Ukrainians in Germany were explained whether it is possible to travel with an expired Aufenthaltstitel.

Ukrainians in Germany have been clarified whether it is possible to travel with an expired Aufenthaltstitel (residence permit).

As reported by 'Hvylya', this is stated by Relocate.to.

Right to Move in the EU

Since the full-scale war in Ukraine, hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians have received temporary protection status in Germany. This status, issued under paragraph 24 of the German Residence Act, grants the right to legally live in the country, work, and receive social assistance.

Many refugees' temporary protection documents (Aufenthaltstitel) are now expiring or already expired. However, there is important information for holders of such documents:

Important Nuances

• You can enter and exit any EU country with such a document
• Expired Aufenthaltstitel is also recognized by countries outside the EU, including Turkey, Egypt, and other states that have agreements with the EU in the field of migration
• The official basis for this is Annex 22 to the Schengen Code.

Legal Status of Temporary Protection

• The EU Implementation Decision No. 2024/1836 (June 25, 2024) officially extends temporary protection in all EU countries until 2026
• The regulation for extending residence permits (UkraineAufenthFGV) automatically extends all Aufenthaltstitel issued under §24 until March 4, 2026, without the need to obtain new plastic cards
• The first amendment to UkraineAufenthFGV (November 27, 2024) clarifies that all permits valid as of February 1, 2025, are automatically extended until March 4, 2026.

Recommendations

What to Do When Facing Problems at the Border

• Stay calm and politely explain to the border guards that your Aufenthaltstitel remains valid under EU law
• Reference official documents that confirm your right to move
• Have copies or links to the mentioned regulations with you.

Remember: knowing your rights is your main weapon. Do not hesitate to politely but confidently assert your legal status if necessary.

Let us remind you, a European country is sharply increasing payments to migrants.