Temporary protection for Ukrainians in the EU lasts until March 2027, but the Council of the Union is already advising countries to prepare for its completion. Germany, which has sheltered over 1.2 million refugees, is already accelerating the transition to long-term statuses - this is a chance for employed individuals to solidify their position. This is reported by DW.
How many Ukrainians are officially employed in Germany
The German Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) assures: EU recommendations are already being implemented. The federal states have been instructed to expedite the issuance of long-term residence permits, which opens the path to permanent status. The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (BMAS) welcomes this: the status change provides stability, especially for 341 thousand employed Ukrainians - the number has doubled from 65 thousand in 2022. Of these, 55 thousand are in side jobs, while the rest contribute to social insurance.
Ukrainians are reluctant to change their temporary protection to another status
However, only 14 thousand have changed their status to work or study. Why so few? Bureaucracy slows down the process: one needs to contact the foreign office at their place of residence, provide a passport, prove financial independence, and show no criminal record.
Requirements for other statuses of Ukrainians in Germany
Here are the key steps for transitioning:
-
For a work visa: employment contract, recognized qualification, German language skills that satisfy the employer.
-
For a student or Blue Card: proof of studies or offers, waiver of temporary protection.
-
For vocational training (Ausbildung): can be combined with temporary status.
Language proficiency is checked not by the state, but by the company. Return home is only possible under favorable circumstances, with information support.
Ukrainians find it difficult to change their residence status in Germany
The story of 37-year-old Yevgenia from Bonn illustrates the problems: three years of work, but one and a half years in bureaucratic limbo.
"I am very upset about this situation, as there is no clarity about my status. Despite the fact that I prepared all the necessary documents on time - I cannot get clear communication from the migration service," she complains.
The Bonn office acknowledges the delays: applicants must prove compliance with the Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz), which requires clarifications.
Starting from autumn 2025, the Unity Hub will also launch in Berlin - the first center in the EU for Ukrainians. It will provide consultations on changing status or repatriation, addressing gaps in information. For 4.3 million refugees in the EU, including 1.2 million in Germany, this is preparation for the uncertain: the war continues, but the West is investing in integration.