The European Union is discussing tighter rules for accepting Ukrainian refugees after 2027

The European Union is discussing possible restrictions for Ukrainians when extending temporary protection after 2027.

This was reported by Radio Liberty, citing European officials.

Among the key measures under discussion is the possible division of applicants by region of origin. As an example, officials are looking at the Swiss approach, under which some western regions of Ukraine have already been recognized as “safe” for return. This could become grounds for denying protection to people from those regions.

Another measure being discussed is restrictions for men of conscription age. One option under consideration is that protection may not apply to men aged 18 to 60, or may be granted to them only in a limited form. Similar decisions have already been introduced or are being discussed in a number of countries.

Officials are also considering the idea of “narrowing” the program itself: protection could be extended, but not for everyone — only for certain categories. First of all, this would apply to the most vulnerable groups or to those who were unable to switch to other residence statuses.

A so-called “residual status” is also being discussed — an intermediate option for people who would not meet the new criteria but would also be unable to immediately obtain a national residence permit.

At the same time, one possible scenario is that the new rules would apply only to new arrivals, rather than to those already in the EU.

The European Commission plans to present its final proposal in May. After that, EU member states will have to approve the decision by a majority vote.

Earlier, it was reported that Norway would not grant asylum to Ukrainian men who do not have a deferment from mobilization.

It was also reported that the Czech Republic wants the European Union to stop accepting refugees from western regions of Ukraine and Ukrainian men of working age.