Collective protection in 2027: what has been clarified?

Collective protection will not be discontinued in 2027, the government announced on 17 September 2026. This clarifies the future of the scheme itself next year. It is not a decision granting permanent residence or a new individual residence card to everyone.

What has been clarified about collective protection in 2027?

The government will retain the scheme throughout 2027. The announcement from Justis- og beredskapsdepartementet also says that more information will be provided in good time. This includes information for the earliest arrivals, who reach five years of residence in spring 2027.

This article reflects the position as of 22 September 2026. SamfunnPrep distinguishes between a political clarification about the scheme and the decision concerning your own permit. You must still follow announcements from Utlendingsdirektoratet (UDI).

For background on different grounds for residence, see the overview of permanent residence permits.

What does the five-year limit mean?

Under the current main rule, collective protection is granted for one year at a time, for up to five years. The period is counted from the first permit. March 2027 is therefore not a shared end date for all Ukrainians in Norway.

Utlendingsloven § 34 allows for a new temporary permit after five years. This can form a basis for permanent residence. It does not mean that the practical arrangements have already been clarified for everyone reaching five years.

UDI has explained that the government must decide how this possibility will be put into use. The announcement of 17 September promises more information about the process ahead. It does not itself establish all the conditions, forms or individual decisions beyond the five-year limit.

Is the work-based proposal a solution for everyone?

No. The proposed special scheme would offer a possible transition for people who meet specific requirements. It is not a single new permit for everyone with collective protection.

The proposal includes requirements concerning employment, previous employment income and conduct. Accompanying family members have separate conditions. The planned launch is summer 2027, but the proposal must first be considered and adopted.

These are two different questions: whether collective protection continues, and whether you can choose a different permit. Low income or not having a job does not in itself cause your current protection to end as a result of this proposal.

What happens if you switch permits?

Under the proposal, a permit granted through the special scheme would replace collective protection and the rights associated with that basis. You would not hold both permits at the same time.

The new permit would be granted for one year at a time. Income and employment would be checked at renewal. The consultation paper says that someone who is later refused renewal cannot fall back on collective protection. Other grounds for residence or a new application for individual protection must then be assessed under their own rules.

It is therefore important to consider the whole family's circumstances before a future switch. SamfunnPrep provides separate explanations of residence periods that count and the self-support requirement for permanent residence.

What should you watch for now?

The most important thing is new, specific information from the authorities. The news is not a reason to apply under a scheme that has not yet opened.

• Check the date of your first permit and your current expiry date.
• Keep your address and contact details up to date.
• Keep decisions, pay information and family documentation.
• Follow UDI for your renewal and the government for the rules after five years.
• Distinguish between the consultation deadline of 30 October 2026 and future application deadlines.

Circumstances in an individual case may differ. Use up-to-date UDI guidance when making a decision about your permit.