The European Commission has proposed ending temporary protection for Ukrainians who are not legally allowed to leave the country because of military service, while extending the wider protection scheme until March 2028.
The move, requested by the Ukrainian government, would mainly affect men aged 23 to 60 who are subject to military service under Ukrainian law, as well as some volunteers. Those applying for temporary protection would have to prove they were legally allowed to leave Ukraine.
The proposal would not affect the more than 4.4 million Ukrainians who have already received temporary protection in the EU, including more than 100,000 in Belgium. People who are no longer eligible under the special scheme could still apply for asylum through the normal process.
The temporary protection scheme was introduced after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It allows Ukrainians to live and work in EU countries without going through the standard asylum process. The Commission has also proposed a voluntary return programme for refugees who choose to go back to Ukraine.
The proposal has the support of several EU member states, which have called for tighter rules, as well as Kyiv, which says it needs more people available for military service. However, the Council of Europe’s human rights commissioner warned that any restrictions must respect international protection obligations and avoid discrimination.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner said the changes reflect Ukraine’s defence and reconstruction needs while keeping the temporary protection system credible.
The proposal must still be approved by EU member states before it can take effect.
