Spain Now Lets Ukrainian Temporary Protection Holders Switch Their Residency Status

New Guidelines for Temporary Protection Beneficiaries in Spain

According to Radiotrek — Світ: On June 22, 2026, Spanish authorities approved updated rules that allow individuals with temporary protection to transition to other types of residency permits. This change is especially relevant for those who hold a valid work contract, have accumulated a certain period of stay in the country, or have established family ties. The regulations also ensure that the right to work is preserved, a critical factor for many people currently living in Spain.

Requirements for Switching to Other Residency Types

Officials from the Spanish government stated:

Holders of temporary protection can now move to other full-fledged residency categories.

The new instruction guarantees the ability to obtain official work authorization, both for employees and for self-employed individuals (autónomo). They added:

As a result, transitioning to a stable residency may depend on having a current employment contract, the length of time spent in the country, or family connections.

For those planning to leave temporary protection, several key rules must be followed:

• An application to modify the status must be submitted before the current plastic TIE card expires.
• Required documents may include valid foreign passports, criminal record certificates (if needed, with an apostille and sworn translation), and proof of integration, such as language course certificates or school enrollment records for children.

In summary, the new guidelines create fresh opportunities for temporary protection holders in Spain by simplifying the process of moving to other residency types and safeguarding employment rights. This could positively impact the integration of people seeking stability in a new environment, while also benefiting the country’s economy by supplying the labor market with workers.