Czechia Considers Restricting Social Benefits for Ukrainian Refugees Amid New Migration Trends
The Czech government has announced plans to reform the social support system for Ukrainian refugees, who currently constitute a significant portion of the country’s population.
Official data shows that approximately 400,000 Ukrainians live in the Czech Republic, making it the leading EU country in terms of Ukrainian migrants.
In September alone, 13,500 temporary residence permits were issued, marking a record high for the year and indicating increasing migration flows.
The primary reason for these changes is Ukraine’s authorization for males aged 18–22 to travel abroad, prompting Czech authorities to review the conditions for temporary protection status.
As a result, there is a possibility of reducing social cash benefits, although the temporary protection, extended until March 2027, remains in effect.
The government also plans to modify social assistance conditions, leaving support available mainly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and mothers with children.
Currently, aid includes a living minimum and housing costs, which are calculated individually and provided during the first 150 days of stay.
After this period, most Ukrainians will receive only the minimal payments of 3,130 Czech koruna.
Despite potential adjustments, Czech officials assure that aid to Ukraine will continue in some form, even under a new government.
Meanwhile, dissatisfaction has grown in Berlin and Warsaw regarding the sharp influx of new refugees, while Prague seeks to balance social support capabilities to prevent excessive strain on the system.