Temporary Protection Status (Laikina apsauga)

Temporary protection is a group-based emergency status implemented in Lithuania in accordance with the EU Council Directive 2001/55/EC. It was activated to provide immediate, collective protection to displaced persons fleeing the war in Ukraine. This mechanism fills a critical gap by bypassing the lengthy individual asylum procedure, offering a streamlined, fast-tracked legal pathway for large numbers of people arriving simultaneously due to mass displacement, ensuring they have immediate access to residency, work, and social services.

This status is specifically for Ukrainian citizens, persons with international protection in Ukraine, and their family members who were residing in Ukraine before February 24, 2022. It is distinctive for its group-based approach, which simplifies the administrative burden for both the applicant and the state. Applicants must provide proof of residence in Ukraine prior to the specified date. It grants a temporary residence permit, allowing individuals to live, work, and access healthcare and education in Lithuania without needing to undergo standard, individual-based asylum processing.