Germany Will Not Introduce a Special Status for Ukrainians: How to Regularize Your Status After Temporary Protection?

Germany will not introduce a special approach to regularizing the status of Ukrainians after temporary protection. Find out what residence permit options are available, how to obtain a Fiktionsbescheid, and what steps to take to remain in the country legally

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Ukrainians in Germany will not receive a separate legal status once temporary protection ends. As reported by relocate.to, the country’s federal government has decided that the transition to continued residence will take place exclusively through the standard mechanisms of immigration law.

Why did Germany decide against granting special status to Ukrainians?

As of 2026, there are approximately 1.1 million Ukrainians in Germany under temporary protection, a significant portion of whom have already integrated — working, renting housing, and paying taxes. This was the key argument for rejecting separate status, unlike in some other EU countries.

However, this approach has drawn criticism: in major cities, particularly Berlin, where over 70,000 Ukrainians are registered, immigration offices are already overwhelmed. Wait times for submitting documents can range from 6 to 12 months.

What to do after temporary protection ends?

Once §24 of the AufenthG expires, every Ukrainian must independently determine which type of residence permit (Residence Permit) is suitable for them, prepare the necessary documents, and apply to the local Ausländerbehörde.

It is important to act early in such matters, as the process can be complex. If necessary, it is worth consulting immigration lawyers — for example, through Visit Ukraine, where they help identify the optimal path to legalization and prepare documents without errors.

Read also: Transition from Paragraph 24 for Ukrainians in Germany — what are the options in 2026?

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Fiktionsbescheid: How to Stay in Germany Legally?

The key document during the transition period is the Fiktionsbescheid — a temporary certificate confirming that the application for a residence permit has been submitted and is under review. It allows you to:

● stay in Germany legally;

● work;

● access most social services.

Important: this document is not issued automatically. You must request it separately when submitting your documents.

How to obtain a Fiktionsbescheid: step-by-step

To avoid losing your legal status, follow these steps:

1. Register with the Ausländerbehörde at least 6 months before your permit expires.

2. Prepare the required documents: passport, Anmeldung, photo, proof of income or employment.

3. Submit an application for a residence permit.

4. Separately request a Fiktionsbescheid.

5. Keep the document until you receive a decision.

What types of residence permits are available to Ukrainians?

After temporary protection expires, several main options are available:

● Residence permit for employment. Suitable for those with official employment. An employment contract, proof of qualifications, and a stable income are required.

● EU Blue Card. For highly qualified professionals with a salary of approximately 45,300 euros per year (or lower for shortage occupations). Provides a faster path to permanent residency.

● Family reunification. Possible if relatives already have a residence permit or German citizenship. Proof of family ties and income is required.

● Residence permit for entrepreneurs and freelancers. Suitable for those who run a business or are self-employed. You must demonstrate the economic viability of your activities.

Read also: After March 4, 2027 — how can Ukrainians legalize their status in Germany and avoid losing it?

How to obtain permanent residency in Germany?

A Niederlassungserlaubnis is a permanent residence permit. Main requirements:

● approximately 5 years of legal residence;

● stable income;

● German language proficiency at the B1 level;

● no criminal record.

For Blue Card holders, the timeframes may be reduced to 21–33 months.

Voluntary return programs to Ukraine

Those planning to return can take advantage of the REAG/GARP program. It provides financial assistance of up to 3,000 euros and reimbursement of travel expenses. However, you must apply before the end of temporary protection or shortly thereafter.

The process of transitioning to a new status in Germany requires time and preparation. Due to system overload, it’s best to be proactive: check your documents, decide on the type of residence permit, and consult specialists if needed. Consulting with immigration lawyers through Visit Ukraine can significantly simplify this process and help avoid rejections.

We remind you! Germany continues to accept refugees from Ukraine under the temporary protection program, Paragraph 24. Unfortunately, camps are no longer open in all federal states. Read more about living conditions for Ukrainian refugees and current camp conditions in Germany as of May 2026.

Photo: bearfotos / Freepik

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