Majority of Ukrainian refugees wish to stay in Denmark

Temporary residence permits create uncertainty

Since the war began, Ukrainians in Denmark have been covered by the Special Law for Displaced Persons from Ukraine, which ensures temporary residence permits. Initially granted until 2024, these permits have been extended twice, most recently until March 2026. However, this temporary status creates uncertainty among Ukrainian refugees. According to the analysis, 42 percent state that the fear of being sent back to Ukraine constitutes a “major” or “serious” problem in their daily lives.

Stronger integration – lower return rates

Compared to previous studies, the percentage of Ukrainians wishing to stay in Denmark has increased significantly. In the spring of 2023, only 50 percent preferred to remain, whereas the figure now stands at 69 percent. According to researchers, this trend may be due to more people establishing themselves in Denmark with jobs and social networks, as well as the fact that those who wished to return have already done so.

Family ties influence decision-making

The study shows that Ukrainian refugees’ family situations have a significant impact on their desire to stay in Denmark. Eighty percent no longer have a partner or children in Ukraine, and this group is far more likely to want to remain in Denmark (73 percent) compared to those who still have close family members in their home country (57 percent).

Gender and age differences in attachment to Denmark

Two-thirds of Ukrainian refugees in Denmark are women, but they are generally less likely than men to want to stay, as they more often have a partner or children in Ukraine. Additionally, the study indicates that younger Ukrainians are more likely to wish to remain in Denmark, whereas older individuals have a stronger attachment to their homeland.

What’s next?

The study’s results raise questions about how Denmark and the rest of the EU should handle the future of Ukrainian refugees. Current policy is based on the assumption that Ukrainians will return home when the war ends but increasing integration and the desire to stay suggest that many have found a new home in Denmark.

With residence permits for Ukrainians extended until March 2026, the political debate is likely to continue on whether Ukrainians should be given the opportunity for more permanent residency.

Read more about the study (in Danish): Størstedelen af ukrainerne ønsker at blive i Danmark – ROCKWOOL Fonden