Temporary protection for Ukrainians in Spain: key questions

What is temporary protection for Ukrainians in Spain?

Temporary protection was introduced by the EU Council for people displaced from Ukraine by Decision (EU) 2022/382 under Directive 2001/55/EC. It lets you live, work and study in the EU without going through the asylum procedure, but only in one EU state at a time [1][2]. In Spain, the rules are set by Orden PCM/169/2022 and Orden PCM/170/2022, and the procedure itself is described in Real Decreto 1325/2003 [3]. The residence and work permit is valid for the whole period of protection, you can work from the age of 16, and medical care is available [2][3].

Who can get temporary protection?

The categories named by the Ministry of Inclusion [2]:

• Ukrainian citizens who were in Spain before 24.02.2022 and cannot return because of the conflict, including those in an irregular situation;
• third-country nationals and stateless persons who lived legally in Ukraine on a valid residence permit (including students), if they cannot return safely;
• family members: a spouse or partner, unmarried minor children and other close dependent relatives.

How long does protection last and what changed in 2026?

The dates are taken from the preamble and article 1 of Decision 2026/1912. The decision was published on 4 August 2026 and applies from 5 March 2027, while its article 2 has applied since 31 July 2026 [1].

Under article 2, protection is granted only to people who have fulfilled their military obligations in Ukraine, with evidence where required. This does not apply to people who held protection in a member state up to and including 30 July 2026 and keep it without interruption [1]. Proof: a lawful border crossing or an exit stamp in the passport. If there is none, an official document on exemption from or fulfilment of the obligations will do, for example from the Reserv+ app. The burden of proof is on the applicant [1].

How do you apply in Spain?

1. Book an appointment. Appointments are given by the CREADE centres in Barcelona, Pozuelo de Alarcón and Málaga; in other provinces, applications are taken by designated Policía Nacional stations. Phone numbers and the list are on the ministry’s page [2][3].
2. Prepare documents proving your citizenship, your status in Ukraine or your family relationship [3].
3. Get a resguardo with your NIE number. With it you can stay in Spain and request reception support and medical care [3].
4. After 24 or 48 hours, download the resolución from the Ministry of the Interior website. It states your residence permit and, for those aged 16 or over, your work permit [3].
5. TIE: the appointment to have the card issued is booked online. Protection cards have been extended to 4 March 2027, so you do not need a new card to comply with the obligation [3].

What happens when protection ends?

The ministry’s answer: if you do not return to Ukraine, you can apply for another form of protection or a residence permit under the general rules of immigration law [3]. Since 16 April 2026, protection holders can apply for permits whose procedure starts in Spain, including arraigo and permits under Ley 14/2013 [4]. Which grounds suit you is covered in residence permits for Ukrainians. Step-by-step routes are in the route cards: work, study, family. You can have your situation reviewed at a consultation.

What we don't know

We did not find a Spanish act on TIE validity after 4 March 2027, nor an official description of how the police check military obligations. As of 2 October 2026, the Ministry of Inclusion page still gives 4 March 2027 [2]. Check the authorities’ pages on the day you apply. About the card: TIE and fingerprints in Barcelona. The whole route from padrón to card: residence permit in Barcelona on your own.

Frequently asked questions

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ReloVictory · Sources reviewed 02.10.2026 · Not a substitute for individual legal advice.