EU prepares reform of temporary protection for Ukrainians after 2027

The European Union is preparing to change its approach to temporary protection for Ukrainians after March 2027. Instead of completely ending the program, Brussels is discussing its reform and possible narrowing. This is reported by Radio Free Europe.

Temporary protection for Ukrainians in the EU: what changes are planned

Previously, the EU planned not to extend the mechanism after 2027, but due to the war and difficulties in transitioning Ukrainians to other statuses, this issue has been revisited.

The European Commission is already working on a new proposal, which is planned to be presented in May. Among the key ideas:

• possible extension of protection in an updated format

• narrowing of categories of persons covered by the program

• consideration of the region of origin of Ukrainians

• separate approach for conscription-age individuals.

At the same time, there is no final decision yet, and discussions are ongoing.

Reform of Ukrainian status in the EU: what problems have arisen

The reason for reconsidering the approach is the difficulties faced by Ukrainians in transitioning to other types of residence permits. In many countries, this has proven more complicated due to:

• high income requirements

• complex bureaucratic procedures

• lack of uniform rules in different states.

According to European officials, the number of Ukrainians able to change their status remains low, creating risks after the temporary protection ends.

Among the options, they are also considering introducing a so-called "residual status" for vulnerable categories or those who could not transition to other forms of residence.

Certain countries are already testing their own restrictions. For example:

• Switzerland has designated some western regions of Ukraine as relatively safe

• Norway has restricted access to protection for men aged 18–60

• Denmark has considered similar measures for specific regions and categories

These practices may affect future EU decisions.

Currently, the European Union emphasizes that temporary protection cannot be indefinite, thus countries are preparing a new model that will take into account both the situation in Ukraine and the capacities of European states.

It is worth noting that the Court of Justice of the European Union has allowed member states to introduce additional conditions for receiving social assistance for foreigners. This decision may also impact Ukrainians who are in the EU without permanent residence status.