Temporary Protection in Portugal for Ukrainians: Rules and Opportunities

Since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine in 2022, Portugal became one of the first countries to introduce a temporary protection program for those forced to flee danger. The program remains active, allowing Ukrainians to live legally in Portugal, work, and access healthcare and social services.

In 2025, the system has not only been extended — it has been improved. New digital solutions have been introduced, and several procedures were simplified or revised. Still, the core remains unchanged: stability and support. Below we explain how the system works now, and what you should keep in mind.

Who Is Eligible for Temporary Protection

Temporary protection is not limited to Ukrainian citizens who relocated after February 24, 2022. If you were legally residing in Ukraine by that date — even without holding a Ukrainian passport — you may still apply.

Moreover, your close family members can be included: spouses, children, parents, and legal guardians.

This applies both to those who arrived in Portugal after the war began and to those who had already been in the country but, for understandable reasons, cannot return home.

A Note for Foreign Nationals Who Lived in Ukraine Before the War

Portugal’s temporary protection scheme also applies to third-country nationals who were legally living in Ukraine before the start of the war on 24 February 2022. This includes students, expats, stateless persons, and other non-Ukrainian residents who were forced to flee due to the conflict.

If you belong to this group, you can apply for protection in Portugal under the same program. You are generally entitled to the same set of rights, including legal residence, access to work, healthcare, education, and social services. Though, you may be asked to provide additional documentation confirming your legal status in Ukraine prior to displacement.

It’s important to consult directly with AIMA or a legal advisor to ensure that your application is processed correctly, and all necessary documents are included.

How to Submit an Application

The easiest way to apply is through the SEF for Ukraine online platform. Alternatively, you can visit a local AIMA office in person. In many regions, municipalities, social service departments, and volunteer groups also help with the application process.

You’ll need to provide a valid ID document, such as a passport. If applying for a child, a birth certificate is required. For spouses, documents proving the relationship are necessary.

Once your application is accepted, you’ll receive:

• a temporary tax identification number (NIF),
• registration in the national health system (SNS),
• access to social security,
• and legal authorization to work — either under a formal contract or as an independent professional.

What Has Changed in 2025

While the basic principles of temporary protection remain stable, there are a few practical changes worth noting.

First, during your application, you may be asked to confirm your place of residence — even if you only have an informal rental agreement. This is especially important if you’re applying for an NIF, registering at a health center, or seeking social support.

Second, if you’re applying for a child, some local authorities may require a translated birth certificate or additional proof of relationship. These requirements may vary from region to region.

Another detail concerns the form of the residence document. In some AIMA offices, digital residence documents are now issued instead of plastic cards. These are fully valid, but some institutions, especially banks or employers — may not yet be equipped to accept them, and could ask for a printed certificate.

It is also possible that you won’t receive any feedback after submitting your documents. Whether to wait, reapply, or schedule an in-person appointment depends on the specific case. The key is not to ignore such delays, and to clarify the situation with the appropriate authorities if needed.

What Rights Temporary Protection Provides

The main benefit of temporary protection is the right to legally reside and work in Portugal. You can be employed under a formal contract, or operate independently — for example, as a freelancer or sole proprietor, without requiring any additional permit. Your employer must register you in the national social security system, and you will receive all the standard labor protections.

You also have access to free healthcare. To use it, you need to register at your local health center and obtain an SNS number. From that point, you can rely on a full range of services: general medical appointments, prescriptions, hospitalization, and maternity care.

Children under protection are entitled to education. You can enroll them in public schools or kindergartens. Adults may participate in free Portuguese language courses and professional requalification programs offered through IEFP (the national employment institute).

Keep in mind: for most services — including opening a bank account or applying for rental support — you’ll need to provide proof of residence. Usually, this means a rental agreement.

Status Duration and What Comes Next

According to the Portuguese government’s April 2024 decision (Resolução do Conselho de Ministros n.º 27-A/2024), all granted temporary protection statuses have been automatically extended until December 31, 2025. If you already hold protection status, there is no need to reapply.

However, if you change your address, phone number, or other personal information, it is important to update these details with AIMA — either online or in person. Failure to do so could create issues with accessing medical, banking, or social services.

When Temporary Status Is Just the Beginning

Temporary protection is a reliable starting point — but it’s not intended as a long-term solution. If you see Portugal as your future home, it makes sense to start considering a more stable legal path.

Depending on your situation, you may choose to apply for a residence permit based on employment, start your own business, prove financial self-sufficiency, or enroll in a Portuguese university. Each option comes with its own requirements, and it’s a good idea to review them ahead of time.

It’s also important to know that switching to a different type of residence status may require giving up your temporary protection. In some cases, you may need to apply for a new visa from outside Portugal. That’s why it’s essential to think things through and seek legal advice, to avoid mistakes and move forward with confidence.

How We Can Help

Whether you’ve just arrived in Portugal, are looking to extend your current status, or are ready to transition to a more stable residence, our team at Solid Sorte is here to guide you every step of the way.

We’ll help you choose the best route, prepare your paperwork, and walk with you through the entire process, from application to approval.