Ukraine Eases Residency Permit Rules for Foreign Soldiers and Volunteers

The Ukrainian government has introduced a simplified procedure for granting temporary residence permits to foreign nationals who support the country’s defense forces against Russian aggression and to volunteers assisting in various capacities.

The announcement came via the Ministry of Defense, which detailed the implementation of a Cabinet of Ministers resolution titled “On Approval of the Procedure for Obtaining Information Necessary for Preparing Submissions for the Issuance of Temporary Residence Permits to Foreigners and Stateless Persons.”

According to the resolution, the new rules clarify the basis for issuing temporary residence permits. This includes providing additional protections for foreign volunteers offering logistical, tactical, medical, and other forms of support to Ukraine’s armed forces.

The document also strengthens safeguards for foreign nationals who have spent at least six months on the front lines, actively participating in combat alongside the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Key elements of the resolution include:

• A mechanism for gathering information about foreign nationals or stateless individuals who assist or have assisted military units in combat zones.

• Requirements for applications submitted by the individuals or their representatives.

• Procedures and timelines for the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Internal Affairs to review such applications.

• A process for military commanders to issue informational references confirming the provision of support, presence in combat zones, and participation in operational or service tasks.

• Guidelines for forwarding documentation to the State Migration Service as the basis for granting a temporary residence permit and notifying the applicant.

Deputy Minister of Defense, Brigadier General of Justice Serhiy Melnyk, emphasized the importance of the resolution, stating, “We are bolstering the personnel capacity of our Defense Forces while safeguarding foreign nationals and stateless persons who contribute to our military efforts against Russian aggression. This decision provides critical protections to foreign volunteers engaged in tactical, technical, and medical assistance and to those serving on the front lines for extended periods.”

The legal framework for this initiative was established under Law No. 3897-IX, adopted on August 20, 2024. It specifically addresses the issuance of temporary residence permits to foreign nationals and stateless persons aiding Ukraine’s defense efforts during the ongoing state of martial law.

Earlier, the Ukrainian Parliament passed Law No. 9585, creating a legal framework to grant citizenship to foreign nationals and stateless individuals serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The legislation outlines a step-by-step process, starting with temporary residence permits, moving to immigration permits, and ultimately leading to Ukrainian citizenship for those defending the country against Russian aggression.