On Friday 29 November 2024, Luxembourg's Ministry of Home Affairs, through the General Department of Immigration, announced it extended the temporary protection regime for individuals fleeing the war in Ukraine by one year.

Originally set to expire on 4 March 2025, it will now remain in effect until 4 March 2026.

As part of this extension, the format of the document confirming temporary protection status is being updated. Beneficiaries will now receive a biometric card instead of the previous paper-based certificate. This change applies both to current beneficiaries and those arriving in Luxembourg after 5 December 2024.

For current beneficiaries

Individuals holding the current paper certificate can continue using it until it expires on 4 March 2025. In the coming weeks, they will receive a letter outlining the steps to renew their temporary protection status and obtain the new biometric card. For logistical reasons, these letters will be sent in batches between 29 November 2024 and 7 February 2025.

For New Beneficiaries Arriving After 5 December 2024

New arrivals will need to start the process of obtaining a biometric card as soon as they are granted temporary protection. Until the card is issued, they will receive a secure paper certificate valid for two months to confirm their status.

The new biometric card does not alter the rights associated with temporary protection. However, it is not an identity document or residence permit under the modified law of 29 August 2008, on the free movement of persons and immigration. The card explicitly indicates "temporary protection" under the category section.

For more details on applying for or renewing temporary protection, visit the official government portal at: https://guichet.public.lu/en/citoyens/immigration/ukraine/protection-temporaire-ukraine.html