The declaration of a ceasefire in Ukraine could significantly change the rules for Ukrainians residing in Germany under Section 24 of the AufenthG. Will they have to return? Will financial support remain? What are the ways to legally reside after the war ends?
Content What does §24 status give and how will it change? Possible scenarios for Ukrainians after the armistice Voluntary return with support Deportation – an unlikely option Obtaining another status for legal residence What will happen to children and education? 
Currently, temporary protection for Ukrainians has been extended until March 2026, but changes are possible if the situation in Ukraine stabilizes. Let's consider together with WomanEL possible scenarios and options for those who want to stay in Germany.
What does §24 status provide and how will it change?
Paragraph 24 of the law on residence in Germany gives Ukrainians the right to legal residence, employment, access to social assistance and medical services.
The main advantages of §24 status:
- Financial support – over 500 euros per month for an adult, as well as additional payments for children.
- The right to work is the possibility of official employment without additional permits.
- Access to education – children studying in schools, and students studying in higher education institutions.
- Health insurance – equal rights with local residents.
However, if the situation in Ukraine stabilizes, Germany may change the conditions of stay for refugees or offer alternative support programs.
Possible scenarios for Ukrainians after the ceasefire
Assisted Voluntary Return
If the war ends, Germany could introduce assistance programs for those who decide to return:
• Payment for transportation (airline tickets, train and bus transportation).
• Financial assistance for the first months of adaptation.
• Legal advice on moving.
In 2017, the Starthilfe Plus program offered refugees up to 1,200 euros per person for voluntary repatriation.
Deportation is an unlikely option
Automatic termination of §24 status is not possible. Germany will take into account:
• Security level in Ukraine.
• Economic situation.
• Personal circumstances of refugees (marital status, education, work).
Even after the war ends, Germany will likely allow Ukrainians to stay for some time to adapt, as was the case with refugees from Kosovo.
Obtaining another status for legal residence
If you want to stay in Germany after the war ends, consider these alternatives:
• Work visa (§18a, §18b AufenthG) – for qualified specialists.
• Self-employment or starting a business (§21 AufenthG).
• Studying at a university (§16a AufenthG) – obtaining a student visa.
• Family reunification (§28 AufenthG) – if your relatives live in Germany.
• Humanitarian residence permit (§25 AufenthG) – for those who cannot return due to personal circumstances.
• Permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis, §9 AufenthG) – possible after 5 years of residence in the country.
If you have an official job or study, your chances of staying in Germany increase significantly.
What will happen to children and education?
All children under the age of 15 in Germany are required to attend local schools, regardless of their country of origin. However, an exception has been made for Ukrainian students in grades 10–11 – they can complete their studies remotely in Ukrainian schools. Preparatory programs for admission to German universities are also available for graduates.
The final decision on temporary protection status will be made at the EU level and by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). Ukrainians should closely monitor official updates and prepare for possible changes in advance.
Also find out if men will be allowed to obtain passports abroad without military documents.