The European Commission on Wednesday unveiled a long-term strategy for Ukrainian refugees, aiming to either transition them into permanent legal arrangements or facilitate their return home.

While the Commission will extend a temporary protection for people fleeing Russia’s war on Ukraine for an additional year until March 2027, it recommends that member countries start transitioning refugees to permanent legal statuses, EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner announced at a press conference. 

Brussels is also working with Kyiv to lay the groundwork for a gradual return of Ukrainians.

A special envoy for Ukrainians in the EU will be appointed to coordinate this process. The Commission will also support launching what it calls “Unity Hubs,” information centers run jointly with Ukraine that will provide guidance on integration and return options.

“More than anything, Ukraine needs its people, and we have to help Ukrainians make informed decisions about their future — whether that be to return home or to continue supporting Ukraine from here for the time being,” Brunner said in a press release. 

After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the EU activated temporary protection for those fleeing, granting them the right to reside in Europe. More than 4.3 million displaced Ukrainians have found refuge in the EU under temporary protection. The status has been extended since, most recently until March of 2026. 

Oleksiy Chernyshov, Ukraine’s minister of national unity who oversees refugee policy, said at the Wednesday press conference that temporary protection must remain in place “until lasting peace is achieved,” but emphasized that Ukrainians are “very needed” back home when the war ends.

Ukraine has long eyed repatriating its people who left in 2022. While some European officials warn of growing “fatigue” from refugees among host countries, other European countries are keen to keep Ukrainian refugees to boost their workforces.

Some people will decide to stay in the EU, even after the war is over, Chernyshov admitted, adding that Ukraine wants their integration to be successful.

Sarah Wheaton contributed to this report.