Which women will be banned from leaving Ukraine in 2025 and is it possible to mobilize them?

In 2025, Ukraine will have rules regarding women's travel abroad and mobilization under martial law. Find out more about which women cannot leave the country and which categories are subject to restrictions

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At the beginning of 2025, Ukraine will have certain restrictions on women's travel abroad, depending on their professional status and involvement in the civil service or military. Since the introduction of martial law, travel restrictions have been imposed not only on men but also on certain categories of women.

Travel restrictions are an important element of the state's mobilization policy during wartime. They are aimed at ensuring the functioning of critical industries, retaining personnel in the security forces, and maintaining the country's defense capabilities. Women who hold certain positions or have special skills that can be useful for the state in wartime are subject to restrictions on their movement.

In this article, we will look at which women cannot leave the territory of Ukraine in 2025 and what rules apply to different groups of the population.

💡Are you sure that your status allows you to cross the border without hindrance?
 

If you have any questions about departure, mobilization or legalization abroad, contact professional migration lawyers. Get advice and avoid risks!

Women's mobilization in Ukraine in 2025: what is known

On December 3, 2024, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted in the first reading draft law No. 12076, which stipulates that women who wish to serve in the Armed Forces must register as conscripts and undergo basic military training. Upon completion of the training, their data will be entered into the military register, and they will automatically acquire the status of persons liable for military service.

Since the Constitution of Ukraine does not provide for gender division in the performance of duties to the state, the requirements for men during martial law may also apply to women.

However, the law on mobilization does not contain provisions on the mandatory conscription of women into the Armed Forces of Ukraine - they can sign a contract for service only on a voluntary basis. However, there are exceptions.

Restrictions on women's departure from Ukraine in 2025: who is subject to the ban?

Women in the military

Women serving under contract in the Armed Forces of Ukraine are subject to restrictions on traveling abroad during martial law. This is due to their status as servicewomen and the need to fulfill their official duties in the country.

Women law enforcement officers

Similar restrictions apply to women who serve in law enforcement agencies, including the police. They can travel abroad only if they have appropriate business trips or for valid reasons confirmed by official documents.

If you are planning to travel abroad or are already outside of Ukraine, it is important to properly prepare documents and know your rights. Legal nuances are subject to change, and ignorance of the law does not absolve you from liability. To avoid problems at the border or during your stay in another country, you should consult a specialist in advance. Migration lawyers will help you understand the situation and prepare all the necessary documents.

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Civil servants

According to the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 69 of January 27, 2023, women holding civil servant positions are restricted from traveling abroad during martial law.

Travel is allowed only in cases of official business trips or for valid reasons, such as treatment abroad, the death of a close relative, or the need to care for minor children, which is confirmed by relevant documents.

Women doctors and pharmacists

At the beginning of 2025, Ukraine is discussing the possibility of mobilizing women, especially those with medical or pharmaceutical education. According to the current legislation, women can be called up for military service on a voluntary basis.

Draft law No. 12076, which allows women who meet the health and age requirements to voluntarily undergo basic military training and enlist in the military.

Please note! Women who have a medical or pharmaceutical education and have reached the age of 18 must have a document of military registration.

Thus, women with medical or pharmaceutical education are required to register for military service. However, this does not mean automatic mobilization. Conscription is only possible if they wish to be drafted.

In general, most Ukrainian women have the right to travel abroad freely, even during martial law. Restrictions apply mainly to those who are in the civil service, military or law enforcement agencies, and only within the scope of their official duties.

Women who are registered with the military but not mobilized have no restrictions on traveling abroad.

The system of mobilization measures in the country continues to change, and therefore women planning to travel abroad should closely monitor legislative updates and contact official authorities for up-to-date information.

Given the current situation, further changes in the rules of departure are expected, so women are advised to check the current regulations before planning their trips.

We remind you! Ukrainians who have previously had the status of ‘restrictedly fit’ for military service are required to undergo a second medical examination at the Military Qualification Commission. Violation of the deadlines may result in fines of up to UAH 25,500.

Photo: armyinform.com.ua

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