Foreign Nationals Seek Asylum and Residency: A Closer Look
Nataliia Naumenko, head of the State Migration Service, outlined the situation regarding applications for refugee status, permanent residence, and temporary residence from January through April 2026. During this period, 16 applications representing 19 individuals were submitted for refugee status or supplementary protection. Additionally, more than three thousand foreign nationals and stateless persons applied for permanent residence permits, while 7,600 people sought temporary residence permits.
Key Drivers and Future Projections
Family reunification stands as the primary reason for seeking residency permits, according to Naumenko. She stated that
“since the start of the year, just over three thousand foreign nationals and stateless persons have applied for permanent residence permits, and 7,600 for temporary residence permits. Today, the main basis for obtaining a permanent or temporary residence permit is family reunification.”
Furthermore, by the end of 2025, the total number of refugees and individuals with supplementary protection reached 2,378 people—a figure that has “remained virtually unchanged in recent years,” Naumenko noted. As of late February 2026, 4.4 million Ukrainians with temporary protection were living in European Union countries, a number that increased by 22,415 people in just one month. Projections indicate that under a fragile peace scenario, 2.9 million Ukrainian refugees would remain in Europe, representing 56% of the current total. If hostilities continue, 99% of refugees—or 5.16 million people—could stay in Europe.
This data highlights the ongoing significance of refugee and migrant dynamics in Ukraine and across Europe, as many Ukrainians continue seeking safe havens due to armed conflict. The rising number of residency applications, particularly for family reunification, reflects persistent social and economic challenges faced by both Ukrainians and foreigners in Ukraine. These trends are likely to shape future migration and integration policies.
As the situation for Ukrainian refugees evolves, the spread of misinformation regarding migrants has become increasingly concerning. This disinformation can impact public perception and policy decisions, making it crucial to stay informed about the realities facing those seeking refuge and residency in Europe.