Ireland to Phase Out State Accommodation for Ukrainians by March 2027

Ireland will phase out state accommodation for Ukrainians by March 2027, Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan announced. The government believes working individuals who have received free state accommodation for four years should now secure their own housing. This decision, approved by cabinet on Tuesday with junior minister Colm Brophy, includes ending state-contracted commercial accommodation, reducing host family payments, and developing a voluntary return program.

Ukrainians who arrived before March 2024 were entitled to rent-free state accommodation. Starting in August, this free accommodation will be removed, with a complete phase-out by March 4, 2027. Approximately 16,000 people are currently in state-provided accommodation, and 40,000 are in subsidized private homes. About 5,000 vulnerable individuals or those with specific family circumstances in state accommodation can apply to remain.

The accommodation recognition payment for households hosting Ukrainians will be reduced to €400 per month from October. This payment was previously €800, then €600 from September 2025. O’Callaghan stated that previous reductions did not significantly decrease the number of host families. A voluntary return scheme, similar to existing international protection processes, will offer travel reimbursement for those unable to afford their return to Ukraine, with details subject to EU developments. The minister emphasized the voluntary nature of the scheme.