Lithuania has extended temporary protection for people displaced from Ukraine until March 4, 2028. Some new applicants liable for military service must now prove they have met their obligations to qualify.
The new rule applies to applicants filing from August 5, 2026, who are required to fulfill military obligations under Ukrainian law. The Council of the European Union set the condition as part of its decision extending temporary protection for Ukrainians.
An exception covers people who received protection in an EU country before August 4 and have maintained it continuously. Lithuania will also exempt applications filed before that date if officials have not yet made a decision.
Applicants can prove compliance with documents showing they left Ukraine legally, including a border-crossing stamp. A document confirming exemption from service is also accepted. The rule took effect on August 5.
Lithuania will issue or extend residence permits under temporary protection through March 4, 2028. The Interior Ministry said 52,052 people held valid permits as of September 6.