Switzerland aligns Ukrainian protection rules more closely with EU

Switzerland has extended temporary protection status S for Ukrainians until March 4, 2028, while introducing stricter rules for some applicants starting August 20. The Swiss Federal Council approved the change on August 19, deeming status S the most suitable for protecting Ukrainians while minimizing strain on the country's asylum system.

Given the lack of prospects for a lasting ceasefire in Ukraine, the extension aims to provide greater certainty for displaced Ukrainians, local authorities, and employers over the next 18 months. Starting August 20, status S will be granted only to applicants who have fulfilled any military obligations they may have in Ukraine, affecting applications submitted from that date.

Switzerland's decision aligns its approach with the European Union, which extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 4, 2028, on July 30, and tightened eligibility rules. Protection under EU rules is now only available to applicants who comply with applicable military obligations in Ukraine, primarily impacting those of conscription age, reservists, and voluntary military enlistees.

The EU extended temporary protection on July 30, changing eligibility rules for applicants subject to Ukrainian military obligations. EU officials justified the change for men of mobilization age as Ukraine's "legitimate needs" to defend itself. Several EU countries have also tightened requirements at the national level, such as Germany halting automatic temporary protection for arriving Ukrainian men of mobilization age unless they can prove legal departure from Ukraine or exemption from military service.

Switzerland is not bound by EU decisions but aligning its practice with the bloc benefits the country. The EU and Switzerland's changes are not the first restrictions on status S. Since November 2025, the status has generally been granted only to those whose last residence was in Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories or affected by hostilities.

Additionally, special support measures for Ukrainians with status S will continue through March 4, 2028.