Updated Temporary Protection Regulations in the EU and Switzerland
Beginning in 2026, the European Union and Switzerland will implement new requirements for Ukrainian men aged 60 and older seeking temporary protection while leaving the country. According to EU Council Decision 2026/1912, only those who actively fulfill military duties in Ukraine and can provide official proof will be eligible for temporary protection. Although men over 60 are generally exempt from conscription, this age group will face additional scrutiny.
Required Documentation to Confirm Military Status for Men 60 and Older
To verify their military status, men aged 60 and above may need to present the following documents:
- Proof of age confirming they are 60 or older;
- Evidence of lawful departure from Ukraine;
- Confirmation that they are no longer in the military reserve;
- Proof of absence of an active military contract;
- Any other documents clarifying their military obligations.
Different countries have varying age ranges for military status checks. In Sweden, men between 23 and 65 years old applying after August 5, 2026, will be screened. Denmark will focus on men aged 23 to 59, while Slovakia covers ages 18 to 60. The Czech Republic will require checks for applicants under 60, exempting those older from mobilization proof.
Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia prioritize verifying active military duties or legality of exit regardless of age. Switzerland has not defined a specific age range; according to its State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), checks may apply not only to those eligible for mobilization but also to reservists, contract soldiers, and volunteers with military commitments.
It is important to note that if a man left Ukraine before turning 60 but applies after reaching this age, authorities may review the legality of his exit at the time he crossed the border. Documents such as deferments, disability status, removal from military records, accompanying dependents needing care, official travel permissions, or other lawful grounds might be requested. In the absence of formal paperwork, applicants will need to provide a written explanation of their travel route and circumstances. The Czech Ministry of the Interior has stated that during initial or repeat applications, they may verify electronic border crossing records (e-BOD), departure dates, and prior migration status.
With these new rules coming into effect in 2026, Ukrainian men over 60 planning to travel abroad should pay close attention to the documentation required to prove their military status and legal exit from Ukraine. These changes could significantly impact access to temporary protection across EU countries and Switzerland, each applying distinct verification procedures. Staying informed about these updates is crucial for older men to avoid complications at border crossings and ensure their eligibility for temporary protection.