Ukrainian refugees who have found shelter in the Netherlands will receive a new special status in 2027, aimed at preparing for their return to Ukraine. Details regarding support for Ukrainian citizens after the current European program ends are expected to be determined during discussions of the spring budget memorandum next year.
This is reported by Finway
Changes for Employed and Unemployed Ukrainians
Ukrainians who are officially employed in the Netherlands will be required to pay their own rent for housing, as well as cover their medical insurance costs. For those citizens who do not have paid employment, there will be provisions for applying for social assistance.
Goals of the Reforms and Challenges for the Host Country
The main goal of these changes is to optimize government spending on the maintenance of Ukrainian refugees and to prevent a mass influx of applications for permanent residency through the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). Currently, there is no need to submit such applications, as a special European program is in effect, which will conclude in March 2027. The European Commission has already announced that there are no plans for its extension.
“The IND is already dealing with large queues and will not be able to process an even greater number of applications.”
After 2027, funding for the accommodation of Ukrainians is not anticipated, so the government must coordinate actions with municipalities responsible for payments and housing provision. Many cities in the Netherlands are already experiencing a shortage of places in refugee shelters.
As of today, there are approximately 120,000 Ukrainians in the country, of whom about 60% are employed. Since the beginning of this year, municipal housing placements are no longer completely free for Ukrainians: individuals with income are required to make a monthly contribution, which can reach several hundred euros.