The number for the Red Cross WhatsApp Helpline has changed. The new number for the Helpline is: +31 97 0102 86 964. 

The Helpline is intended for refugees from Ukraine in the Netherlands. They will receive advice and information in their own language through the Helpline. For example, about accommodation options in the Netherlands, urgent assistance, or the seach for lost family members and friends. 

Extension of the Temporary Protection Directive

On September 28, the EU member states decided to extend the current Temporary Protection Directive (TPD) by one year. Refugees from Ukraine can stay in EU member states until March 4, 2025. They are entitled to accommodation, medical care, employment, and education until that date.

The government is currently working on decisions regarding the stay and return of refugees from Ukraine after March 2, 2025. The State Secretary for Justice and Security has decided to freeze the consequences for the group of third-country nationals (people with a temporary residence permit in Ukraine) until the Council of State makes a ruling.

You can find more information on this topic in various languages here.

Changes in Allowances from October 1st

Starting from October 1, 2023, there will be a change in allowances for refugees from Ukraine. These allowances consist of three components: clothing allowance, food allowance, and an additional stipend for individuals residing in host families. Both the clothing allowance and the food allowance will be increased to compensate for rising prices.

However, the additional stipend for those living in host families will be reduced from €93 to €80.91 per month. The amount of the additional stipend is determined by Nibud. This reduction is being implemented because the average monthly costs for gas, water, and electricity have decreased. If you have made arrangements with your host regarding a contribution towards living expenses, it’s advisable to discuss this change with them. You can find more information on this topic in various languages here.

This weekend, the State Secretary for Justice and Security, following the advice of the Council of State, has decided that ‘third-country nationals’ will continue to have the right to stay in the Netherlands until the Council of State reaches a final verdict on this matter. Therefore, they do not have to leave the place where they are staying by September 4th.

Initiating a Procedure

The reason behind this decision is a series of expedited rulings by the Council of State regarding the right of residence for third-country nationals. The Council of State acknowledges that these rulings may not directly apply to all third-country nationals, but they serve as guiding principles. This means that all third-country nationals who appeal against a decision requiring them to leave the country are allowed to remain in reception facilities until a final ruling is issued. However, it is still crucial for third-country nationals to initiate a procedure against the decision to terminate the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD). To do this, they must be connected with a lawyer through the legal aid board if they haven’t done so already. This will enable the lawyer to respond within the prescribed timeframe.

Helpdesk for Third-Country Nationals

The legal helpdesk of Vluchtelingenwerk (Refugee Work) is ready to answer questions from third-country nationals and provide assistance in initiating procedures. The Ukraine helpdesk can be reached by phone every working day at 020-3467250 or by email at helpdesk@vluchtelingenwerk.nl.