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PHP Version Support Timeline (2026)

PHP Version Support Timeline (2026)

DodaTech Updated Jun 20, 2026 4 min read

PHP releases a new major or minor version every November under a predictable support window: each version receives 2 years of active (bug fix) support followed by 1 year of security-only fixes, totaling 3 years of support per branch. Unlike Python or Node.js, PHP uses a single active release strategy — only the latest version receives bug fixes, and only the latest three versions receive security patches at any given time. Running an unsupported PHP version means your application is exposed to unpatched vulnerabilities, making regular upgrades a critical part of PHP maintenance.

PHP Version Support Table

VersionRelease DateActive Support EndSecurity Fixes End (EOL)
7.4Nov 2019Nov 2021Nov 2022
8.0Nov 2020Nov 2022Nov 2023
8.1Nov 2021Nov 2023Nov 2024
8.2Nov 2022Nov 2024Dec 2025
8.3Nov 2023Nov 2025Dec 2026
8.4Nov 2024Nov 2026Dec 2027

PHP Support Policy

The PHP release cycle is managed by the PHP Group and follows a structured timeline:

  • Active support: 2 years from release — bug fixes, security patches, and feature updates (for minor releases).
  • Security-only fixes: 1 additional year — only critical security issues are patched.
  • End of Life: No further updates. The version is archived and removed from the official download page.

PHP releases a new version every November (major or minor). Only the latest three branches receive security support. For example, when PHP 8.5 releases in November 2026, support for PHP 8.2 will end immediately if it has not already.

Upgrades between PHP minor versions (e.g., 8.1 to 8.2) are generally smooth but may include minor breaking changes. Major version upgrades (e.g., 7.x to 8.x) include intentional breaking changes — always test your application thoroughly before upgrading.

How to Check Your PHP Version 

php -v
# PHP 8.3.12 (cli) (built: Oct  1 2024 14:10:43) ( NTS )

To check programmatically:

<?php
echo phpversion();
?>

Upgrade Path

Current VersionRecommended TargetReason
7.4 (EOL Nov 2022)8.3 or 8.47.4 is fully unsupported; 8.3/8.4 have active security support
8.0 (EOL Nov 2023)8.3 or 8.48.0 is fully unsupported
8.1 (EOL Nov 2024)8.3 or 8.48.1 is fully unsupported
8.2 (security-only)8.48.2 security ends Dec 2025; 8.4 is the current version
8.38.48.3 has active support until Nov 2025; upgrade before it enters security-only
8.48.5 (when released)8.4 is the current version; plan for 8.5 in Nov 2026

FAQ

How long does each PHP version receive support?
Each PHP version receives 2 years of active bug fix support followed by 1 year of security-only fixes, for a total of 3 years of support from the release date.
What happens after PHP reaches end-of-life?
After EOL, no updates of any kind are released — including security patches. The version is considered unsafe for production use. Package managers like apt may remove the version from their repositories shortly after EOL.
Which PHP version should I use for a new project?
PHP 8.4 is the current release (November 2024) and is recommended for all new projects. It offers the latest features, performance improvements (including JIT compilation), and the longest support window.
How do I upgrade from PHP 7.x to PHP 8.x?
Upgrading from 7.x to 8.x involves checking for removed functions, changed return types, and deprecated features. PHP 8.0 introduced union types, named arguments, attributes, and the JIT compiler — all backwards-incompatible changes from 7.x. Run the PHP Compatibility Checker tool against your codebase before attempting the upgrade.
Does PHP have LTS releases like Node.js or Java?
No. PHP does not designate LTS releases. Every version follows the same 2+1 year support model. Some Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Red Hat) provide extended support for specific PHP versions through their own security teams, but these are not official PHP project releases.
What is the difference between PHP minor and major versions for upgrades?
Minor version upgrades (8.0 → 8.1 → 8.2) are expected to be safe with minimal breaking changes. Major version upgrades (7.4 → 8.0) include intentional breaking changes and require thorough testing. Always consult the UPGRADING documentation before a major upgrade.

Related Schedules

  • Python Version EOL Schedule
  • Node.js Release Schedule
  • Ruby Version End-of-Life Schedule
  • .NET / .NET Core Support Lifecycle
Previous Java / JDK LTS Schedule (2026) Next Ruby Version End-of-Life Schedule (2026)

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