European support is ending: financial assistance and free housing are being reduced for Ukrainians

Ireland has made significant changes to the rules for Ukrainian refugees who arrived in the country due to the war. The period of stay in public housing has been reduced from 90 to 30 days, and financial payments for families hosting Ukrainians have been reduced from 800 to 600 euros per month. The government also plans to introduce mandatory deductions for working people temporarily living in public shelters managed by the International Protection and Accommodation Service (IPAS).

These changes are linked to a significant increase in arrivals and to the country’s limited resources. Officials report that about 50 people in need of housing arrive in Ireland every day. If the current pace continues, the reserves for providing public housing may run out by the end of November. Previously, families hosting Ukrainians received 800 euros per month, but this amount has now been reduced to 600 euros.

In addition, reducing the period of residence for new arrivals from 90 to 30 days is a significant change. Working residents will be required to pay for accommodation every week; the amounts will range from 15 to 238 euros, depending on income. For example, people with a salary of 97–150 euros per week will pay the lowest 15 euros, while those earning 340–405 euros will cover about half of the housing costs, approximately 119 euros per week.

According to MP Viktoriya Hryb, these changes reflect the general trend of reducing assistance to Ukrainian refugees in the EU. The current temporary protection program in Europe will end in March 2027. After that, only Ukrainians with official employment, a residence permit, or citizenship will be able to stay in EU countries. Others will be forced to return to Ukraine.