The aim of temporary protection is to simplify the living and work conditions for Ukrainian war refugees in the EU Member States.
The Minister of the Interior Kristian Jaani said that thanks to the opportunity to apply for temporary protection, simplified residence permit procedures can be applied to Ukrainians fleeing the Kremlin terror. In most cases, the decision is made within one day. “In the past few days, several thousand people have arrived in Estonia from Ukraine who plan to stay here for the time being. In order to streamline their path to the right services and opportunities, the residence permit procedures need to be minimised. This way, the people who have recently experienced intolerable cruelties can be provided with a sense of safety and social security practically upon their arrival. With this decision, Estonia can help these people without overburdening the national asylum system,” Jaani explained.
Temporary protection can be applied upon arrival in Estonia by Ukrainians who lived in Ukraine prior to 24 February.
“It is a fast and simplified derogation procedure during which we check if the person is included in the target group. In case all requirements are met, the positive decision is made immediately and the person is informed of the time of the receipt of their residence permit. The issuance of a residence permit card can take up to 30 days,” the minister explained.
Temporary protection stands for a one-year residence permit providing the person with a right for accommodation and food, medical services, work, benefits and allowances, social services, education, language training and settlement programme.
The order will take effect on 9 March.
For the application of temporary protection at the service points, an appointment must be made at broneering.politsei.ee. For further help for making the appointment, call the police helpline 612 3000. The appointment calendar will be opened on 9 March.
Appointments will be available at six service points of the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board in Estonia. In Tallinn, there are service points in Tammsaare and Pinna streets, as well as in Tartu, Jõhvi, Rakvere and Pärnu police stations.
Next week, the Police and Border Guard Board plans to open temporary service points also at the accommodation areas where Ukrainian war refugees are currently staying. Information on the given service will be provided on site.
Service point locations: politsei.ee/et/asukohad/teenindused
