Youth aged 18-22: which country will see the most departures in 2025

In 2025, Ukrainian youth aged 18-22 are increasingly choosing Germany as their destination for going abroad, avoiding Poland as a transit hub. According to the German publication Bild, the weekly flow has increased tenfold – from 100 to 1000 individuals. Bild reports this here.

Youth aged 18-22 no longer chooses Poland when going abroad

This trend is linked to the recent lifting of the exit ban for men in this age group, prompting many to avoid mobilization. Most cross the Polish border but do not linger, heading further to Germany, where the government provides monthly assistance of 563 euros.

Germany plans to cut payments to Ukrainian refugees due to the influx of youth

Germany, which has already accepted over 1.2 million Ukrainian refugees, is facing an overload of its social system. The government plans to reduce payments for newcomers from April 1, 2026 – to 441 euros. Disputes within the cabinet are intensifying: the Ministry of the Interior is blocking radical changes, while local authorities are overwhelmed by the influx of applications.

Poland, as the main transit route to the EU, is also feeling the pressure. Some refugees settle there, taking advantage of social programs and looking for work, which burdens the infrastructure. The head of the Presidential Bureau of International Policy, Marcin Przydacz, stated:  

"Poland can no longer accept Ukrainian refugees". 

The excessive influx, according to him, exceeds the capacities for effective integration.

Experts predict: if migration continues, the EU will need joint solutions for balancing support systems.

At the end of August 2025, the Ukrainian government allowed men aged 18-22 to cross the border freely, including those already abroad. Exemptions remain:

• Civil servants and officials;

• Engaged in state service;

• Specific rules for return and re-exit.

Earlier, we reported that the Polish border service noted a significant increase in the number of young Ukrainians aged 18-22 entering the country after the Ukrainian government relaxed the border crossing rules.