Finland closes 18 refugee centers: what should Ukrainians do?

Finland is closing 18 refugee centers due to a decrease in the number of asylum applications. Find out in which cities the centers will be closed and what Ukrainians living there should do

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The Finnish Migration Service has announced the closure of 18 asylum centers due to a significant decrease in the number of applications. According to yle.fi, this decision will affect about 2,200 people currently living in these centers, including Ukrainians. What should those who lose their homes do and what are the alternatives? Let's analyze the details.

Why are refugee centers being closed?

The Finnish government has decided to reduce the number of reception centers due to a decrease in the flow of migrants. In 2024, the number of asylum applications fell by 45% compared to the previous year. This is due to the fact that many Ukrainians have returned home or moved to other countries where temporary protection conditions are better.

Which centers will be closed?

The closure will take place in stages. The first 18 centers will cease operations this year. The list includes reception centers in the following cities:

● Kemi

● Pieksämäki

● Varkaus

● Järvenpää

● Porvoo

● Satakunta

● Vaasa

● Kayani

● West Uusimaa

● Liiksa

● Valkeakoski

● Forssa

● Jämsä

● Riihimäki

● Pohjanmaa

● Southwest Finland

Eight more centers will cease operations in February 2026.

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What should Ukrainians living in these centers do?

Ukrainians who will lose their place of residence due to the closure of the centers have several options:

1. Apply for residence in Finland. Refugees can apply for residence in the country if they meet the requirements of the migration law.

2. Moving to another EU country. For example, many Ukrainians choose Germany, the Czech Republic or Spain, where the conditions for temporary protection are more favorable.

3. Returning to Ukraine. If there are no other options, Ukrainians can return home.

How to change the country of temporary protection?

If you want to move to another EU country, it is important to draw up the documents correctly. The main steps are:

● Find out about the conditions of temporary protection in the desired country;

● Obtain official confirmation of the termination of protection in Finland;

● Submit a new application in the chosen country.

If necessary, Visit Ukraine lawyers will assist Ukrainians in reissuing documents and choosing the best country for relocation. So, if you are looking for a solution for your legal stay in the EU, use the services of professional lawyers who will help you to prepare all the necessary documents.

We remind you! Finland is one of the most attractive countries for emigration. This is the opinion of the whole world, taking into account statistics and ratings. Read our previous article to find out what conditions are required for Ukrainians to enter Finland, how to apply for a visa, find a job and obtain a permanent residence permit.

Photo: Santeri Viinamäki

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