2022-03-18-KPMG_Global-Finland_–Temporary_Protection_for_People_Fleeing_from_Ukraine_4页_330kb

Summary of Finland's Temporary Protection for People Fleeing from Ukraine

Core Content

Finland, as an EU member state, has implemented the EU Temporary Protection Directive to provide immediate and temporary refuge to Ukrainian nationals displaced by the Russian military invasion starting on 24 February 2022. The EU decision entered into force on 4 March 2022, and Finland adopted its own decision on 7 March 2022.

This directive is a response to the urgent migrant crisis caused by the war in Ukraine. It allows Ukrainian citizens and certain family members to receive temporary protection without going through the standard asylum process, which typically involves individual assessments of need for protection.

Main Points

• Scope of Temporary Protection:

  • Ukrainian citizens unable to return to Ukraine due to the Russian attack.
  • Citizens of non-EU countries and non-Schengen states, as well as stateless persons, who have legally resided in Ukraine and cannot safely return.
  • Family members of Ukrainian citizens or those granted international protection in Ukraine, provided family ties were established in Ukraine before 24 February 2022.

• Duration of Protection:

  • The temporary protection decision initially lasts until 4 March 2023.
  • It may be extended by six months at a time, up to a maximum of three years.
  • If the situation allows safe return, the EU may end the protection earlier.

• Rights of Beneficiaries:

  • Right to reside in a reception centre and access its services.
  • Right to work and study in Finland, provided they have received a decision or already have the right to work.
  • Asylum applications are suspended while the temporary protection residence permit is valid.

• Application Process:

  • Applications for temporary protection can be submitted to the police or border authority.
  • The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) issues the temporary protection residence permit.
  • Processing of residence permits continues normally, though it is not possible to send residence permit cards to Ukraine at this time.

• No Removal to Ukraine:

  • The Finnish Immigration Service has temporarily suspended issuing negative decisions that would result in removal to Ukraine.

Key Information

• The directive aims to facilitate the movement and settlement of Ukrainian nationals fleeing the war.
• It provides a faster and more streamlined process compared to traditional asylum procedures.
• The number of applications is increasing daily, and Finland is prepared to expand reception capacity if needed.
• KPMG continues to monitor the situation and provide support to affected individuals and companies.

Footnotes and References

• The EU decision is based on Council Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/382.
• For more details on the Finnish government's decision, see the Ministry of the Interior and Migri websites.
• KPMG International member firms in Finland offer guidance and support for those affected by the migration crisis.
• KPMG LLP in the U.S. does not offer immigration services, but KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist with U.S. immigration matters.

Contact Information

For further assistance, contact the following KPMG professionals in Finland:

Note: KPMG LLP (U.S.) does not offer immigration services or labor law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist with U.S. immigration matters.