The Swiss government has extended the special protection status for Ukrainian refugees and left support measures unchanged. Find out more about the stay of Ukrainians in the country in 2024

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The Swiss government has decided to extend temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees with S status until March 4, 2026. This was reported by the press service of the Swiss government.

All social support measures provided to holders of this status remain in force, which provides Ukrainians with access to basic social services, including housing, financial assistance and medical care.

We will tell you about the current conditions for refugees in the country and what kind of assistance they can apply for.

Reasons for extending protection

According to official statements, the security situation in Ukraine “will not change in the foreseeable future.” The Swiss authorities have noted that there are no grounds to cancel the protection status earlier than the established deadline, unless the security situation in Ukraine improves dramatically.

Thus, the extension of protection will provide Ukrainian refugees with stability and predictability of their status, and cantonal authorities, communities and employers with a clear understanding of further actions in the context of integration.

Social and labor integration of refugees

In addition to continuing protection, the Swiss government emphasizes the need to integrate Ukrainian refugees into society, especially in the labor sphere. To this end, the authorities are expanding and deepening existing support programs aimed at helping refugees adapt to the labor market and social life of the country. This includes language courses, vocational training and employment programs that enable Ukrainians to integrate more effectively into the Swiss economy.

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Conditions for Ukrainian refugees in Switzerland today

According to the rules, Ukrainian refugees with S status are entitled to housing, financial support, health insurance and social services.

The amount of financial assistance depends on the canton where the refugee lives and may vary. On average, the amount per person is about CHF 1,000 per month, which covers basic living expenses.

Number of refugees in Switzerland

As of July 31, 2024, 66,182 Ukrainians in Switzerland had a category S residence permit, according to the Federal Office of Migration (SEM). 

Earlier it was reported that as of July 4, 2024, only 63.1% of Ukrainians out of the total number of those who applied for protection in the country lived in Switzerland. 

Prospects for further integration

The Swiss government recognizes that it takes time and effort to fully integrate Ukrainians into society. The extension of the protection status until 2026 will expand opportunities for the long-term social and labor integration of refugees, as well as provide the necessary conditions for their adaptation to life in the country. It will also help to avoid social tensions and ensure stability for both refugees and host communities.

Thus, Switzerland continues to be a reliable partner for Ukrainian refugees, providing them with social and economic support.

Are you planning to change the country of temporary protection or have you encountered legal difficulties in the process of obtaining status? Take advantage of legal support! Visit Ukraine's migration lawyers provide advice and assistance in such matters. Our specialists help you to properly prepare documents, understand the nuances of migration legislation of other countries, and support you in the process of changing your place of residence or legal status. To order legal support, please follow the link.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Ihor Usyk is the Head of Legal Department at Visit Ukraine

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