From August 1, 2026, Germany has introduced new rules for granting temporary protection to Ukrainian men of conscription age. The changes apply to those who arrived in the country after July 31, 2026. Now, men aged 23 to 60 must prove the legality of their departure from Ukraine or have grounds for exemption from military service. Without such documents, they will be denied temporary protection status.
New requirements for documentary evidence
According to the German Federal Ministry of the Interior, Ukrainian men who are not exempt from military service must provide official documents confirming the legality of their departure from the country. This may be a conscription notice, a document on exemption from service, or another legal basis. The absence of such papers means an automatic refusal of temporary protection under §24 of the Migration Act.
Exceptions for Ukrainians already in Germany
It is important to note that the new rules do not affect Ukrainians who were already in Germany before July 31, 2026, and received temporary protection. Their status is automatically extended until March 4, 2028, without the need to reconfirm documents. This decision aims to ensure stability for those who have already integrated into German society.
Alternative paths to asylum
Ukrainian men who do not meet the new criteria for temporary protection may apply for political asylum. Each such application will be considered individually by the German Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. However, authorities have emphasized that the mere existence of military obligations in Ukraine is not grounds for granting asylum under German law.
Risk of deportation of illegal migrants
German authorities have also warned of the possibility of deporting Ukrainians who are in the country illegally and have no legal grounds for staying. Deportation is possible if there are legal grounds for expulsion provided by law. This is particularly relevant for those who could not prove the legality of their departure from Ukraine or do not have documents confirming exemption from military service.
Contradictory data
On the one hand, German authorities argue that the changes are necessary to comply with the principles of international law and prevent abuse of the temporary protection system. On the other hand, Ukrainian human rights defenders and some European organizations criticize these measures, considering them discriminatory and violating the rights of refugees. The European Union officially acknowledges the controversy surrounding the granting of temporary protection to men of conscription age, creating tension between participating countries.
