Montenegro Extends Temporary Protection for Ukrainian Refugees until 2025

by Teodora Lađić

May 2024

Since the war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, millions of Ukrainians have sought safety across borders, while many more remain displaced within the country. With the conflict ongoing, several European nations, including Montenegro, have extended generous support and protection to those affected.

As a response to influx of Ukrainian refugees, the Government of Montenegro has decided to offer the Temporary Protection (TP) regime for Ukrainians, currently valid until 11 March 2025. The TP regime applies to Ukrainian citizens, individuals granted international protection and those with stateless status in Ukraine, as well as to those who previously resided in Montenegro, if they are unable to extend their residence for any reason. All TP holders are required to visit the Ministry of Interior (MoI) branch offices in their area of residence to renew their TP certificates. 

UNHCR, in close collaboration with its partners, the NGO Civic Alliance and the Red Cross of Montenegro, as well as a network of Ukrainian volunteers organized by the Embassy of Ukraine in Montenegro, has increased its field presence to facilitate acquisition or renewal of TP certificates. 

Montenegro has been internationally praised for its commitment to protection of Ukrainian refugees. Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, the country has exemplified this ethos by welcoming more than 200,000 Ukrainians who arrived in Montenegro. Currently, nearly 5,000 individuals from Ukraine benefit from temporary protection, which affords them safety and ensures access to essential services for a dignified life in Montenegro. In addition, more than 60,000 Ukrainians registered some residence in Montenegro other than temporary protection, including short-term stay up to 90 days or long-term stay through the status of a foreigner with permanent or temporary residence.[1] While they are not perceived as refugees per se, they may end up applying for TP, due to inability to renew their residence in Montenegro or return to Ukraine. 

“Montenegro’s decision to extend the temporary protection regime for another year shows a dedicated and continuous contribution to international humanitarian goals. It is very important that refugees and stateless persons have the support of the Government of Montenegro. We are grateful that Montenegro has been so generously receiving a significant number of refugees from Ukraine and offering them temporary protection especially amidst growing global economic and security uncertainties. UNHCR will continue to be a reliable partner and assist the Government in securing adequate and equal protection and durable solutions for all those forcibly displaced persons, ensuring that no one is left behind,” said Jean-Yves Bouchardy, UNHCR Representative in Montenegro.

Many Ukrainians view Montenegro as a country that shares cultural similarities with their own culture. The Montenegrin hospitality and cultural similarity has led thousands of Ukrainian refugees to consider Montenegro as a safe second home. Montenegro, despite not sharing a border with Ukraine, has been one of the top European countries hosting Ukrainian refugees, placing significant pressure on the institutions and adversely impacting access to rights and services. The support from UNHCR and its partners has been instrumental in preventing legal uncertainty for refugees by providing essential assistance in the extension process of their temporary protection certificates. 

Iryna, a 43-year-old refugee from Ukraine, expressed her gratitude: “Montenegro is like a second home to us, and we will always remember the kindness and generosity we've received, especially during the extension of our stay. The situation in Ukraine is dire, and the end to war seems distant, but here we feel safe. My children can grow up alongside their Montenegrin peers, hoping that one day we'll be able to return to our home in Ukraine."

UNHCR and its partners continue to provide vital assistance to Ukrainian refugees, including free legal aid to ensure they have unhindered access to rights. However, as the protracted nature of their displacement continues, leaving long-term consequences, especially on the most vulnerable, UNHCR and its partners provide psychosocial services to support mental health and overall well-being, which are crucial for building a new life in a foreign country. Additionally, UNHCR is following up with the competent authorities through the Government’s Coordination Body to ensure Ukrainian refugees have access to necessary services across various sectors, including employment, healthcare, education and other.

For more information about UNHCR's work in Montenegro please visit: UNHCR - Montenegro

If you are Ukrainian and need further guidance on your rights and obligations in Montenegro, please visit https://help.unhcr.org/montenegro/ 

[1]Source: The Ministry of Interior of Montenegro and the Border Police of Montenegro