Temporary protection for people fleeing Ukraine will remain in place across the EU until at least 2028. But as the extension takes effect, a new condition kicks in: applicants must now prove they have no outstanding military obligations towards Ukraine.

The EU begins applying new rules on temporary protection for Ukrainians from Wednesday. There are two key points. First, the protection scheme, activated in March 2022 and extended every year since, will be prolonged once again, this time until 4 March 2028.

Second, a new requirement approved back in July linked to military obligations is coming into force. It is not a blanket change affecting all Ukrainians living in the EU. The rule applies only to people applying for temporary protection for the first time.

Who does the new requirement apply to?

The change covers people who submit an application for temporary protection after the new rules take effect. Anyone who already received protection in an EU country and has kept that status without interruption will not see their position change. Their protection can still be extended.

In practice, the new rule will mainly affect men covered by Ukraine’s military obligations. But the legal text is not limited to a specific age group or gender. Other people may also have military duties, including those who have voluntarily taken on commitments linked to military service.

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What proof will applicants need?

New applicants will have to show that they have fulfilled their military obligations under Ukrainian law or received an official exemption or waiver.

Acceptable documents may include a passport with the exit stamp provided by the Ukrainian authorities confirming legal departure from the country, an official document proving that obligations have been met, a certificate granting an exemption from military service, or an electronic confirmation, for example through Ukraine’s Reserv+ app.

Applicants themselves should bear the burden of proof. At the same time, the EU stresses that the aim is not to create a burdensome process, but to allow authorities to quickly verify whether the conditions are met.

Why is the EU introducing this change?

The decision comes as Ukraine continues to face Russia’s aggression and its military needs evolve. The EU is trying to balance two goals: continuing to protect people forced to flee their homes while avoiding measures that could weaken Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.

The Council of the EU argues that temporary protection must continue to offer safety to displaced people while also taking into account Ukraine’s legitimate defence needs.

What rights does temporary protection provide?

Temporary protection is an emergency EU mechanism designed for situations of mass displacement. Thanks to this scheme, Ukrainians do not need to go through the usual asylum procedure and can receive immediate protection in EU countries.

The status gives people, among other things, the right to stay, housing rights, access to the labour market, healthcare, education for children and certain forms of social support, depending on national rules.

Why has the EU extended protection until 2028?

Around 4.4 million people who fled the war in Ukraine currently benefit from temporary protection in the EU. According to the bloc, the reasons for keeping the scheme in place remain valid. A safe and lasting return for many displaced people is still not possible.

Ending protection too quickly could also put significant pressure on national asylum systems. Extending the scheme until 2028 gives refugees greater certainty while allowing member states to prepare longer-term solutions.

What happens after temporary protection ends?

The extension is not automatic and will not continue indefinitely. The EU has already started preparing a gradual move away from the emergency system.

This includes helping those who meet the necessary conditions switch to other types of residence status, for example, for work, study or family reasons.

The plans also include preparations for the safe and voluntary returns of those who will eventually be able to go back to Ukraine.