EU to extend temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2027

The European Union will officially extend temporary protection for displaced Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2027. Ukrainians fleeing the war and currently residing in 27 EU countries will be able to stay there legally for nearly two more years beyond the previously set term.

This was announced by EU Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner and Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for National Unity Oleksii Chernyshov during a press briefing in Brussels on June 4, as reported by European Pravda.

The next step is formal approval of the Commission’s decision by the EU Council — both to extend temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2027 and to adopt the corresponding recommendations for member states.

Temporary protection will end after March 4, 2027. However, to ensure that people are not left without support, the European Commission will develop and propose guidance for EU countries on how to continue assisting Ukrainians who are working or studying, and how to facilitate their voluntary return home.

These recommendations will include, among other things: options for obtaining another legal status for Ukrainians who have integrated into society, are employed or studying; voluntary return in coordination with Ukraine — including familiarization trips before making a decision; the creation of Unity Centers in EU countries to support integration and return; and coordination between EU member states and Ukraine via dedicated platforms.

“Since Russia continues its unlawful attacks and the situation in Ukraine remains unstable, the Commission is proposing to extend temporary protection for those fleeing Russian aggression against Ukraine by another year,” the European Commission said.