The EU may extend temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2028: what do we know?

Ilva Johansson, the EU Special Envoy for Ukrainians, expects temporary protection to be extended for another year—until March 2028. Find out what conditions and recommendations she has outlined for the more than four million Ukrainians in the European Union

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Ilva Johansson, the European Union’s Special Envoy for Ukrainians, expects that temporary protection for Ukrainians in the EU will be extended for another year — until March 2028. She stated this in an interview with DW’s Ukrainian-language video podcast “Brussels Calling.”

“Given the current situation, I think the European Commission will propose extending it for another year — until March 2028. And I think EU member states will agree to this,” Johansson said.

Read also: Is it possible to obtain renewed temporary protection in the EU — current rules for Ukrainians in 2026?

Discussions in EU countries: a common approach with “minor adjustments”

According to the Special Envoy, active discussions are currently underway among EU member states regarding a common approach to the future temporary protection of Ukrainians. Johansson is optimistic: “In my view, it seems we will agree to extend temporary protection, perhaps with some minor adjustments, but essentially for another year.” She also noted that a corresponding proposal from the European Commission will be presented “fairly soon,” as member states “are ready to do this.”

The reason for this decision is clear: the war between russia and Ukraine continues, and no peace agreement or even a lasting ceasefire is expected in the near future.

“We do not see a peace agreement in the near future. And so people, of course, need to understand what will happen next,” Johansson emphasized.

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Special Envoy’s advice: do not remain under temporary protection for years

Despite the expected extension of protection, Johansson also sent a clear message to Ukrainians who have been living in EU countries for several years: to gradually transition from temporary protection to other, more stable legal grounds for residence.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to remain under temporary protection for five or six years. You should transition to a different, more appropriate legal basis," the Special Envoy stated.

This is an important signal for those who have not yet considered legalization through other mechanisms—work permits, family reunification, student status, or humanitarian protection. Transitioning to a more permanent status provides more rights, a more stable situation, and less dependence on political decisions that must be renewed annually. If you’re unsure which status is right for your specific situation, it’s worth consulting with an immigration lawyer — the Visit Ukraine platform offers this option, where you can receive professional legal assistance online.

What is temporary protection, and how many Ukrainians use it?

The EU’s temporary protection mechanism was activated in March 2022 following the start of russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It grants Ukrainians the right to live, work, and study in EU countries without having to go through the standard procedure for obtaining a residence permit. Currently, over four million Ukrainians in the EU benefit from this status.

We remind you! In EU countries, there are voluntary return programs for Ukrainians that cover travel expenses and provide financial assistance. Read how AVRR works, how much you can receive, which countries participate, and why it’s important to properly finalize your status.

Photo: ml1413 / Freepik

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