Officers from the sub-prefecture of Bayonne welcome Ukrainian refugees without an appointment every morning. It is facilitate their procedures and speeding up the issuance of APS (provisional residence permits), for a period of six months. A specific European Union temporary protection program for Ukrainians considered as war refugees. Appointments are also given in the afternoons, when the public reception is usually closed.
Since mid-March, the number of APS issued has increased significantly. To date (Tuesday March 22), 42 APS were issued in the Basque Country with 26 children attached. Across the Atlantic Pyrenees, the Prefecture has counted since the invasion of Ukraine, the arrival of 265 refugees, including 103 children.
The temporary residence permit allows people to benefit from the asylum seeker’s allowance, social security coverage via the CMU. They can also collect the APL for their accommodation and have the authorization to work on French territory.
The 26 children attached to this residence permit are also all educated in the Basque Country, if possible rather in Hendaye and Bayonne which have schools adapted for non-French-speaking pupils.
Most of the refugees received in the Basque Country are currently staying with their families and friends. In the department, 1,200 accommodation offers were offered by individuals. If necessary, the Communal Social Action Centers will get in touch with them.