Collective Protection for Persons Displaced from Ukraine

The Minister of Justice’s decision to grant collective protection due to the mass influx from Ukraine is valid through 2 March 2027

The residence permit is granted on the basis of Article 74 of the Foreign Nationals Act

Ukrainian citizens, who resided in Ukraine before 24 February 2022. Individuals who, on 24 February 2022, had international protection, subsidiary protection or a residence permit on humanitarian grounds in Ukraine. Family members of those listed in points 1 and 2, regardless of whether they could safely return to their country of origin. For this purpose, family members are: A spouse or cohabiting partner who was part of the family on 24 February 2022. Children and stepchildren under 18 years of age. Other close relatives who are partially or wholly dependent on a person listed in point 1 or 2.

As a general rule, collective protection will not be granted if the applicant already holds: a valid residence permit based on temporary protection in an EU member state; or a valid residence permit on comparable grounds in Denmark, Norway, Switzerland or Liechtenstein.

You must be in Iceland to apply for protection. Applications must be submitted in person. You can apply at Keflavík Airport upon arrival in Iceland. If you are already in Iceland, you can apply for protection in the reception center for applicants for international protection in Egilsgata 3 in Reykjavík. If you are outside the capital area, you can apply for protection at the nearest police station.

If you meet the requirements for collective protection, you do not need to hand in your passport.

A humanitarian permit on the basis of collective protection can be granted for up to one year.

The residence permit entails the right to work in Iceland without a work permit.

A humanitarian permit does not grant the right to family reunification until after it has been extended twice. An exception to this condition may be granted if compelling reasons of fairness recommend this, due to urgent care considerations.

For the first five years, a humanitarian permit on the basis of collective protection does not form the basis of a permanent residence permit.

The Directorate of Immigration may request additional information or documentation. Every application is assessed individually.

The reception centre for applicants for international protection is in Egilsgata 3 in Reykjavik.

Opening hours are between 8:00 and 16:00 on weekdays.