
Family migration is a common phenomenon among Ukrainians who seek to reunite with their families abroad or provide comfortable conditions for their loved ones in Ukraine. The procedure involves a number of legal and organisational aspects that should be considered in advance. Learn more about the main stages of family migration and how to avoid common difficulties
Family migration is an important step for Ukrainians seeking to reunite with their relatives abroad or create favourable conditions for their loved ones in Ukraine.
The relocation process requires careful preparation, including collecting the necessary documents, complying with legal requirements and adapting to the new environment. Different countries have their own specific requirements for obtaining residence permits, which can complicate the process for applicants.
What are the key stages of family migration and what you should pay attention to - we will tell you further in the article.
What is family migration and why is it needed?
Family migration involves the process of moving family members to the country of residence of one of its members for reunification and living together. This may be relevant for spouses, children, parents or other close relatives. The main reasons for family migration are: search for better living conditions, children's education, work abroad or medical care.
The main stages of family migration
Determining the grounds for moving
Before starting the paperwork, it is important to determine the legal grounds for migration.
The main grounds for family migration include:
- reunification with a citizen of another country (e.g. spouse, children);
- residence under family reunification programmes;
- long-term cohabitation or care for elderly relatives.
Each country has its own requirements for proving family ties and financial solvency.
Preparing the necessary documents
The next step is to collect and prepare a package of documents. Depending on the country of destination, you may need:
- birth and marriage certificates;
- police clearance certificates;
- proof of financial status;
- medical certificates;
- documents confirming the place of residence in the country of destination.
All documents often need to be legalised or apostilled, as well as translated into the official language of the destination country.
Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!
Obtaining a visa or residence permit
Each country has its own rules for issuing family visas or residence permits. For example, EU countries provide for a type D visa, which entitles you to a long-term stay, while in the United States or Canada, you need to submit a separate immigration petition.
It is important to take into account the timeframe for processing documents, which can take from several months to a year.
Arrival in the country and registration
After obtaining an entry permit, you need to register at your place of residence, obtain an identification number, and take out local health insurance.
Many countries require immigrants to take integration tests or language courses to help them adapt.
Adaptation and integration
Moving to another country involves not only legal aspects but also social adaptation. It is important to prepare in advance for cultural differences, finding a job or studying, and getting to know local traditions.
Ukrainians planning family migration often face typical problems, such as:
- wrong choice of visa type or residence status;
- lack of a complete package of documents;
- violation of migration deadlines;
- difficulties with legalisation of status after moving.
In order to avoid these risks, it is recommended to contact professional lawyers.
Visit Ukraine's migration lawyers provide comprehensive support at all stages: from document preparation to support in the country of destination. By contacting experts, you can avoid bureaucratic difficulties and ensure a safe move for your family.
Book a consultation right now on the Visit Ukraine website and get professional assistance in family migration issues!
Remember. Having an insurance policy is a mandatory requirement for travelling to most countries of the world. Read here how much insurance costs for travelling abroad in 2025 and what it covers.
Photo: Freepik
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2025, 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.
Recommended articles
1 min
For refugees
How to transfer money from Ukraine to Europe?
Transferring money from Ukraine to Europe is possible today, but it requires a careful approach to choosing a transfer method and compliance with all the restrictions. Find out how to transfer money and what rules to follow
04 Jan. 2025
More details3 min
For refugees
What products do Ukrainians abroad miss the most: results of a survey among refugees
Life abroad seems wonderful and carefree only at first glance. In reality, every day is filled with longing for their home. Find out more about the products that Ukrainian refugees abroad lack the most
10 Jan. 2025
More details1 min
For refugees
This year, Ukraine plans to significantly simplify consular services for its citizens abroad. Find out what exactly they want to change and when it will start working
22 Jan. 2025
More details1 min
For refugees
Trump administration suspends entry of immigrants: it concerns Ukrainians
The Trump administration has suspended the approval of immigrant applications. This also applies to the U4U programme, which has helped many Ukrainian military migrants settle in the US. Find out all about the US President's order and how it will affect Ukrainian migration
27 Jan. 2025
More details