The Norwegian government has approved changes for Ukrainian refugees. Now, men aged 18 to 60 will no longer receive collective protection, but there are exceptions. This was reported by the Norwegian government.
As stated by the Minister of Justice Astri Aas-Hansen, Norway has already accepted the largest number of Ukrainians among the Scandinavian countries, so the country is facing an overload of the service system and a shortage of housing.
The government also emphasized that it strives for a more balanced migration policy and wants as many Ukrainians as possible to remain in Ukraine to support the state and defense.
After the changes, men aged 18-60 will no longer be subject to the collective protection program, which provides for simplified obtaining of a temporary residence permit.
Now they will be able to apply for asylum only according to the standard procedure – with individual consideration. However, according to the Migration Board, very few applicants are granted protection.
The new rules will come into force soon. The restrictions only apply to new applicants and do not affect those who already have temporary protection in Norway.
Exceptions are also provided for men under 18 and over 60; those unfit for military service, those evacuated under a medical program; and men who are taking care of children on their own.
