The Netherlands gives Ukrainian citizens the right to visit their home country under protection. But for a limited period of time. Here are the important aspects to consider before traveling home

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Ukrainians who have found refuge in the Netherlands have the right to temporarily leave the country. However, in order not to lose social support, a number of requirements must be met.

From December 1, 2022, the rules governing the temporary departure of refugees came into force in the Netherlands.

What should be considered before the trip?

Rules for temporary departure from the Netherlands

Ukrainians who do not receive social assistance in the Netherlands, in particular housing and financial support, have the right to leave the country and return without re-registration during the entire period of temporary protection. The date of the end of protection is indicated on the sticker pasted in the passport of a Ukrainian.

Departure for Ukrainians who receive social support in the Netherlands

The departure of refugees who receive financial assistance cannot exceed 28 days. If you are absent for more than 28 days, the municipality may stop providing assistance.

Also, before traveling, it is necessary to notify the municipality about your temporary departure and its duration. If you decide to leave without warning, the municipality has the right to take away all the social guarantees provided to you (place in the reception center, housing allowance, etc.). This happens from the date you are found to have left without notice.

Importantly! If the duration of your trip exceeds 14 days and in case of a high level of occupancy of the shelter, the municipality reserves the right to transfer the shelter to someone else. When you return, you can get accommodation in another reception place or municipality.

Return to the Netherlands

If you have notified the municipality where you live in advance of your temporary departure, this will not affect your housing or financial assistance.

If you have exceeded the permissible period of departure and lost social assistance, you still have the right to find another place of reception and issue payments anew.

Rules for refugees who do not plan to return to the Netherlands:

1. Notify the asylum worker about departure.

2. Unregister from the municipality. You will receive the application form at the reception.

We remind you! Many Ukrainians arrived in other countries by car, which greatly simplified their stay there. Read more about the current rules and documents for Ukrainians who have arrived in the Netherlands by car in our article.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.