European Council approves EC proposal to activate Temporary Protection Directive - Ukrainian refugees to obtain permit for residence, work, education in EU

The European Union has approved the European Commission's proposal to activate the Temporary Protection Directive, which will allow for prompt and effective assistance to people fleeing the war in Ukraine.

The corresponding decision was made in Brussels on Thursday as part of a meeting of the European Council for Justice and Home Affairs.

"Historic decision in #JHA right now; the EU will give temporary protection to those fleeing the war in Ukraine. The EU stands united to save lives!" EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson said on Twitter.

Under this directive, those fleeing the war will be granted temporary protection in the EU, meaning they will be granted a residence permit and will have access to education and the labor market for a period of one year with a further possibility of renewal.

"This directive offers immediate protection to all Ukrainians, as well as those who live in Ukraine for a long time. The document creates a wide range of rights: when they are in the EU, they will receive a residence permit, access to the labor market, education, health care and social insurance in the states," the European Commission said earlier.

Anyone fleeing the war will be able to enter the European Union, even without the necessary documents and with pets, however, a security check will be carried out.