Ukrainian citizens are increasingly applying for asylum in EU countries. Find out why the number of applications is growing and which countries are receiving the most applications
An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside Ukraine
In the first half of 2025, Ukrainians began to apply for asylum in European Union countries more frequently. In six months, almost 16,000 applications were recorded, which is 29% more than in the same period last year. This is evidenced by data from the EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA).
Why is the number of asylum applications from Ukrainians increasing?
According to the news agency dpa, the reason for this increase is the desire of Ukrainians to obtain the right to long-term residence in EU countries.
Currently, Ukrainian citizens enjoy protection under the EU Temporary Protection Directive, which guarantees them legal residence, access to social services, healthcare, and education. At the same time, temporary status is valid for a limited period, and many Ukrainians see obtaining asylum seeker status as a way to secure a more stable future for themselves.
Recently, Ukrainians have been particularly active in submitting applications in France, which is one of the leaders in terms of the number of applications.
Read also: Almost all Ukrainians living in the EU are not eligible for citizenship there — why?
The overall situation with asylum in the EU
Despite the increase in the number of applications from Ukrainians, the total number of applications in EU countries in the first half of 2025 decreased by 23% compared to the same period last year — 399,000 applications were recorded.
The largest decrease was observed among Syrian citizens — by two-thirds, to 25,000 applications.
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Who submits the most asylum applications
In the first half of 2025, the largest number of applications in EU countries were submitted by:
● Venezuelans — 49,000;
● Afghans — 42,000;
● Ukrainians — almost 16,000.
Read also: The number of Ukrainians with temporary protection in Europe has increased again
Top 5 countries by number of applications
European countries with the highest number of asylum applications in January-June 2025:
● France — 78,000;
● Spain — 77,000;
● Germany — 70,000;
● Italy — 64,000;
● Greece — 27,000.
These figures indicate an uneven distribution of the burden between EU countries and the priorities of the applicants themselves.
What this means for Ukrainians
For Ukrainians residing in the EU, the main challenge remains the issue of stability and duration of legal status. Temporary protection has been extended, but it does not guarantee a permanent right of residence. Therefore, some Ukrainians are looking for ways to legalize their status in Europe for a longer stay.
At the same time, it is important to remember that obtaining asylum seeker status is a complex and lengthy procedure that does not always end with a positive decision. Therefore, before submitting an application, it is important to weigh all the pros and cons. To consult on options for legalization in your situation, contact Visit Ukraine’s immigration lawyers.
In addition to legal issues, security and insurance remain important aspects. Ukrainians who travel or temporarily reside abroad often face requirements for medical insurance. To feel protected, take out insurance that is valid in all EU countries. You can do this online on the Visit Ukraine portal. Having a policy will help you avoid unexpected expenses in case of emergencies and give you confidence while staying outside Ukraine.
We remind you! Temporary protection for Ukrainians 2025 continues to apply in most EU countries, ensuring the right to legally live, work, study, and receive medical care. Read about which countries provide protection for Ukrainians abroad, what rights it guarantees, how to apply for documents, and what features exist in Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, and other countries in our previous article.
Photo: EPA / ANTONIO COTRIMEPA
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Frequantly
asked questions
How does temporary protection status differ from refugee status in the EU?
Temporary protection status is granted to Ukrainians for a specified period and allows them to legally reside, work, and use social services. Refugee status is granted on an individual basis, requires evidence, and entitles the holder to long-term residence, but the procedure is more complicated and takes longer.
How long does it take to process an asylum application in EU countries?
The procedure can take from several months to a year or more. The duration depends on the country, the workload of the migration authorities, and the specific case. While awaiting a decision, applicants are granted the right to stay in the country legally.
Can refugee status in the EU help you obtain citizenship?
Refugee status does not in itself give you automatic right to citizenship. However, it allows you to live in the country legally for a long time, after which you can apply for a permanent residence permit and, later, for citizenship under the general procedure (provided that you meet the requirements for financial independence, language proficiency, etc.).
Do Ukrainians need to have medical insurance if they have applied for asylum in the EU?
Yes, in most EU countries, asylum seekers are entitled to basic medical care, but it is often limited. Therefore, Ukrainians are advised to take out additional medical insurance for travel and residence in Europe. This allows them to have full access to medical services and avoid significant expenses in case of emergencies.