Ukraine refugees face new restrictions as Czech party rolls out 'migration clamp'
Ukrainian refugees in Czechia (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Tomio Okamura, head of the Chamber of Deputies, and his SPD party have opposed a plan to simplify long-term residency for Ukrainian refugees, calling for equal conditions for all foreigners, reports Ceske Noviny.
A heated debate is emerging within the Czech coalition council over the future status of Ukrainian refugees in the country. Okamura announced his intention to block a draft resolution that would have eased the transition for Ukrainians to long-term residency this year.
The SPD’s hardline stance could significantly complicate legalization for thousands of Ukrainian families who view Czechia as a potential long-term home.
Tomio Okamura’s arguments
The head of the Czech lower house emphasized that his ministers will vote against the Ministry of Interior’s proposal. His main objection is the call for uniform rules for all foreigners without exception.
“All must meet the standard conditions, and there should be no exceptions. No foreigner should receive simplified terms compared to others,” Okamura said.
The coalition is currently working on a comprehensive tightening of migration legislation. The Ministry of the Interior is expected to draft a new, stricter law governing the stay of foreigners by May 2026.
Current conditions: who is eligible for status today
Under existing Ministry of Interior regulations, Ukrainian refugees can apply for a special long-term residence permit only if they meet strict criteria:
- Length of stay: at least two years under temporary protection.
- Financial stability: an official annual income exceeding 440,000 Czech crowns (approximately €17,400).
Civil society organizations have repeatedly criticized these requirements, calling them overly strict and accessible only to a narrow group.
Statistics and reality
The situation regarding the legalization of Ukrainians in Czechia at the beginning of 2026 is as follows:
- Total number: By the end of 2025, 393,056 people held temporary protection - about 3.6% of the Czech population.
- Demand for status: In 2025, around 80,000 Ukrainians applied for long-term residence.
- Outcome: Only slightly over 16,000 people successfully passed the review and obtained a permit.
Temporary protection currently guarantees Ukrainians access to healthcare, education, and the labor market. However, long-term prospects remain uncertain due to political disagreements within the Czech government.
