The Minister of Justice has issued new guidelines on the processing of applications for collective protection due to the mass displacement from Ukraine. The guidelines apply to new applications and do not affect individuals who already have collective protection in Iceland.
The changes concern, on the one hand, individuals who hold a valid residence permit based on temporary protection in another European country and, on the other hand, individuals who cannot demonstrate that they had authorization to leave Ukraine.
Temporary protection in another country
As of August 23, 2026, the Directorate of Immigration will not grant residence permits on the basis of collective protection due to mass displacement to individuals who hold a valid residence permit based on temporary protection in a Member State of the European Union, or an equivalent permit in Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, or Liechtenstein.
The Directorate of Immigration assesses applications on an individual basis and may make exceptions in cases involving certain family ties to individuals residing in Iceland who have collective protection.
Departure from Ukraine and obligations toward the country’s armed forces
Individuals who leave Ukraine after August 23, 2026 will not be granted collective protection due to mass displacement unless they can demonstrate that they had authorization from the Ukrainian authorities to leave the country, taking into account any obligations they may have under Ukrainian law.
The burden of proof rests with the applicant. Applicants must demonstrate that they left Ukraine lawfully, for example by presenting an exit stamp in their passport. If lawful departure cannot be verified, the applicant must provide an official document, either in paper or electronic form, confirming that they are not subject to obligations toward the country’s armed forces. Ukrainian citizens who are not subject to conscription may nevertheless have obligations relating to military service, regardless of age or gender.
Those who do not meet the requirements for collective protection may still apply for international protection in Iceland. Such applications are assessed independently in accordance with the Foreign Nationals Act.
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Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news becomes available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.