France eases rules for Ukrainians: Legal work, benefits, and more freedoms
Ukrainian refugees in France (Photo: Getty Images)
France has broadened the rights of Ukrainians residing in the country under temporary protection. Refugees from Ukraine will now receive enhanced rights and additional support, reports Visit Ukraine.
France has taken a significant step toward supporting Ukrainians who have found temporary refuge in the country due to the ongoing war. The French government has approved Bill No. 596, which considerably expands the rights and opportunities of individuals with temporary protection status. The legislation has already received backing from both chambers of parliament.
What will change for Ukrainians in 2025
Easier access to medical Jobs. Ukrainian healthcare workers will be able to practice their profession without going through complex diploma recognition procedures. The new law introduces the status of a practitioner associate, which allows specialists from outside the EU to work legally in French medical institutions. This change opens the door for thousands of qualified doctors to apply their skills and continue their professional careers in France.
Social support for vulnerable groups. For the first time, Ukrainians under temporary protection in France will gain access to social benefits that were previously reserved for recognized refugees. These include:
- disability allowance (AAH);
- personalized assistance for the elderly (APA);
- housing support and minimum social benefits.
€328 million in budget support. France has allocated significant funding to:
- provide housing for Ukrainian refugees;
- assist in finding rental accommodations;
- support integration programs and social assistance services.
“Normal residency” status. The new law grants Ukrainians with temporary protection a status equivalent to normal residency. This change allows them to:
- take the French driving test;
- legally register Ukrainian vehicles in France without exchanging their driver's license.
Why this matters
Since the introduction of temporary protection in March 2022, millions of Ukrainians have been able to legally reside in EU countries. However, many have faced challenges finding employment, lacked access to social guarantees, and struggled to adapt to new environments. The new French law aims to address these issues and promote deeper integration for Ukrainians seeking safety and stability.
The next phase involves implementing the law, launching pilot programs, and further simplifying administrative procedures. Among the potential upcoming changes:
- extension of document validity to six months, following the German model;
- simplified procedures for delegating parental rights;
- expansion of French language courses for professional integration.
France is setting an example of a humane and forward-thinking approach to Ukrainian refugees, not just as a gesture of solidarity, but as the foundation for a new model of support in response to humanitarian crises.
