Temporary Protection Directive Updates for Refugees from Ukraine

Many refugees from Ukraine have been able to make use of the Temporary Protection Directive. This directive includes an exception that allows refugees from Ukraine to work in the Netherlands for one year without a work permit. This applies to both those with the Ukrainian nationality as well as those who have a valid residence permit for Ukraine.

As of November 1st, 2022, it will be necessary for all refugees with the Ukrainian nationality who are currently working in the Netherlands to obtain a proof of residence sticker from the IND. In concrete terms, this means that people from Ukraine who are currently working based on a document that was valid on February 23, 2022 (note: these may now be expired documents), must be in possession of this sticker in order to be allowed to continue working in the Netherlands after November 1st.

Ukrainians can use the sticker to demonstrate that they are lawfully residing in the Netherlands and that they fall under the exception as stated in the European Temporary Protection Directive. As a result, they can live and work in the Netherlands until at least March 4th, 2023. Thanks to the directive, they can also claim living allowance, shelter, medical care, and education for children under 18 years old.

The national government has communicated a change regarding regulations for refugees without the Ukrainian nationality who hold a Ukrainian asylum or residence permit and fall under the Temporary Protection Directive. As of August 3rd, 2022, it is mandatory for this group of refugees to submit a valid identification document from their country of origin, in addition to their residence permit (temporary or permanent) from Ukraine, in order to work in the Netherlands.

In summary:

As of August 3rd, 2022, refugees without the Ukrainian nationality, who had a residence permit granted by Ukraine, will need a valid identification document from their country of origin in addition to their residence permit from Ukraine in order to work in the Netherlands.

As of November 1st, 2022, a proof of residence sticker will be required for Ukrainian refugees with the Ukrainian nationality. These stickers can be obtained by making an appointment with the IND. See their website for more information.

If you have any additional questions feel free to let us know or contact the IND for more specific information.