Lithuania extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2028 and tightened requirements for those liable for military service
Lithuania extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 4 2028 year. At the same time, starting from August 5 2026 year, those liable for military service must provide proof of fulfilling their military obligations or a legal basis for exemption from service. Those who received this status before August 5 2026 year and continue to maintain it are not subject to the new requirements.
Lithuania extended temporary protection for Ukrainians fleeing the war until March 4 2028 year.
Starting from August 5 2026, Ukrainian citizens who are subject to military service will have an additional condition for obtaining temporary protection: they must prove that they have fulfilled their military obligations or have legitimate grounds for exemption from service. According to information from the Lithuanian Migration Department, simply lacking experience in military service does not automatically mean a refusal — it is important whether the applicant has fulfilled the requirements of military service or has a legitimate reason for exemption.
The new requirements do not apply to Ukrainians who have obtained temporary protection before August 5 2026 and continue to maintain this status. They also do not affect applications submitted before this date.
For Ukrainians who are already living in Lithuania on the basis of temporary protection, the procedure for replacing existing permits has not changed. Since October 5, Lithuania has started replacing digital permits with new ones, which will be valid until March 4 2028; no additional requirements have been introduced for such replacement. The changes primarily affect new applicants for temporary protection.