Author
Refugee status is recognised with no set limit as to the length of the status afforded. Subsidiary protection is recognised for a limited time period with possibility of extension. Usually, the time period ranges from one to five years, based on the individual circumstances of the case. In 2021, 17 individuals were granted refugee status out of which 2 were women. Subsidiary protection was not granted in 2021.[1] In 2022, 43 persons were granted refugee status (4 by the Administrative Court) and 164 were granted subsidiary protection. The increase is due to the fact that Ukrainians ineligible for temporary protection are granted subsidiary protection. Out of 164 persons who were granted subsidiary protection, 158 were Ukrainian.[2]
Beneficiaries of international protection are afforded their right to residence along with the decision granting them international protection. It is expressly stated in the operative part of the decision that they have a right to residence. With the help of integration staff of the UOIM, they are then issued with an residence card, usually within five days at the latest. The card certifies their residency right and is required to access most rights. The procedure is free of charge for beneficiaries. The issued card is valid for 10 years. It can easily be renewed before expiry.
Beneficiaries of subsidiary protection are issued a temporary residence permit that indicates the duration of the status, between one and five years.[3] The card for persons with subsidiary protection can also be renewed in case of extension of subsidiary protection. Pending the extension procedure, a card with a duration of one year is issued to them. If the subsidiary protection is extended it is automatically extended for 2 years in line with the provisions of the IPA.[4] After the person’s subsidiary protection is prolonged, they are issued a new residence permit with the same validity as the subsidiary protection.
[1] Official statistics provided by the Migration directorate, March 2022.
[2] Official statistics provided by the Migration directorate, March 2023.
[3] Article 92(1)-(2) IPA.
[4] Article 66(6) IPA.