The Interior Ministry’s forthcoming law with the working title lex Ukraine IV should regulate the current life of Ukrainian refugees in the Czech Republic. In addition to extending temporary protection, which is now expected to last until March 2024, the state should stop paying for refugees’ accommodation.
The ministry proposes a time limit on the accommodation provided free of charge. After a fixed period, the refugee must agree with the accommodation provider on the rent price or find other housing.
Two options
On Thursday, Labour and Social Affairs Minister Marian Jurečka (KDU-ČSL) said that the Czech social system would not be fully open to Ukrainian refugees. He envisages a monthly humanitarian benefit of CZK 5,000 will still be provided.
According to Interior Ministry statistics, more than 437 000 Ukrainian refugees had applied for temporary protection in the Czech Republic by the end of September.
According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MLSA), over 87 000 of them went to work, and 141 000 received humanitarian benefits in September, almost 100 000 fewer than in the spring months.
According to the proposal, temporary protection should be extended until March 2024, which is the primary goal of the legislation under consideration, according to Interior Ministry spokeswoman Hana Malé.
The proposal envisages two options for refugees to apply for visa extensions. The first envisages that the process would be divided into several stages.
Simplifying the practice of doctors
The law also seeks to simplify the acquisition of professional practice by Ukrainian doctors, specifically general practitioners, pediatricians, and psychologists.
However, it is not yet clear when the draft will be approved, as the proposal is now undergoing an inter-ministerial comment procedure.