Lithuania extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until 2026

The government of Lithuania made an important decision for Ukrainians who found refuge in this country because of the war started by Russia. Ukrainian refugees received an additional year of temporary protection, which will allow them to stay in Lithuania until March 4, 2026. This decision has a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people who have been forced to flee their homes and seek safe haven abroad.
So far, temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees in Lithuania has been established until March 4, 2025. However, the government decided to extend this term for another year, which will make administrative procedures for refugees and employees of migration services much easier. As stated in the submission of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Lithuania, such an extension will reduce the administrative burden on individuals and employees of the Migration Department, as well as facilitate the process of replacing temporary residence permits when they expire.
According to the Migration Department, every day in Lithuania 30-40 people register for a temporary residence permit. This shows that the need for such protection remains relevant, and the government’s decision meets the real needs of Ukrainians who are currently in the country.
Today, more than 44,300 Ukrainian refugees enjoy temporary protection in Lithuania. This status allows them to legally live in the country, work, receive medical care, education for children, and access to housing. The collective protection provided by the European Union ensures basic rights and freedoms for these people, which is an important step in ensuring their well-being during their forced stay abroad.
In June 2024, the Council of the European Union decided to extend temporary protection for more than 4 million Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2026. This decision covers all EU member states, and Lithuania, as part of this union, is also obliged to follow this decision. According to Eurostat, as of May 31, 2024, 4.3 million Ukrainians who left Ukraine due to the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation enjoyed the status of temporary protection in the countries of the European Union.
The extension of temporary protection gives Ukrainians in Lithuania more confidence in their future, because they can plan their lives for a longer period, in particular, consider the possibility of permanent residence in the country, find a stable job and provide for their families. It also means that Lithuania continues to support Ukrainian refugees in a difficult time for them, creating conditions for their integration into Lithuanian society.
In addition, the extension of the term of temporary protection reduces the pressure on the migration services of Lithuania, which will be able to more efficiently process new applications from Ukrainians and other foreigners. This decision is also part of the pan-European strategy to support Ukrainians affected by the war and demonstrates the solidarity of European countries in helping refugees.
In light of these events, it is important that Ukrainians in Lithuania know their rights and opportunities, particularly regarding employment, receiving medical care and other services they can receive on the basis of temporary protection. This will help them better adapt to life in a new country and provide themselves and their families with decent conditions for further life.