Ukraine: Embassy Closures and Government Travel Warnings

Due to the military conflict in Ukraine, many governments across the globe have issued statements regarding the safety of their citizens in the country and closed or limited Embassy and Consular operations in this jurisdiction. For an evolving list of these government announcements, please see the updates below:

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On May 11, 2022, the government of Andorra approved a decree that establishes the procedures for the reception of people displaced due to the crisis in Ukraine. Under the decree, 285 people will be eligible to receive residence permits or permission to remain in Andorra to work. Qualified individuals will need to register with the Register of Beneficiaries.

On March 28, 2022, the government of Andorra announced that Ukrainian nationals, stateless persons, third-country nationals, and their family members who resided in Ukraine before February 24, 2022, can apply for temporary protection in the country.

These individuals should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via email at consulars@govern.ad. Under this status, eligible individuals will be granted the right to reside and work legally on a temporary basis in Andorra. Permits will be issued for a period of two years. Minors will also be granted access to education.

Persons from Ukraine over the age of 16 must provide proof that they are vaccinated against COVID-19 by presenting a vaccination certificate or a recovery certificate.

The government of Argentina will grant Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members permission to apply for an entry and humanitarian visa that will allow them to live and work in the country for up to three years. To qualify, applicants must have been outside of Argentina on or before March 8, 2022.

The government of Aruba closed its airspace to Russian-owned or managed aircraft and implemented sanctions on Russian-owned aircraft registered in Aruba.

On February 13, 2022, the government of Australia advised its citizens against traveling to Ukraine. Australian citizens currently in Ukraine are advised to leave the country via commercial means. Australians who remain in Ukraine are encouraged to register their whereabouts with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The government of Australia withdrew all staff from the Australian Embassy in Kyiv. Operations will temporarily continue from the Embassy office in Lviv.

On March 12, 2022, the government of Austria announced that qualified individuals fleeing Ukraine can be granted residence under the Temporary Protection Directive until March 3, 2023. The government also published a webpage that can aid Ukrainian nationals in finding work options in Austria.

To obtain the right to residence in Austria, applicants must submit their application to the Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum (BFA). The BFA will issue an identity card to the applicant. From there, applicants can register with the registration offices of the police. Ukrainian nationals will also have to register their residence with the Austrian government.

On February 20, 2022, the government of Austria dispatched a crisis team to Ukraine to provide assistance to employees of the Austrian Embassy and assist with travel plans for Austrian nationals currently living in or traveling through Ukraine. The government requested that Austrian citizens who could leave the country do so as soon as possible.

On March 11, 2022, the government of Belgium announced that it would grant temporary protection to Ukrainian nationals, third-country nationals, stateless persons, individuals with residence permits in Ukraine, European Union (EU) nationals who legally reside in Ukraine and who resided in Ukraine before February 24, 2022, and non-EU nationals who cannot return to their country of origin. These individuals will be granted a work permit and many family members of these individuals.

On February 14, 2022, the government of Belgium advised all its citizens to avoid traveling to Ukraine. Belgian citizens currently residing or traveling in Ukraine, whose presence is non-essential, are advised to leave the country at the soonest possible date. Belgian citizens in Ukraine should register their travel information and inform the Belgian Embassy in Kyiv. For additional information, click here.

The government of Brazil has advised Brazilian citizens in Moldova to register with the Brazilian Embassy in Kyiv due to the deteriorating security situation in the country. Citizens can register here.

The government of Brazil published a government website with information on consular service points available to Brazilians in the Ukraine region.

On March 3, 2022, the government of Brazil published an Ordinance that Ukrainian nationals and stateless persons will be granted temporary visas and residence permits due to the conflict in Ukraine. The residence permit will be given for two years and will provide authorization for an employment permit.

To qualify, the individual must initiate the process with the government of Brazil after 90 days of remaining in the territory. To apply, individuals will need a valid travel document, a completed visa application form, proof of how they entered Brazil, and a criminal record certificate issued by Ukraine. Eligible individuals will have until August 31, 2022, to apply for the provisions of the Ordinance.

On March 7, 2022, the government of Brazil published a map of consular offices throughout Europe that are available for Brazilian nationals fleeing Ukraine.

On February 24, 2022, the Brazilian Embassy in Kyiv recommended that any Brazilian who can travel via their means travel to a country west of Ukraine as soon as possible. Due to security concerns and traffic delays, Brazilians in Kyiv are recommended not to leave the capital. Brazilian nationals remaining in Ukraine are advised to register their stay at the Brazilian Embassy.

On February 20, 2022, the Brazilian Embassy in Kyiv recommended that all Brazilian nationals avoid all travel to the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Ukraine. Brazilian citizens in these locations are advised to leave as soon as possible. Brazilian nationals remaining in Ukraine are advised to be aware of the possibility of future flight cancellations.

On March 2, 2022, the government of Bulgaria announced that Ukrainian nationals holding a biometric passport would be permitted to remain in and enter Bulgaria without a visa for 90 days within six months. The government has also established a web page with information for Bulgarian nationals returning to the country and Ukrainian citizens entering the country.

On February 24, 2022, the government of Bulgaria announced that three border checkpoints would be opened for Bulgarian citizens leaving Ukraine.

On February 12, 2022, the government of Bulgaria requested that all Bulgarian nationals refrain from traveling to Ukraine. Bulgarian citizens currently residing or traveling in Ukraine are advised to leave the country at the soonest possible date. The government of Bulgaria recommends that Bulgarian nationals who are temporarily or permanently residing in Ukraine fill out a travel registration form.

In response to the crisis in Ukraine, the government of Canada launched the new Canada Information Centre (CI Centre) in Warsaw, Poland, on May 4, 2022. The center will provide Ukrainian nationals with information on applying for protection in Canada and guidance on pre- and post-arrival services and support.

On March 17, 2022, the government of Canada announced the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET). Under CUAET, Ukrainian nationals will have access to an accelerated temporary residence pathway. The pathway will grant residency for up to three years in Canada. These individuals will also be permitted to apply for a three-year open work permit at the same time as the visa application. Eligible individuals include Ukrainian nationals and their family members of any nationality.

Applicants who do not hold a valid passport will still be permitted to apply and will be issued a single journey travel document on a case-by-case basis. Ukrainian nationals and their family members who are already in Canada will be permitted to apply for an extension to the current immigration permissions that they hold already or for an open work permit. The government will also waive any administrative fees associated with the program and application process. Applications can be submitted online, and biometrics can be collected at any Visa Application Center (VAC) outside of Ukraine.

Ukrainian nationals and their family members are exempt from COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements but must meet all other public health requirements for travel, including a quarantine period and testing requirements. For additional information on the CUAET pathway, click here.

On February 14, 2022, the government of Canada moved Embassy operations to a temporary office in Lviv and temporarily suspended operations at the Embassy office in Kyiv. On February 1, 2022, the government of Canada advised all Canadian citizens to avoid all travel to Ukraine. Canadian nationals currently in Ukraine are advised to leave the country while commercial means remain available and register with the Government’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service. Limited Canadian diplomatic and consular staff will stay in Ukraine to provide consular assistance to Canadian citizens. The government advised that services could become restricted if the situation escalates.

On February 25, 2022, the government of Chile announced that the Chilean Embassy in Poland and the Consulate in Warsaw would facilitate the evacuation of Chilean residents from Ukraine. The government also authorized the diplomatic missions to provide emergency passports to Chileans without travel documents. All Chilean citizens are advised to leave Ukraine as soon as possible.

On February 14, 2022, the government of Canada moved Embassy operations to a temporary office in Lviv and temporarily suspended operations at the Embassy office in Kyiv. On February 1, 2022, the government of Canada advised all Canadian citizens to avoid all travel to Ukraine. Canadian nationals currently in Ukraine are advised to leave the country while commercial means remain available and register with the Government’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service. Limited Canadian diplomatic and consular staff will stay in Ukraine to provide consular assistance to Canadian citizens. The government advised that services could become restricted if the situation escalates.

On March 17, 2022, the government of Cyprus published updates for Ukrainian nationals and other third-country nationals who are granted concessions under the EU Temporary Protection Directive. Applicants can submit their applications online through the government’s Asylum Service. The government also affirmed that the right to work would be granted to everyone without exception upon presenting a temporary protection card.

On February 28, 2022, the government of Cyprus waived the cost of PCR testing for Ukrainian citizens entering the country to facilitate more accessible travel.

On February 12, 2022, the government of Cyprus advised Cypriot citizens to avoid traveling to Ukraine. Citizens of Cyprus who are permanent or temporary residents in Ukraine are encouraged to declare their presence with the Embassy of Cyprus in Kyiv and register their contact information with the embassy. All non-essential personnel is advised to leave the country at the earliest possible time.

The government of Denmark announced that the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) would close its phone lines on Fridays for several weeks to prioritize the processing of immigration requests submitted by individuals fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. For additional information on phone hours, click here.

On March 5, 2022, the government of the Czech Republic lifted COVID-19 entry requirements for those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. These measures apply to citizens of Ukraine, citizens of the Czech Republic, or another European Union (EU) member state, and those holding residence permits of any EU member state who resided in Ukraine on or before February 24, 2022. The government also made concessions for Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and Vatican City citizens. Additional information can be found here.

On March 3, 2022, the government of the Czech Republic announced that it would stop receiving and processing applications for entry visas and long-term and permanent residence permits for Belarusian nationals.

On February 12, 2022, the government of the Czech Republic announced that its diplomatic mission in Kyiv would remain open to support its citizens and cooperate with local authorities. The Czech Embassy in Kyiv will operate with limited staff, but the Czech Embassy in Lviv will remain operating at total capacity. Some delays in visa processing are expected.

On April 21, 2022, the government of Estonia announced that their Embassy in St. Petersburg and Pskov would no longer be permitted to continue operations in Russia.

The government of Estonia will no longer issue new visas and residence permits to Russian and Belarusian nationals to work and conduct business in the country beginning April 7, 2022. Russian and Belarusian citizens who have already been issued a visa or work permit will not have their permissions revoked. Individuals currently holding these permissions will be permitted to apply for an extension in the future or change employers.

On March 22, 2022, the government of Estonia announced that it would cover the costs of expenses related to the procedure for issuing personal identification codes and granting temporary protection to refugees and individuals fleeing Ukraine applying for status under the EU temporary protection directive.

On March 17, 2022, the government of Estonia announced that Ukrainian nationals and third-country nationals fleeing Ukraine would be exempt from presenting a COVID-19 vaccination certificate when entering Estonia.

On March 16, 2022, the government of Estonia announced that it would adopt regulations to extend the period during which Ukrainian nationals will be permitted to conduct short-term work in Estonia to May 31, 2022. This option will be open to Ukrainian citizens who are not eligible to apply for temporary protection because they were already living and working in Estonia before February 24, 2022, and to Ukrainian nationals who hold short-term work authorization that expired or is about to expire.

On March 10, 2022, the government of Estonia announced that it would no longer be possible to submit visa applications to official Estonian offices based in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Pskov, Minsk, and Visa Centers of external service providers in Russia and Belarus.

Russian and Belarusian citizens will only be able to submit visa applications on humanitarian grounds or to visit family members in Estonia.

The government of Estonia announced that Ukrainian nationals would be permitted to enter Estonia visa-free. Individuals who do not hold a biometric passport will also be allowed to enter visa-free and remain in Estonia temporarily.

On March 8, 2022, the government of Estonia officially approved the temporary protection directive. The government will grant temporary protection to Ukrainian citizens and stateless people by providing residence permits to Ukrainian and third-country nationals who cannot return to their own country due to life-threatening circumstances.

The protection will allow these individuals to obtain a residence permit for one year, which can then be extended. These residence permits will be granted within a day of entrance into Estonia so long as the individual can prove that they resided in Ukraine permanently before February 24, 2022. Individuals will be granted health insurance, the right to work in Estonia, and access to primary education for children

The government is also working to amend existing laws to better accommodate Ukrainian nationals arriving in the country.

On February 27, 2022, the government of Estonia advised Estonian citizens to avoid traveling to Russia and Belarus for non-essential purposes. Estonian citizens currently in Russia are advised to reconsider remaining in Russia and return to Estonia as soon as possible. Estonian citizens that stay in these two countries are advised to register their travel with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On February 14, 2022, the government of Estonia announced that the Estonian Embassy in Kyiv would remain in operation to aid Estonian citizens leaving Ukraine. The government advised Estonian citizens to review their travel plans if the situation escalates.

On February 12, 2022, the European External Advice Service (EEAS) announced that its diplomatic missions in Ukraine would remain operational to support EU citizens in Ukraine. Staff presence and travel advice for EU citizens may be updated as the situation develops.

On April 8, 2022, the government of Finland clarified that individuals granted concessions under the Temporary Protection Directive will be permitted to begin work as soon as they have applied for temporary protection and received a certificate proving that their application has been registered with the government.

The government of Finland has established new reception centers due to the increased need for accommodations for individuals fleeing Ukraine. These new reception centers will be opened in the cities of Salmiranta and Salo.

The government of Finland published additional information for Ukrainian nationals and other individuals who qualify for temporary protection under the EU Temporary Protection Directive.

This information includes the application process:

• Qualified individuals who have arrived in Finland will need to visit Finland’s police or border control authorities and inform them of their intention to apply for temporary protection in Finland. These individuals will not be charged a fee for applying
  • The government recommends that individuals apply for temporary protection status even if they have already applied for asylum because applications for temporary protection will be processed at a faster rate
• The Finnish police or border control authority will register the application for temporary protection and make a record of the following:
  • The personal details and place of residence of the applicant
  • Details concerning the applicant’s arrival in Finland and the route in which they traveled to the country
  • Details of any family members
  • Take a photo, fingerprints, and signature of the applicant
• The Finnish police or border control authority will ask the applicant if they wish to only apply for temporary protection or if they would also like to apply for asylum. During this time, the difference between temporary protection and asylum will be explained to the applicant so an informed decision can be made. Asylum applications can also be submitted later
• Following the registration, the Finnish Immigration Service will decide on the application
• The applicant will receive a decision by mail from the Finnish Immigration Service. The decision will be sent to the reception center where the applicant is staying or to a private address if needed
  • If granted temporary protection, the applicant will subsequently receive a residence permit card
  • Any asylum application will be suspended if the residence permit is issued

Generally, the processing time will take around two weeks. It will take two weeks for the applicant to receive the residence permit card from the Finnish Immigration Service.

For additional information, click here.

On March 7, 2022, the government of Finland announced that Ukrainian nationals and other third-country nationals who have resided legally on a long-term or short-term basis in Ukraine could apply for temporary protection under the EU Directive. To be granted the status, individuals must apply to Finland’s police or border authorities.

The government is still working to create a procedure for granting temporary protections status and guidelines for all the individuals eligible for this status.

On March 4, 2022, the government of France published information on the implementation of the Temporary Protection Directive. The government outlined who is eligible for temporary protection. These individuals include:

• Ukrainian nationals who were residing in Ukraine before February 24, 2022
• Non-Ukrainian nationals who benefit from protection in Ukraine
• Family members of a person referred to in the above situations; including spouses, minor unmarried children, and dependent relatives
• Individuals holding a valid residence permit cannot return to their country of origin

Under the Directive, the government will issue provisional residence permits for six months, grant authorization to engage in professional activities (so long as a work permit is acquired), provide schooling for children, and give access to health care and housing.

To apply, eligible individuals will need to report to the government office of France closest to where they live or stay, provide any travel or identification documents in their possession, and be accompanied by any family members.

On February 13, 2022, the government of France updated its travel guidance for French nationals in Ukraine. French nationals are advised to postpone all trips to Ukraine, including trips for essential purposes. The government advises French citizens currently in Ukraine to ensure their travel documents are up to date. The French government has not yet requested that citizens in Ukraine leave the country. The French Embassy in Ukraine will remain in operation with no limitations to staff.

The government of Germany announced that Ukrainian nationals could remain in Germany until May 23, 2022, without requiring a visa. The government recommends several long-term rights to residence options for Ukrainian citizens who wish to stay in Germany after May 23, 2022. These include:

• Applying for a temporary residence permit
• Applying for a residence title for a different purpose, such as to work or study at a university in Germany, OR
• Applying for asylum. The government advises against this option for those interested in the right to employment in GermanyUkrainian nationals can begin work in Germany after they receive a temporary residence permit.

On May 10, 2022, staff members of the Greek Embassy in Kyiv returned to the city to provide essential services. The embassy will operate under regular working hours to aid Greek citizens and Ukrainian nationals.

On February 28, 2022, the government of Greece suspended the issuance of residence permits for investment purposes for Russian nationals. Russian citizens will not be permitted to renew or apply for residence permits through the Golden Visa scheme.

On February 14, 2022, the government of Greece advised Greek citizens to avoid traveling to any part of Ukraine and requested that all citizens currently residing in the country leave at the soonest possible date. Greek citizens remaining in the country are advised to register their contact information with the Greek Embassy in Kyiv. The Greek Embassy in Kyiv has reduced staff to essential personnel only. Greek citizens should be aware of possible delays in visa processing.

On March 7, 2022, the government of Iceland activated the Foreign Nationals Act No 80/2016 to grant Ukrainian nationals fleeing Ukraine similar protections to those established under the European Union’s (EU) temporary protection directive. The concessions granted under the Act will align with the accommodations based under the EU Directive.

Under the Act, individuals fleeing Ukraine will be granted a residence permit for a period of one year that can be renewed for up to three years. Under the residence permit, Ukrainian nationals will receive conditional access to the Icelandic labor market. The government emphasized that an employer must apply for work authorization for any impacted Ukrainian citizen.

The government is currently amending the provisions of the Foreign National’s Right to Work Act to ensure that a work permit and residence permit are granted simultaneously.

On March 10, 2022, the government of Ireland released updates on the implementation of the temporary protection directive. Under this Directive, Ireland will grant temporary protection to Ukrainian nationals, third-country nationals or stateless persons, individuals with residence permits in Ukraine, European Union (EU) nationals who legally reside in Ukraine and who resided in Ukraine before February 24, 2022, and non-EU nationals who cannot return to their country of origin.

Under the Directive, these individuals will be permitted to reside in Ireland for one year. This period may be extended in the future. These individuals will also be granted access to the labor market, access to accommodations, social welfare, education, and medical care.

To qualify, individuals will be required to answer basic questions concerning their needs and provide identification. The Department of Justice will grant a letter of Temporary Protection. Once the letter giving Temporary Protection is received, the individual will be allowed to participate in Ireland’s employment, self-employment, and vocational training.

On February 12, 2022, the government of Ireland advised against all travel to Ukraine and requested that all citizens currently residing in Ukraine leave immediately via commercial means.  Ireland’s Embassy in Kyiv will remain open, with a small number of essential staff remaining. The government of Ireland will contact individuals scheduled to travel to Ukraine in the coming days. For additional travel information, click here.

The government of Israel announced that hi-tech skilled foreign national workers from Ukraine would be permitted to obtain an entry permit to Israel. These individuals will also be allowed to obtain a 90-day work visa in Israel so long as they hold an employment contract with an Israeli hi-tech company. Two tracks will be available under this scheme. One is under the Law of Return for persons of Jewish descent, and another is available for individuals who are not eligible under the Law of Return.

On February 15, 2022, the government of Israel announced that travelers arriving on emergency evacuation flights from Ukraine could temporarily enter the country without pre-flight COVID-19 testing. These exceptions will also apply to travelers who transfer flights. Upon arrival, travelers will instead be required to undergo PCR testing at Ben Gurion International airport.

The government of Japan announced that it would provide aid to Ukrainian nationals holding residence permits in Japan to ensure they can remain in the country. Ukrainian citizens who have written deportation orders will not be forced to leave Japan. Ukrainian nationals should contact the nearest Regional Immigration Service Bureau in Japan to remain in the country.

On April 5, 2022, the government of Latvia announced that it would revoke permission of the Consulates General of the Russian Federation to operate in the cities of Daugavpils and Liepaja. As such, these offices will be closed beginning April 30, 2022, and the diplomatic staff of the consulates will be required to leave Latvia.

On March 3, 2022, the government of Latvia announced that its consular services in Minsk, Belarus, have been suspended for an indefinite time.

On February 27, 2022, the government of Latvia announced that it would issue a long-term visa to provide the right to employment and stay in the country for Ukrainian nationals. The government advises Ukrainian citizens to carry any travel documentation when entering Latvia. However, a lack of documentation will not prevent the government from providing aid to Ukrainian nationals.

Ukrainian nationals will also not be required to provide specific medical documents, such as a vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 test when entering the country. The government has also created a government webpage dedicated to sharing information for Ukrainian nationals entering Latvia.

On February 11, 2022, the government of Latvia urged Latvian nationals to depart from Ukraine at the soonest possible date using any transportation routes, including via land and airway. Latvian citizens who cannot leave Ukraine due to exceptional circumstances are requested to register with the Consular Register or contact the Embassy of Latvia in Kyiv. The government advises against all travel to Ukraine.

On February 25, 2022, the government of Lithuania announced that Lithuanian citizens who enter Poland from Ukraine without valid travel documents should contact the Embassy of Lithuania and apply for travel documents to remain in Poland. Lithuanian citizens traveling with expired documents can apply for an emergency travel document.

On February 24, 2022, the government of Lithuania announced that the country was open to accepting refugees fleeing from Ukraine. The government is working with municipalities and non-governmental municipalities to prepare for the reception of refugees from Ukraine. Polish authorities are on standby to provide up-to-date information to Ukrainian citizens arriving from Poland at the former border checkpoint.

Refugees will be directed to registration centers in Alytus and Marijampolė, where they will be accommodated for up to 72 hours. Migration procedures and temporary accommodations will be provided during this time.

Citizens of Ukraine holding biometric passports whose national visas or temporary residence permits in Lithuania have expired will be granted a 90-day, visa-free regime immediately after the expiration of these documents.

On February 13, 2022, the government of Lithuania urged all Lithuanian citizens not to travel to Ukraine. Citizens currently in Ukraine are advised to leave at the soonest possible date. The government also advises its citizens not to visit Belarus. Lithuanian citizens currently in Ukraine are requested to register their travel to be contacted by consular assistance, if necessary. The Lithuanian Embassy will continue to perform all critical functions in Ukraine. For additional information, click here.

On March 17, 2022, the government of Luxembourg advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Russia. It stated that citizens in Russia might risk being stranded in the country for an indefinite period due to air travel restrictions.

On March 4, 2022, the government of Luxembourg published updates for Ukrainian nationals gaining temporary protection status. The government affirmed that Ukrainian citizens entering the country would not need to apply for a work permit to take up employment in the country and instead can be hired and employed under statutory employment contracts, subject to the provisions of the Labor Code.

On February 12, 2022, the government of Luxembourg released an updated travel advisory for Ukraine. The government strongly discourages any trips to Ukraine. Luxembourg nationals and residents currently residing in Ukraine, whose presence is not absolutely necessary, are advised to leave the country. All Luxembourg nationals remaining in Ukraine are advised to register their stay.

On April 29, 2022, the government of the Netherlands announced that a small number of embassy staff would return to Kyiv to provide humanitarian assistance. The Dutch embassy will not reopen, and individuals requiring consular aid will need to contact the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On April 19, 2022, the government of the Netherlands announced that a small number of embassy staff would return to Lviv to continue diplomatic services in Ukraine. Consular assistance of the Dutch embassy in Ukraine will remain closed for the time being. Individuals should continue to contact the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs for urgent matters.

On February 28, 2022, the government of the Netherlands announced that the Ukrainian Embassy team would be relocated to the town of Jaroslaw on the Polish border. The temporary embassy will continue to perform operational duties and assist Dutch nationals seeking to leave Ukraine. If necessary, the team will cross the Ukraine-Poland border to help assist Dutch citizens in Ukraine.

Dutch nationals are advised to leave Ukraine immediately or seek a safe shelter if unable to escape.

On February 27, 2022, the government of the Netherlands advised all travelers to avoid traveling to Russia. Travelers who remain in Russia are advised to register their travel to be reached in case of emergencies.

February 24, 2022, the government of the Netherlands advised all Dutch nationals to avoid travel to Ukraine. All Dutch citizens currently in Ukraine are advised to leave the country or find a place of shelter. The Dutch authorities are presently not evacuating people. The government has designated Lviv as a meeting point for Dutch nationals and requested that individuals remaining in the country register their stay. The Lviv office will provide emergency aid by issuing emergency visas, travel documents, and passports. For additional information on the meeting point in Lviv, click here.

On February 15, 2022, the government of the Netherlands requested that all Dutch nationals leave Ukraine. Most embassy personnel have left Ukraine, and limited staff will remain at the embassy in Kyiv. The government has designated Lviv as a meeting point for Dutch nationals and requested that Dutch citizens remaining in the country register their stay. The Lviv office will provide emergency aid by issuing emergency visas, travel documents, and passports. For additional information on the meeting point in Lviv, click here.

The government of New Zealand announced that applications for the 2022 Special Ukraine Visa will remain open for 12 months beginning March 15, 2022. New Zealand citizens will be permitted to sponsor family members from Ukraine for temporary status.

To qualify, New Zealand citizens will need to complete an expression of interest (EOI) and nominate their family members. Ukrainian nationals already in New Zealand when their family member nominates them will be permitted to apply for the temporary status. Ukrainian citizens outside of the country or who cannot apply for themselves will be entitled to allow their family members to apply on their behalf.

Eligible Ukrainian applicants for the 2022 Special Ukraine Visa must have family members in New Zealand. Eligible family members in New Zealand include:

• Parents
• Grandparents
• Siblings
• Adult Children

These individuals must also be:

A New Zealand citizen or the holder of a current residence class visa

• Be ordinarily resident in New Zealand
• Have been born in Ukraine, or have held citizenship or been a permanent resident in Ukraine before becoming a citizen of New Zealand
• Be an acceptable sponsor for a temporary visa

The visa will be granted for a period of two years with the ability for adults to work in New Zealand and for children aged 18 and under to study in New Zealand.

On March 8, 2022, the government of New Zealand announced that it would allow Ukrainian nationals in New Zealand who have visas that will expire at the end of the year to remain in the country for an additional 12 months.

The government will also permit Ukrainian nationals who hold a valid visa for New Zealand but are out of the country to enter without waiting for the border to reopen. These individuals must adhere to the COVID-19 health requirements before entry.

On March 11, 2022, the government of Norway enacted a scheme to offer temporary collective protection for one year to people displaced from Ukraine. The plan will primarily cover Ukrainian citizens who resided in Ukraine before February 24, 2022, and third-country nationals and stateless people who have received national or international protection in Ukraine.

To qualify, applicants must present proof of their identity and nationality. This can be done by presenting a Ukrainian passport or ID card. Under the scheme, applicants and asylum seekers will be granted a permit as a member group rather than an individual assessment of each individual’s case. The permit will be given for a period of one year and allow the individual to work and bring their family to Norway.

On February 28, 2022, the government of Norway published information for Russian citizens currently in the country and those wishing to apply for a visa for Norway. Russian citizens currently in Norway, with a visa or temporary residence permit that is about to expire, are allowed to remain in Norway if they can provide proof that they cannot return to Russia due to canceled flights or travel options. Russian nationals who cannot return to Russia once their visa or temporary residence permit has expired must seek other return travel options, such as land travel.

Alternatively, the government of Norway will allow Russian nationals holding a permanent residence permit for Norway to apply for Norwegian citizenship so long as they meet the conditions of citizenship and apply with the Norwegian authorities. Dual citizenship is allowed.

On March 9, 2022, the government of Peru advised Peruvian citizens residing in Ukraine and those who have left the country to be in contact with the Embassy of Peru in Hungary. The government is also working to provide temporary assistance for Peruvian nationals fleeing Ukraine.

On March 11, 2022, the government of Portugal approved the concessions provided under the Temporary Protection Directive. In addition, the government will also extend the temporary protections to non-Ukrainian citizens, third-country nationals, or stateless persons and their family members who benefited from international protection in Ukraine.

On February 28, 2022, the government of Portugal advised all Portuguese citizens to depart Ukraine using land borders to Romania and Moldova. The Portuguese Embassies in Bucharest, Warsaw, Budapest, and Bratislava will aid Portuguese nationals.

Ukrainian nationals can enter the Philippines under irregular entry without a valid passport, travel documents, or an entry visa. Under irregular entry, foreign nationals will be assessed by the immigration authorities of the Philippines. The government will determine whether the Ukrainian national qualifies as an asylum seeker and, if approved, the individual will be granted an asylum application.

Applicants will be required to provide any documents needed to support the asylum claim and undergo an interview. Approved asylum seekers will be issued appropriate visa and identification documents. Individuals will also need to acquire a paper-based Alien Certificate of Registration (ARC) or ARC Identity Card from the Immigration Bureau office.

For more information, click here.

On March 12, 2022, the government of Poland signed a law to aid Ukrainian citizens. Under this law, Ukrainian citizens who fled Ukraine due to the conflict will be permitted to stay in Poland for 18 months legally. Additionally, these individuals will be assigned a Universal Electronic System for Registration of the Population (PESEL) number to access public services. The government also asserted that Ukrainian nationals would be allowed to work in Poland.

On February 26, 2022, the government of Poland advised against all travel to Belarus and Russia due to increased tension and war events in the region. Polish citizens remaining in Belarus or Russia are advised to:

• Register in the Odyseusz system
• Monitor for updates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Keep essential travel documents nearby

On February 24, 2022, the government of Poland advised against any travel to Ukraine and urged any Polish citizens staying in Ukraine to leave immediately. Polish citizens currently in Ukraine are advised to register their stay and monitor the Ministry of Foreign Affairs statements. At a press conference, the Ministry of Interior and Administration announced that Poland plans to accept refugees from Ukraine, confirming that reception points are being opened in Podkarpackie and Lublin Province.

On February 19, 2022, the government of Poland advised against travel to Ukraine, explicitly advising against travel to several regions, including Crimea. Polish nationals who remain in Ukraine are advised to register their stay and monitor for updates from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs on an ongoing basis.

On March 11, 2022, the government of Portugal approved the concessions provided under the Temporary Protection Directive. In addition, the government will also extend the temporary protections to non-Ukrainian citizens, third-country nationals, or stateless persons and their family members who benefited from international protection in Ukraine.

On February 28, 2022, the government of Portugal advised all Portuguese citizens to depart Ukraine using land borders to Romania and Moldova. The Portuguese Embassies in Bucharest, Warsaw, Budapest, and Bratislava will aid Portuguese nationals.

On February 24, 2022, the Romanian Border Police increased surveillance at the Romanian borders. Romanian border crossings remain fully equipped and have added additional staff at some locations.

On March 17, 2022, the government of Russia announced that travelers from Belarus would be permitted to enter Russia without undergoing COVID-19-related entrance requirements. Travelers from Belarus will be allowed to cross the border between Russia and Belarus for essential and non-essential purposes.

On February 13, 2022, the government of Singapore advised all Singaporean citizens to leave Ukraine as soon as possible via commercial means. The government of Singapore does not have an established diplomatic mission in Ukraine and recommends that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) not be able to assist a Singaporean’s departure if conflict were to occur. Singaporeans currently in Ukraine should register with the MFA at the soonest possible date.

As of March 10, 2022, the government of Slovenia will offer temporary protection to persons displaced from Ukraine due to the military invasion. For additional information on qualified individuals, click here.

To be granted temporary protection in Slovenia, the individual must:

• Declare that they intend to apply for temporary protection upon entry into Slovenia
• Complete an application for a temporary protection form and submit the form to the police in Slovenia
  • Present any evidence that is relevant to the application, if available. This can include biometric passports, travel documents, and more
• The government of Slovenia will review and make decisions regarding the application

Individuals granted protection will receive a card that serves as a valid temporary residence permit for Slovenia.

Ukrainian nationals and other individuals protected under the Temporary Protection Directive who live in Slovenia will also be permitted to apply for temporary protection.

For additional information, click here.

The following individuals qualify to receive temporary protection status in Spain:

• Individuals who left Ukraine on or after February 24, 2022, and their family members
• Ukrainian nationals who resided in Spain before February 24, 2022, and can no longer return to Ukraine as a result of the crisis and their family members
• Third-country nationals who held legal residence in Ukraine before February 24, 2022, who cannot return to their country of origin, OR
• Children under the age of 18 who hold a legal relationship to any of the groups described above

The application for temporary protected status must be made in person at one of the established receiving centers throughout Spain. This includes specific police stations, reception centers, and assignment centers based in the cities of Madrid, Barcelona, and Alicante.

The applicant will receive a receipt confirming their status under the Temporary Protection Directive and will be permitted to remain in Spain.

On March 9, 2022, the government of Spain launched a streamlined system for providing displaced persons from Ukraine with access to the temporary protections provided under the EU Temporary Protection Directive.

To be granted these protections, displaced persons fleeing Ukraine will need to report to the National Police of Spain, where their identification data and other information will be collected. Translators will be made available to anyone who needs support. From there, these individuals will be issued a receipt accrediting their request for protection and assigned a foreign national ID number (NIE). These individuals will also be granted residence and work permits for Spain.

On February 21, 2022, the Sri Lanka Embassy in Ankara, concurrently accredited to Kyiv, requested that all Sri Lankan nationals in Ukraine remain in close contact with the embassy and exercise vigilance. All Sri Lankan citizens are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Ukraine.

On February 21, 2022, the Sri Lanka Embassy in Ankara, concurrently accredited to Kyiv, requested that all Sri Lankan nationals in Ukraine remain in close contact with the embassy and exercise vigilance. All Sri Lankan citizens are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Ukraine.

Effective April 26, 2022, the government of Sweden announced that groups of people granted residence permits through the concessions of the Temporary Protection Directive would be expanded to include individuals who left Ukraine between October 20, 2021, and February 23, 2022. The government stated that this decision was made to aid affected individuals who can no longer return to Ukraine.

The government of Sweden announced that people who have fled from Ukraine since February 24, 2022, can be granted a residence permit with temporary protection. The residence permit will initially be valid until March 4, 2023, with the possibility of extending it for another two years. These individuals will also be granted a work permit to work in Sweden. The government will also provide individuals protected under the Temporary Protection Directive access and registration in Sweden’s jobseeker application.

On February 14, 2022, the government of Switzerland updated its travel advice for Ukraine. Swiss citizens have been advised not to travel to Ukraine for tourism or any other non-urgent reasons. Travel of any nature is not recommended for some areas of Ukraine. The government stated that Swiss nationals living in the country could decide whether to leave or remain in Ukraine. The Swiss Embassy in Kyiv will stay open and continue to carry out its diplomatic and consular functions.

The authorities of Taiwan announced that Ukrainian family members of Taiwanese nationals (ROC) and Ukrainian citizens holding an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) who are currently residing in Taiwan would be eligible to apply for a special entry permit for their Ukrainian relatives to visit Taiwan.

Ukrainian relatives will also be required to apply at a ROC overseas mission. During the application process, the individual must present a valid Ukrainian passport and proof of relationship to a Taiwanese national or Ukrainian holding an ARC and currently residing in Taiwan.

On February 12, 2022, the authorities of Taiwan advised travelers to avoid traveling to Ukraine due to increased security concerns. The authorities advised all Taiwanese nationals in Ukraine to leave the country at the soonest possible date.

On February 24, 2022, the government of Ukraine temporarily closed the airspace of Ukraine for civil aviation due to high-security risks. Citizens of Ukraine who are currently abroad are recommended to remain in their current residence, monitor for further developments, and register their stay with the relevant diplomatic mission abroad.

On April 12, 2022, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government announced that eligible Ukrainian nationals would be permitted to apply for a residency visa that will be granted for one year. Ukrainian citizens must have been in the UAE before February 23, 2022, to qualify. They must be able to provide a copy of their passport that is valid for at least six months, a medical report, and health insurance. Applicants can submit their applications by clicking here.

The United Kingdom (UK) government launched a “Home for Ukraine” scheme that will allow UK nationals, charities, community-based groups, and businesses to sponsor Ukrainian citizens fleeing the war in Ukraine. This will enable Ukrainian nationals without family ties in the UK to enter the country. Applications for the scheme will open on March 18, 2022.

On March 14, 2022, the government of the UK launched the initial website that will allow sponsors to record their interests ahead of Phase One of the scheme.

On March 10, 2022, the United Kingdom (UK) government announced additional measures to simplify the Ukrainian Family Scheme. Beginning March 15, 2022, Ukrainian passports holders will no longer be required to attend in-person appointments to submit fingerprints and facial verification before arriving in the UK. The government will also confirm permission to travel to the UK, allowing most applications to be completed online without visiting a visa application center.

Applicants who apply online will be granted a visa for six months, which will allow them to work, study, and claim benefits in the UK immediately. Once biometric data is submitted, these individuals’ stay will be extended to 36 months.

On February 24, 2022, the United Kingdom (UK) government temporarily relocated the British Embassy in Kyiv operations to Lviv. However, in-person consular services will be minimal.

On February 17, 2022, the United Kingdom (UK) government announced that non-British family members of British nationals currently in Ukraine are eligible to apply for a family migration visa for no cost online. To qualify, the British family member must be:

• A spouse or civil partner
• An unmarried partner (you must have been living together in a relationship for at least two years)
• A parent for applicants under the age of 18
• A child under the age of 18
• A dependent adult relative

Applicants will need to apply to the UK Visa and Immigration office and receive confirmation. Individuals in Ukraine can also apply through a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in the nearby countries of Poland, Romania, Hungary, or Moldova.

On February 11, 2022, the United Kingdom (UK) government advised all British nationals to leave Ukraine immediately via any commercial means. The government also requested that British citizens avoid traveling to the country.  The government of the UK withdrew some embassy staff and their dependents from Kyiv. The British Embassy in Kyiv will remain open but will not provide in-person consular assistance. British nationals staying in Ukraine should keep their travel documents up to date, register their travel, and continue to monitor government and media-related travel advice.