The number of Ukrainians with temporary protection status in EU countries decreased by almost 69,000 people in March 2026. The most noticeable reductions were recorded in Italy, the Czech Republic, and Finland, according to Eurostat data.
The most significant outflow occurred in Italy, where the number of protection holders decreased by almost half – by more than 30,000 people.
The number of Ukrainian citizens with temporary protection status in EU countries has begun to decline. In March alone, this figure decreased by 68,980 people. This is evidenced by official data from the Eurostat statistical office.
According to the published figures, the total number of refugees in March 2026 was 4.33 million people. This is 1.6% less than was recorded in February.
It is noted that the most significant outflow occurred in Italy, where the number of protection holders decreased by almost half – by more than 30,000 people. Experts attribute this sharp decline to bureaucratic nuances: many Ukrainians have had their annual residence permits expire. In addition to the Italian direction, a noticeable decrease in the number of Ukrainians is observed in the Czech Republic - 19,800, and Finland - 8,000 people.
However, the overall trend is not unequivocal. According to the report, in 14 countries of the bloc, the statistics show growth. The largest influx of new residents was felt by Germany, where the number of Ukrainians increased by almost 7,500 people. Spain also shows positive growth dynamics – an increase of 2,665 people, and Romania – an increase of 2,125 people.
According to the agency's analysts, these changes are due to two key factors. First, active internal migration continues, with refugees moving from one EU country to another in search of better conditions. Second, despite the overall decline, the flow of people leaving directly from Ukraine does not stop.
Despite all the changes, the geography of settlement remains stable. As Eurostat data indicates, Germany continues to host almost a third of all Ukrainians in the EU. Poland confidently holds the second place, while the Czech Republic remains in third place, despite a recent decrease.
Despite the overall reduction in the number of temporary protection holders, Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic remain the main countries of residence for Ukrainians in the EU. Analysts believe that migration flows within Europe will continue in search of better living and working conditions.
Leave a comment