Temporary refuge is a special status of temporary protection that Slovakia granted to Ukrainians after the full-scale war began in February 2022. It allows you to stay legally in the country, work without a separate permit, and use healthcare services.
What this status provides
- Legal stay without a classic residence permit (pobyt).
- Access to the labor market — you can get a job without a work permit.
- Medical care and the possibility of education for children.
The status is confirmed by a document marked odídenec. It must be renewed periodically — the terms are set by the government and can change, so follow official announcements. The process is done through the alien police department (cudzinecká polícia). It is important not to confuse this status with a regular pobyt: the conditions, rights, and renewal procedures are different.
