready to Pay Ukrainians to Return Home: Here’s How Much They’re Offering

Ireland plans to pay Ukrainians to return home. Find out what payments are being offered, why the policy is changing, and what this means for Ukrainians

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad
Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad
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The Irish government is preparing a new policy regarding Ukrainians under temporary protection, a key element of which will be financial support for those who decide to return to Ukraine. This involves direct payments that could amount to thousands of euros. This is reported by The Times.


Financial Assistance for Return


The main change being discussed by the Irish government is the introduction of payments to encourage Ukrainians to return home voluntarily. According to preliminary data, the following amounts are planned:

● up to 2,500 euros per person;

● up to 10,000 euros per family.


These payments are planned to coincide with the expiration of temporary protection in the European Union to encourage an organized return after 2027. In essence, this involves a shift from a model of long-term support to a model of financial support for return.


The government explains the new approach by several factors. Among them:

● a housing shortage in the country;

● the need to return hotels to the tourism sector;

● a review of social spending levels.


At the same time, government officials note that the current level of support for Ukrainians in Ireland is higher than in many other EU countries, and in the long term, it is considered excessive. That is why the focus is gradually shifting from keeping Ukrainians in the country to supporting those who are ready to return.




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What other changes does the new policy entail?


In addition to return incentives, the government also plans to review other support mechanisms. Specifically, it intends to gradually phase out free housing programs and reduce payments to families hosting Ukrainians from 600 to 400 euros, with the prospect of full elimination.


For Ukrainians currently in the country, this signals a shift in approach. In this situation, it is important to assess your own plans—whether to stay, change your status, or take advantage of return programs. If you have questions regarding legalization or continued residence in the EU, it is advisable to consult with specialists in advance. In particular, Ukrainians can receive consultation from immigration lawyers through Visit Ukraine—this will help avoid mistakes and understand the available options.




We remind you! Ireland is changing its support rules for Ukrainians: benefits are being reduced, and temporary housing is being phased out. The government is focusing on self-integration and refugees entering the labor market. This will affect the living conditions and financial stability of thousands of people. Read about which changes will take effect and how to prepare for them.


Photo: dasun404malaka / Freepik


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Frequantly
asked questions
Is free housing for Ukrainians in Ireland being discontinued?
Yes, the government plans to phase out such programs over the course of the year.
What payments are being offered to Ukrainians for returning home?
Why is Ireland changing its policy toward Ukrainians?

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