Norway is planning to implement stricter residence regulations for newly arrived Ukrainian men of military age, effectively concluding the temporary collective protection that has been granted during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Astri Aas-Hansen, Norway's Minister of Justice, emphasized the need for controlled and sustainable immigration, stating that Norway has seen a significant influx of young Ukrainian men since autumn 2025, leading to the decision for more stringent measures to prevent an excessive influx.

The government's proposal, which is set to be circulated for public consultation, will impact Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60, who will no longer be afforded temporary collective protection unless they meet certain exceptions. Instead, applicants will have to seek asylum through the general procedures that apply to all asylum seekers in the country. This move comes in the context of Norway having already accepted one of the highest numbers of Ukrainian refugees in the Nordic region since the conflict began.

This shift in policy illustrates a broader trend across Europe where countries are reassessing their immigration policies in response to the ongoing situation in Ukraine, balancing humanitarian considerations with domestic pressures regarding immigration control. The implications of this policy change could affect many young men seeking refuge from the conflict, prompting a reassessment of how these policies interact with the needs of fleeing populations and the resources available to host countries.