FAQ

From August 13, 2025, new rules regarding temporary protection under §24 came into effect, significantly changing the conditions for some applicants. 

The main change is that persons who have already received temporary protection in another country can no longer obtain this status again in Germany. 

This rule now applies to everyone without exception, regardless of whether the previous country was within the EU or outside it. Previously, the restriction applied only to arrivals from third countries, but it now also applies to those who previously had protection in Poland or another EU country. 

The new provisions also cover persons who have already moved to Germany from another EU country and completed the initial verification process, but have not yet received an appointment to obtain the residence permit. In such cases, eligibility for §24 may be limited or denied. 

Therefore, before moving to Germany, it is important to consider whether temporary protection has already been obtained in another country, as this directly affects the right to further stay and social support in Berlin. 

The first mandatory step after arriving in Berlin is to contact the Ankunftszentrum (link) at Oranienburger Str. 285. This center provides initial consultations, helps with document processing, and determines the next steps. 

If necessary, applicants can temporarily stay at the center and undergo mandatory medical examinations, including infectious disease screening. Important: the center does not accommodate pets, so temporary arrangements for animals must be made in advance. 

After the initial stage, all applicants receive a referral to the Tegel center, where security checks are conducted, official registration of arrival takes place, and housing is allocated. Admission to Tegel is by appointment only, scheduled through the Ankunftszentrum, and is available only on weekdays in the morning. A special shuttle service is available to reach Tegel. 

Upon completion of the procedure, accommodation is provided if needed in municipal facilities or partner institutions working with LAF. Individuals requiring care may receive additional support when applying for relevant services. 

After registration, it is important to apply as soon as possible for social benefits at the Sozialamt or Jobcenter, depending on the individual situation. Applicants must also complete the online application for a residence permit under §24 at LEA. Access to Tegel is not possible without a referral from the Ankunftszentrum. 

More details: https://t.me/ukrainiancenterberlin/199 

Before leaving Ukraine, it is important to prepare all necessary documents and information in advance. 

Be sure to take with you: Ukrainian passport (internal and international), tax identification number (TIN), and birth, marriage, or partnership certificates. 

If traveling with children, prepare: children’s birth certificates, medical records and vaccination information, school or kindergarten documents, and permission to travel or documents confirming guardianship. 

It is also recommended to bring documents confirming education and professional experience: diplomas, certificates, employment record books, letters of recommendation, and, if possible, translations of documents into foreign languages. 

Medical documents are important: extracts from medical records, a list of medications, and information about chronic illnesses or disabilities. 

Additionally, you may need proof of your residence in Ukraine as of February 24, 2022, such as bank statements, rental agreements, receipts, medical certificates, or geotagged photos. 

Please note: temporary protection in Germany is not granted to persons who did not reside in Ukraine before 24.02.2022 or who have already received protection in another EU country. 

A biometric passport (preferably valid for at least 6 months) is required to cross the border. 

If traveling by car, prepare: vehicle registration documents, driver’s license, Green Card insurance, and documents confirming your right to use the vehicle (if applicable). 

More details: https://t.me/ukrainiancenterberlin/188