Ukrainian refugees will be able to retain the right to receive the status of a late immigrant
With the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, thousands of Ukrainians were forced to leave their homes in search of safety. Germany, as one of the countries that received a significant number of refugees, continues to provide support to these people. One of the important steps on this path was the preservation of the right to late immigrant status for Ukrainians with German roots. This status not only ensures a long stay on the territory of Germany, but also opens access to a wide range of social services. What does this decision mean for Ukrainian refugees and what opportunities does it open up?
The status of a late migrant: what is it
Ukrainian refugees who arrived in Germany after the beginning of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation will be able to retain the right to receive the status of a late immigrant. As reported DW with reference to the statement of the representative of the Ministry of the Interior of the Federal Republic of Germany, Juliana Seifert, this right will be enshrined in a decree of the German government.
The status of a late immigrant in Germany is a special legal mechanism created for the descendants of ethnic Germans from the territory of the former Soviet Union. This status makes it possible to return to the homeland of one’s ancestors, providing a stable legal basis for a long-term stay on the territory of Germany. For Ukrainian refugees with German roots, this decision can become a lifeline, because it allows them to obtain the right to permanent residence and enjoy all the benefits that the status of a late immigrant provides.
Status benefits for Ukrainian refugees
Obtaining the status of a late immigrant opens up significant opportunities for integration into German society for Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homeland. In particular, this status provides access to social protection, including health care, education and employment opportunities. In addition, late immigrants have the right to receive state assistance, which allows them to adapt to new living conditions faster.
What will change thanks to the new regulation
According to a new resolution of the German government, Ukrainian refugees who are of German origin and were previously unable to obtain the status of a late immigrant due to difficult circumstances can now re-apply for it. The decision is significant because it is retroactive to the start of the war, meaning that all applicants who were previously rejected have a chance to regain their repatriation rights.
For many Ukrainian families who lost everything due to the war, this is not only an opportunity to build a new life, but also a way to preserve their identity and culture in the face of forced resettlement.
Preserving the right to late immigrant status for Ukrainian refugees in Germany is an important step on the way to ensuring their rights and integration into the new society. This status gives Ukrainians hope for stability and the opportunity to build a new life in a safe environment without losing touch with their own roots. It is important to understand that this decision is not only about legal grounds for residence, but also about preserving human dignity in conditions of war and forced resettlement.
