Czechia Expands Protection for Ukrainian Refugees

Czech President Petr Pavel has signed a law extending protection for Ukrainian refugees, the official website of the Czech leader reports.  

The document stipulates that Ukrainians who have been living in the Czech Republic for more than two years will be able to obtain a special permit for long-term stay. This applies only to those refugees who are financially independent, have housing and do not use the system of social benefits for refugees. It also stipulates that their children must study in Czech schools.  

In addition, Pavel signed a law to increase criminal liability for unauthorised activities in the interests of a foreign state. He also approved a law that obliges Russians to renounce their Russian citizenship in order to obtain Czech citizenship. Now, applicants for Czech citizenship from Russia must provide proof of renunciation of Russian citizenship, except for those who have been granted refugee status in the Czech Republic.  

Earlier, on 25 June 2024, the Council of the European Union decided to extend temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until 4 March 2026. This applies to more than 4 million Ukrainians who fled the country due to Russia's full-scale invasion.