Temporary protection in Croatia for Ukrainians

Temporary protection in Croatia

Temporary protection for Ukrainians in Croatia (Iskaznica stranca pod privremenom zaštitom) is provided until March of 2027.

Who can get temporary protection?

• All citizens of Ukraine and their families who lived in Ukraine as of February 24, 2022;

• Stateless individuals and citizens of third countries who enjoyed international or equivalent national protection in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and their family members who actually lived in Ukraine on February 24, 2022;

• Third-country citizens who had a valid permanent residence in Ukraine on February 24, 2022 in accordance with the legislation of Ukraine and who cannot return to their country or region of origin in safe and permanent conditions;

• Displaced citizens of Ukraine and their family members who fled Ukraine shortly before February 24, 2022 due to security reasons and cannot return to Ukraine due to the armed conflict.

What to do if you are not entitled to temporary protection?

All displaced individuals from Ukraine are allowed to enter Croatia. Even if they are not eligible for temporary protection, they can enter Croatia and return safely to their country of origin. However, if you do not have protected status, you cannot receive any of the social benefits and rights that this status provides. Alternatively, you can apply for international protection in Croatia.

💡 If you have been granted temporary protection in Slovakia and your relatives are in another EU country, such as Croatia, the question arises: is it possible to reunite with your family and obtain temporary protection at their place of residence? We were contacted by a client who was granted asylum in Croatia with her children, but her husband, who was in the country before the war, was denied status. In this article, we explain how to act in such a situation, when and how the family reunification procedure works, and what documents are required.

Read the full case study: “Is it possible to get temporary protection in Croatia if you left Ukraine before February 24, 2022 - Visit Ukraine lawyer explains”

What to do after arriving at the border with Croatia?

Ukrainians arriving at the Croatian border must declare themselves as displaced individuals in need of temporary protection. A passport or ID card is required to enter Croatia. If you are traveling with a minor, the police will ask you to establish your relationship with the minor, so bring the necessary documents to prove your relationship.

What rights do Ukrainians who are under temporary protection in Croatia have?

Having received temporary protection in Croatia, you have the right to:

• Stay for a period of temporary protection;

• Work without a residence and work permit or work registration certificate For mandatory health insurance;

• Basic means of living and accommodation Primary and secondary education Family reunification Information about rights and responsibilities.

Useful information for displaced individuals from Ukraine

How to obtain a temporary protective status