On 22 October, Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) confirmed that the EU Council’s decision to prolong the Temporary Protection Directive for people fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine will be fully implemented in Germany, extending residence permits issued under §24 of the Residence Act automatically to 4 March 2028. Roughly 1.13 million Ukrainians currently reside in Germany under the scheme, enjoying unrestricted access to the labour market, social benefits, and freedom of movement within the Schengen Area. The automatic extension means holders do not need to visit local immigration offices for new stickers or biometric cards, easing administrative pressure on Ausländerbehörden that have struggled with staff shortages. For employers, the move offers planning certainty: Ukrainian staff can continue to work or take up vocational training without having to convert to regular work permits for another 17 months. Universities likewise gain clarity for the admission cycles of the 2027/28 academic year. Municipalities, however, warn that housing budgets must be adjusted upward; the Association of German Cities estimates accommodation costs will rise by €1.4 billion in 2027. Ukrainians who wish to switch to other residence titles—such as the EU Blue Card for highly qualified professionals—may still do so, but immigration lawyers advise waiting until new salary thresholds for 2027 are published in January. Those planning extended travel outside the EU should note that absences of more than 180 days could still lead to permit lapse despite the automatic extension. Berlin’s decision aligns Germany with Poland, the Czech Republic and Austria, which have already issued national decrees mirroring the EU timeline, and signals continued political commitment to support Ukraine’s displaced population even as the conflict stretches into its fifth year.
Source: Flüchtlingsrat NRW
