Lithuania extends temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine

MOSCOW. Aug 27 (Interfax) - The Lithuanian government has extended the validity of temporary residence permits for displaced persons from Ukraine until March 2026, Ukrainian media have reported with reference to the Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT.

"Until lately, protection was granted until March 2025. The government has extended the validity of temporary protection until March 4, 2026. This means that residence permits can be issued that are valid until this date," it said.

The Migration Department has said it registers 30 to 40 applications for temporary residence in Lithuania a day. Over 44,300 people currently have valid Lithuanian residence permits based on their temporary protection status.

Lithuanian Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite said the extension of temporary protection status would relieve the administrative burden on Ukrainians staying in Lithuania, as they would have residence permits valid for a longer time.

The validity of temporary protection status in Lithuania has been prolonged based on a relevant European Union decision made in June 2024.