The Government of Ukraine has approved an updated procedure for the operation of temporary accommodation sites for internally displaced persons (IDPs). Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 728, reported by RBK-Ukraine, introduces stricter requirements regarding living conditions, control mechanisms, and grounds for terminating accommodation agreements.
Digitalization and housing standards
A key change is the ability to use digital documents for check-in. During the martial law period, displaced persons can sign agreements by presenting an e-passport, a foreign electronic passport, or a document generated in the «Diia» app. This simplifies the registration process for those who have lost paper documents or are currently on the move.
However, facility administrators are now required to conduct a thorough check of compliance with minimum housing standards before including the facility in the list of temporary accommodation sites. The agreement is concluded for six months with the possibility of extension. If a person does not have documents at the time of check-in, they are obliged to obtain them within 90 days.
Monitoring with public participation
A new system for controlling living conditions is being introduced. Now, monitoring can involve not only officials but also representatives of international organizations, public associations, and the IDPs themselves — with their consent. The results of such inspections will be sent to the heads of accommodation sites, balance holders, and the Ministry of Social Policy for the prompt elimination of violations.
Employment as a condition of residence
Special attention is paid to able-bodied unemployed displaced persons. If a person does not find employment, register as unemployed, or take other measures for employment within three months after signing the agreement, this may become grounds for terminating the contract. After the right to use the housing is terminated, the person must vacate the premises within 15 days, unless otherwise provided by the agreement.
Notice of relocation
Administrations are obliged to notify residents of the need to relocate no later than four weeks before the change of residence. Exceptions apply to emergency situations or cases where the facility is deemed unfit for habitation.
Context: aid and pilot projects
New rules are being introduced against the backdrop of other important changes in the sphere of IDP support. We remind you that thousands of families who received IDP status back in 2014 but did not relocate again after the full-scale invasion may face a refusal to appoint child benefits due to one condition.
Also, a pilot project for social housing for IDPs has recently officially launched in Ukraine: local communities will purchase vacant houses and transfer them to displaced persons. In addition, the Verkhovna Rada adopted Bill No. 12301, which comprehensively updates IDP legislation — in particular, allowing displaced persons to exercise rights regardless of registration status.
