EU country updates its rules for Ukrainian refugees

Austria has officially extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2028, the country’s parliament announced.

“Protection status for refugees from Ukraine is now valid until March 2028. However, Ukrainian men subject to military conscription are no longer eligible for residence permits in Austria,” the parliament said.

The Austrian government has introduced several stricter measures that directly affect the conditions under which Ukrainian nationals, particularly men subject to military service, may stay in the country.

Under the new rules, introduced by Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, men subject to military service who violated Ukrainian law when leaving the country will not automatically qualify for protection. The restriction applies to those who arrived in Austria after July 2026.

Austria will also no longer grant temporary protection to Ukrainians who already hold equivalent status in another EU country.

At the same time, those who have lived and worked in Austria for an extended period will find it easier to transition from temporary protection to a long-term residence permit.