Temporary protection for Ukrainians

The EU protection for people who fled the war in Ukraine: who can get it in Madrid, what it gives you, and how to stay after it ends.

Other passports

Last checked against official sources on 9 November 2026. Rules change, so confirm before you act. This is general information, not legal advice.

Who can apply

Ukrainians, and their family members, who lived in Ukraine before 24 February 2022.
Ukrainians who were already in Spain before 24 February 2022 and can't go back.
People from other countries who lived legally in Ukraine, including as students, and can't return safely to their own country.
Since 31 July 2026, new applicants must show they've met their Ukrainian military obligations, for example with an exit stamp in their passport or the Reserv+ app. People who already had protection in Spain on 30 July 2026, and keep it without a break, aren't affected.

Book an appointment at the CREADE, Paseo de la Casa de Campo 1, Pozuelo de Alarcón, by phone on +34 666 800 194. You can also apply at one of the listed National Police stations.
You get a receipt with your NIE straight away. It lets you stay legally and get healthcare.
Download your decision from the Ministry of the Interior's website 24 to 48 hours later. It gives you residence and, from age 16, the right to work.
Book a police appointment for your TIE. You must request it within one month of protection being granted.

The right to live and work in Spain, employed or self-employed.
Public healthcare. Your receipt is enough to start, and the health card follows by post.
Access to university and to the public grant system, once your school certificate is recognised and you've passed the UNED entrance tests (PCE). Ukrainian degrees are recognised on a fast track.
Travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180. Your TIE isn't a travel document, so travel with your passport.

Students can switch to a residence and work permit, or to arraigo socioformativo, without leaving Spain. Time under protection counts in full towards long-term residence after five years.
Give up protection only after the new permit is granted, and keep the receipt for giving it up: you need it for your new TIE.
Giving up protection early can mean meeting the military-obligations condition if you ever apply again.
TIE cards were extended to 4 March 2027 so far, while protection now runs to 4 March 2028. Spain has published the card extensions each February.

Helpful experience, not official rules.

Exchange your Ukrainian driving licence before you leave protection. Categories A and B are exchanged without a test.
If you're on a low income, banks must offer you a free basic account.

Practical help, not official wording. Staff may not speak English, so it helps to have these ready.

Vengo a solicitar protección temporal.: I'm here to apply for temporary protection.
Soy de Ucrania.: I'm from Ukraine.
Necesito la tarjeta sanitaria.: I need a health card.
Hola, tengo cita a las diez.: Hello, I have an appointment at ten o'clock.
No hablo bien español. ¿Habla inglés?: I don't speak Spanish well. Do you speak English?
¿Puede hablar más despacio, por favor?: Could you speak more slowly, please?
¿Puede escribirlo, por favor?: Could you write it down, please?
¿Me falta algún documento?: Am I missing any document?

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