International Legion of Ukraine for Ukrainians: how to join and what are the conditions?

For those who want to join the fight for Ukraine's independence, there is the International Legion among the various units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. If you want to join and fight for freedom, this material will be your detailed guide! Find out full information about the conditions of admission, eligibility requirements, documents and application procedure

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The International Legion of Territorial Defense of Ukraine is a military unit formed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decree at the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

It consists of infantry and special purpose battalions that are part of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The Legion is directly involved in combat missions and is fighting for Ukraine's independence.

Read more about the current rules for joining the International Legion in 2025 below.

Requirements for candidates for admission

To join the International Legion of Ukraine, a candidate must meet the following criteria

- Age from 18 to 60 years;

- No criminal record;

- No chronic diseases (confirmed by a medical commission);

- Adequate physical fitness to perform combat missions;

- Possibility of legal entry to Ukraine (the candidate is responsible for solving visa issues and organizing his/her own travel);

- Military or combat experience is an advantage, but not a requirement.

Restrictions on admission

Not all candidates can be admitted to the Legion. Applications will be rejected in the following cases:

- If the candidate is a student of an educational institution;

- In the case of serious medical conditions, including disability of group I or II, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis or venereal diseases;

- In case of open criminal proceedings or convictions under Articles 109-111, 113-114, 152-156, 430 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

In some cases, applications of persons with disabilities of group III or military personnel against whom proceedings were initiated but closed are considered on an individual basis.

How to apply for membership in the International Legion of Ukraine?

The application procedure has been greatly simplified. The candidate must follow the following steps:

1. Fill out a special form on the official website of the International Legion - https://ildu.mil.gov.ua/.

2. Scan and prepare the following documents:

- Passport;

- Documents confirming military or combat experience (if any).

3. Send the completed application form and documents to the email address: int_legion_ua@post.mil.gov.ua.

How can a foreigner join the International Legion?

Foreigners who wish to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine can do so through the International Legion or other military formations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The procedure for joining includes the following steps:

1. Contact the International Legion via the official website or e-mail.

2. Fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents (passport, military experience, if any).

3. Pass a background check and interview with representatives of the Legion or the command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

4. Receive approval and a letter of recommendation to sign a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

5. Arrive in Ukraine according to the instructions received, undergo training and officially join the service.

Important updates on enlistment:

- There is no need to apply to the Embassy of Ukraine in your country.

- You do not need to come to Ukraine before receiving official confirmation.

- No need to apply for a residence permit before signing a contract with the Armed Forces.

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What happens after submitting the application?

After submitting the application form, a recruiter will contact you to clarify the details and send you an additional questionnaire. Your contact information will then be passed on to the future unit commander for a final interview.

Do not worry - the International Legion commanders have extensive combat experience, adhere to modern approaches to warfare and maintain a friendly atmosphere in the team.

If the interview is successful, the recruiter will issue a Letter of Recommendation for you and provide detailed instructions on the next steps to officially join the Legion.

How long does it take to process an application?

1. After submitting the application form and documents, the Legion representatives check the correctness of their execution. If everything is in order, the application is submitted to the relevant departments for consideration.

2. The first stage of consideration takes up to 14 days. If the candidate does not receive a response during this time, he or she can contact Legion representatives via social media (Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, Twitter).

3. The final decision is made within 21 days after confirmation of the application submission to the units.

What should I do after my application is approved?

If your application is approved, you will be provided with instructions on how to proceed, including preparing and organizing your arrival in Ukraine. Additional information on the rules of entry and stay can be found on the Legion's official website.

The International Legion of Ukraine is an opportunity to contribute to the fight for freedom and independence of Ukraine. If you are ready to become a part of the Legion, apply online and wait for a response. Your support makes a difference!

Just to remind you. Ukraine is a country with a unique culture, rich history and dynamic development. At the same time, the current reality imposes certain restrictions due to martial law, curfews and the need to adapt to the new security environment. Find out what you should know about life in Ukraine in 2025 by following the link.

Photo: president.gov.ua

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