Starting from March 1, 2025, the Slovak government plans to reduce the level of assistance provided to Ukrainian refugees, reports The Slovak Spectator.
This decision is part of a broader review of support programs implemented by the country following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. One of the key changes will be a reduction in the maximum length of stay in asylum centers from 120 days to 60 days. Similarly, financial assistance for housing will now be provided only for the first 60 days of residence, instead of the previous 120 days, which had been in effect since July 2023.
However, these cuts will not affect vulnerable groups, including pensioners aged 65 and older, children under the age of five, and their sole caregivers. For these groups, the support conditions will remain unchanged.
The Slovak Ministry of Labor explained that these measures are necessary to optimize state budget expenditures amid economic instability. Ministry representatives emphasized that while the country will continue to support those most in need, it also aims to encourage newcomers to independently seek housing and employment opportunities.
Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Slovakia has welcomed over 100,000 Ukrainian refugees, providing them with housing, financial aid, and other social services. Despite the new restrictions, the Slovak government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine during the ongoing conflict.
