Temporary protection for Ukrainians in Czechia: extension to 2028 and new rules
Updated: 11 November 2026
Temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens in the EU is being extended, but the conditions are getting stricter — both at EU level and in Czechia. Here is what has already been decided and what is still only a bill.
- The EU has agreed to extend temporary protection until 4 March 2028.
- New male applicants with military obligations must prove they left Ukraine legally. This does not affect people who already have protection.
- The Czech amendment with stricter conditions (30 days outside Schengen, humanitarian benefit, UA-plated cars) has not been adopted yet — as of 6.11.2026 the vote was postponed.
- The Ministry of the Interior will announce the procedure for extending visas for 2027/2028 separately — follow the news.
EU decision: extension until 4 March 2028
On 15 July 2026, representatives of EU member states agreed to extend temporary protection by another year — until 4 March 2028 (previously it was valid until March 2027). Formally, the decision is approved by the Council of the EU.
At the same time, a restriction is being introduced: protection should not be granted to new applicants who cannot leave Ukraine legally because of military obligations. Such men must present a passport with an exit stamp and a document proving exemption from service or proper fulfilment of military obligations. This does not affect people who already have temporary protection.
Czech amendment: what is proposed
The government approved the bill on 25 May 2026, and the Chamber of Deputies supported it at first reading in June. As of 6 November 2026, there had been no final vote. The proposed changes include:
- Loss of protection after staying more than 30 days outside the Schengen area or after expulsion.
- Humanitarian benefit only for those who work, are self-employed (OSVČ) or registered with the labour office and stay in Czechia at least 16 days a month. Exceptions: children, students, pensioners.
- The Ministry of the Interior would stop issuing travel documents and alien’s passports to holders of temporary protection.
- For special long-term residence — a condition of having no tax debts.
- Some drivers of cars with Ukrainian plates would have to register the car in the Czech register (with a one-year transition period).
- Higher fines for illegal employment and disguised labour agency work.
Until the amendment is adopted, the current rules apply. As soon as the law passes the Senate and is published, we will update this article.
What to do now
- Make sure your passport and visa sticker are valid.
- Do not leave the Schengen area for long without need — once the amendment is adopted, it could cost you your status.
- If you work and have a stable income, check whether you qualify for special long-term residence.
- If you have a car with Ukrainian plates, prepare documents for possible registration.
Need help?
We help with renewing documents, switching to another type of residence, car registration, translations and letters from the Ministry of the Interior (MVČR).
Sources
- ČTK / České noviny — EU extends temporary protection (15.7.2026)
- ČTK / České noviny — Chamber of Deputies backs the amendment (24.6.2026)
- ČTK / České noviny — vote postponed (6.11.2026)
This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. Check the current rules before making a decision, or contact us.