Norway is changing the rules for Ukrainian refugees: men aged 18 to 60 will no longer receive temporary protection. Exceptions will remain only for certain categories. This is reported by the Government Portal of Norway.
Temporary Protection in Norway: New Rules for Ukrainians
The government has approved changes to legislation that narrow the scope of the collective protection program. From now on, conscription-age men will not fall under the simplified procedure for obtaining residence permits.
Justice and Public Security Minister Astri Os-Hansen explained that the decision is related to the increasing number of applicants, especially young men, as well as the burden on social services and housing resources.
According to her, the government aims to ensure a “controlled, fair, and sustainable migration policy” and to avoid a disproportionate influx of refugees compared to other countries in the region.
The new rules provide for:
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refusal of collective protection for men aged 18-60
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consideration of applications from such individuals in the general order as individual cases
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limited chances of obtaining protection without special grounds.
Ukrainian Refugees in Norway: Who Will Not Be Affected by the Changes
The introduced restrictions will not apply to those Ukrainians who have already received temporary protection earlier. A number of exceptions have also been identified.
The new rules do not apply to:
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minors and men over 60 years old
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persons exempt from military service or unable to serve
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participants in medical evacuation programs
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men who are single parents.
The changes will take effect soon.
The Norwegian government explains that the country has already accepted the largest number of Ukrainians among the Nordic countries. At the same time, authorities expect that some citizens will remain in Ukraine, supporting the economy and defense of the country.
Recall that Norway allocates 9 billion dollars to Ukraine in 2026 as part of the Nansen Program. This financial support package includes funds that will be directed towards military and civilian needs, including ensuring energy security and air defense.