Obtaining a residence permit for representatives of religious organizations in Ukraine has a clear algorithm. Find out how to avoid bureaucratic difficulties, prepare documents and simplify the process with legal support

Legal assistance on entry, stay and legalization of foreigners in Ukraine

GET

Religious leaders who wish to carry out activities in Ukraine can obtain a residence permit in accordance with the law. The article below explains what requirements an applicant must meet, the procedure for submitting documents, and what is needed to successfully obtain a residence permit.

As a reminder, a residence permit allows foreign citizens to legally reside, work or engage in other activities in Ukraine. For religious leaders, this is a key document that confirms their status and allows them to carry out their mission without hindrance.

💡Do you need professional help?

Visit Ukraine's qualified lawyers specialize in migration law and have extensive experience working with Ukrainian and foreign applicants. You can sign up for a consultation via WhatsApp and Telegram or through the form on the website. Our specialists will help you assess your situation and prepare the necessary documents, and if necessary, will accompany you at all stages of the process. Read more about the services of Visit Ukraine lawyers here.

Legal framework: how is the procedure for obtaining a residence permit regulated?

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine is regulated by the following documents:

1. The Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons” (No. 3773-VI of 22.09.2011).

2. Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 251 of 28.03.2012 - the procedure for registration, issuance, exchange, and revocation of residence permits.

3. The Law of Ukraine “On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations” (No. 987-XII of 23.04.1991) defines the rights of religious organizations and their representatives.

4. Order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs No. 681 of 15.07.2013 - defines the list of documents and the procedure for submitting applications.

What type of residence permit can be obtained?

● Temporary residence permit (valid for up to 1 year with the possibility of extension).

● Permanent residence permit (can be obtained in certain cases if the applicant has the grounds provided for by law).

Who can apply for a residence permit?

Foreign citizens and stateless persons who:

● are representatives of religious organizations registered in Ukraine

● are invited to participate in religious, preaching, charitable or other canonical activities.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

The procedure for obtaining a temporary residence permit

Step 1: Preparation of documents

A representative of a religious organization must prepare the following documents:

1. Application for a residence permit (to be filled out at the migration service).

2. Passport (original and copy with translation into Ukrainian, certified by a notary).

3. Certificate from a religious organization confirming:

● invitation to perform canonical activities;

● registration of the organization in Ukraine.

4. Work permit (not required for religious activities, but may be a requirement for other types of activities).

5. Health insurance (the policy must cover the entire period of stay).

6. Receipt of payment of the administrative fee.

Step 2: Submission of documents

The documents are submitted to the local unit of the State Migration Service (SMS).

The application is considered within 15 working days.

Step 3: Obtaining a residence permit

If all the requirements are met, the applicant receives a temporary residence permit. The document is the basis for legal stay in Ukraine.

Special conditions for religious leaders

1. No work permit. Representatives of religious organizations are exempted from the obligation to obtain a work permit (Article 42(5) of the Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners”).

2. Support of the organization. The religious organization must confirm its readiness to support the activities of the foreign representative.

3. Extension of a residence permit. To extend the residence permit, you must submit a similar package of documents no later than 15 days before the expiration of the residence permit.

When can a residence permit be refused?

The main reasons for refusal may include the following:

● Incomplete package of documents;

● False information;

● Threat to the national security of Ukraine;

● Violation of migration legislation.

Obtaining a residence permit for representatives of religious organizations in Ukraine is a clearly regulated process. It is important to prepare all the documents, meet the deadlines and take into account the requirements of the law. To save time and avoid mistakes, contact Visit Ukraine lawyers. Our specialists will advise on the rules and procedure for applying for a residence permit and, if necessary, provide comprehensive support for the applicant. To make an appointment for a consultation, write to our managers in a messenger convenient for you (WhatsApp/Telegram) or fill out the form on the website.

We remind you! Obtaining an insurance policy is one of the key stages of obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine for foreigners. Read our previous article to find out what requirements the Migration Service sets for insurance, what the policy should cover, and how to properly obtain it.

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

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2024, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.