- December 17, 2025
- 3:47 pm
- Israel
The Israeli Ministry of Interior on December 17, 2025, officially updated the policy regarding Ukrainian citizens (war refugees – ed.) residing in the country. Collective protection from deportation and related measures have been extended until March 31, 2026 or until the end of the war in Ukraine and the possibility of safe return — whichever comes first.
This was reported on December 17, 2025 by the רשות האוכלוסין וההגירה (Population and Immigration Authority) on the official portal of the Israeli government.
Visa extension without visiting the Ministry of Interior
According to the updated policy, Ukrainian citizens are automatically extended B/2 (tourist) visas without the need for a personal visit to the Ministry of Interior offices.
This applies to two categories:
Ukrainians who were legally in Israel at the time the war began;
Ukrainians who entered Israel after the start of full-scale hostilities.
In both cases, their stay in the country is considered permitted for the duration of the policy.
Work after 90 days: important clarification
The document separately emphasizes the issue of employment. The Israeli Ministry of Interior states that no coercive measures will be taken against employers hiring Ukrainian citizens, provided two conditions are met:
more than 90 days have passed since the worker entered Israel;
the worker has a valid Ukrainian passport.
At the same time, the responsibility for verifying these conditions is fully placed on the employer. The state does not introduce new work permits but effectively records the practice that has developed during the war.
Status of stay after exceeding 90 days
The updated information separately notes: if a Ukrainian citizen was legally in Israel and exceeded the 90-day stay period, their status is considered permitted under the current policy.
It is also emphasized that stay permits will be re-examined based on updated data on the situation in Ukraine.
What about refugee status and SMS notifications
Currently, there is no official confirmation of information about mass SMS distribution to Ukrainian citizens urging them to apply for refugee status. The Israeli authorities have not published such statements.
НАновости continues to monitor this issue and will report additionally if official clarifications appear.
Until when the policy is in effect
The updated policy of the Israeli Ministry of Interior is in effect:
until March 31, 2026,
or until the end of the war in Ukraine and the possibility of return,
— whichever occurs first.
After the end of this period, the Israeli authorities plan to re-evaluate the approach to the stay of Ukrainian citizens.
Where to clarify rights to medicine and education
For questions regarding access to:
education — it is recommended to contact the Ministry of Education of Israel;
medical assistance — the Ministry of Health.
Each case is considered individually within the framework of current regulations.
Source: official website of the Israeli government (gov.il), publication from 17.12.2025.
НАновости — News of Israel | Nikk.Agency
