Ukrainian sailors, according to the legislation, can travel abroad during martial law. However, there are a number of rules and conditions for them. Find out in which cases seafarers are allowed to travel abroad and what documents are required for this purpose

Legal advice for Ukrainians

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Since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine, men of mobilisation age have been banned from leaving the country. Exceptions apply only to certain categories of citizens, including sailors. We will tell you how such persons can travel abroad and what they need to do.

The government of Ukraine approved the exit permit for sailors back in 2022. However, the rules have changed slightly since then.

When are seafarers allowed to travel abroad?

The government decree states that during martial law, citizens of military age who are seafarers may cross the border in cases where they are travelling to:

🔻 work in the crews of seagoing vessels or inland navigation vessels;

🔻 undergoing practical training for such work.

At the same time, the government has determined which specific categories of seafarers are involved: 

1. cadets studying in educational institutions for further practice on a vessel - both with a Ukrainian and foreign flag;

2. seafarers sent to work on ships exporting Ukrainian agricultural products;

3. other Ukrainian seafarers.

However, there are conditions for the departure of these groups. Seafarers who wish to leave must have received their education before the outbreak of a full-scale war, and must have completed their studies during the period when martial law was introduced.

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What documents are required for seafarers to go abroad?

In the case of cadets, they must provide a certificate issued by their educational institution. It must also be accompanied by military registration documents. As for seafarers, they need documents on their ship's role from the Shipping Administration. In addition, copies of educational and qualification documents are attached.

It is also important to note that after the introduction of the new mobilisation law, seafarers may be required to provide military registration documents along with their identity documents when leaving Ukrainian ports.

The list of military registration documents includes

- in paper form (military ID card, temporary certificate of a person liable for military service);

- or in the electronic form ‘Reserve+’.

If such persons do not have a military registration document (military registration document in electronic form), they will be denied access to the state border of Ukraine. It is important that such documents must be as specified in the document with the appropriate marks of the TCC.

Our lawyers are always happy to help you with documentation for travelling abroad. VU's legal department specialises in migration issues, so our professionals select an individual approach for each client. If you need help in this area, we recommend ordering a legal consultation right now.

We remind you! on 18 May, a new law on mobilisation and military service came into force, which changed the procedure for military registration, conscription and increased sanctions for evaders. Read here to find out whether the changes affect the rules for travelling abroad during leave and what documents are required.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Ihor Usyk is the Head of Legal Department at Visit Ukraine

To get comprehensive information on the current rules for crossing the state border, use the legal support on our service. Our lawyers will answer all your questions and help you solve your urgent issues.

Do you have additional questions? Contact the Visit Ukraine hotline (Telegram | WhatsApp).

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

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Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

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