Is Ireland evicting Ukrainian refugees? Free housing scheme to be scrapped

The Irish government is radically changing the terms of support for Ukrainian refugees, terminating contracts with hotels on a massive scale. As hotels return to the tourism sector, the system of free accommodation is rapidly shrinking, whilst the pressure on the rental market is increasing. Find out what to do if you face eviction

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Ireland is indeed gradually phasing out its free accommodation scheme for Ukrainian refugees. The government is scaling back the centralised housing allocation system, forcing people to find accommodation on their own or move to other parts of the country. In this article, we will examine the reasons behind these changes in detail and explain what Ukrainians should do under the new circumstances.

Ireland is evicting Ukrainians: what is happening with housing?

The abolition of free housing is part of Ireland’s nationwide policy to scale back temporary support programmes. Over 90 contracts with hotels have already been terminated, and these properties are returning to the tourism sector. As a result, some Ukrainians are being forced to vacate state-provided accommodation urgently and look for rental options on the private market.

Why is Ireland scrapping free accommodation for Ukrainians?

The main reason for winding down the programme is the need to revive the tourism sector. According to the Irish Independent, hotels and other establishments that have been hosting displaced persons since the start of the full-scale war are returning en masse to their core commercial activities.

For example, in County Kerry, dozens of hotels have already withdrawn from the state support programme. This means that the centralised accommodation system can no longer operate at its previous scale. Similar processes are currently taking place across the whole of Ireland.

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Where are refugees being relocated in Ireland and how can they find accommodation?

Once their contracts with hotels have ended, Ukrainians in most cases have to find new accommodation themselves. Displaced persons have to either rent property at their own expense or plan to move to other regions of the country where options may still be available.

It is worth bearing in mind that the mass withdrawal of hotels from the support scheme is causing a sharp increase in pressure on the local rental market. Finding a vacant flat is becoming increasingly difficult. Therefore, you should start looking for accommodation or seek advice on moving well in advance, without waiting for an official eviction notice from your hotel.

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.

Reminder! Ireland plans to pay Ukrainians to return home. Find out what payments are on offer, why the policy is changing and what this means for Ukrainians.

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