Foreign military personnel in Ukraine will be able to legalize their stay: details of the new law

Ukraine is changing its approach to the legal status of foreigners serving in the military by removing key bureaucratic restrictions. The new rules are designed to simplify access to documents, public services, and social guarantees for foreign military personnel and stateless persons. Learn more about the new law, the conditions for legalizing residence, and its practical significance

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Volodymyr Zelensky has approved legislative changes regulating the legal status of foreign citizens and stateless persons defending Ukraine. Regulatory Act No. 4730-IX resolves the issue of legalizing their stay in the country through the issuance of special documents. According to Finance.ua, the new rules are aimed at removing bureaucratic obstacles for foreign military personnel.

Documentation for foreign contract soldiers

The legislative changes allow foreign contract soldiers to obtain a temporary residence permit that will be valid for the entire duration of their contractual obligations. Moreover, the document remains valid for an additional three months after the end of service. This provision provides legal certainty for persons who have chosen a military career in Ukraine.

The law will come into force one month after its official publication. After that, persons who have already signed a contract will be given six months to submit the necessary documents for obtaining a permit. The state has provided a sufficient transition period for all interested parties to adapt to the new requirements.

Practical significance of legislative changes

Prior to the adoption of these innovations, foreign military personnel had the legal right to stay in Ukraine during their service and for three months after its completion. Military registration documents served as residence permits. However, in practice, significant complications arose when applying for administrative and social services, where this specific document was required.

The new law fills this gap by giving foreign military personnel full access to the necessary procedures. A temporary residence permit opens up opportunities to get various government services without extra red tape. The document also makes it easier to prove that you're legally in the country.

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Categories of military formations covered by the new rules

Legislative amendments to the regulatory act “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons” specify the military structures whose contract soldiers are eligible for a permit. This list includes the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard of Ukraine, and the State Special Transport Service.

The permit is issued for the entire period of the contract obligations with automatic renewal for three months after their termination. The legislation defines exceptions to this rule and establishes a clear list of documents required to obtain a permit. The application procedure is standardized for all categories of military personnel.

Features of the transition period and citizenship

Foreigners and stateless persons who signed a contract before the law came into force have special conditions. They are given a six-month period from the date of entry into force of the legislative act to submit documents for obtaining a certificate. This approach ensures that current contract soldiers do not find themselves in a legal vacuum.

Separately, legislative changes reduce the period for the entry into force of the rules on acquiring and retaining Ukrainian citizenship to three months. Previously, this process took longer, which created additional inconveniences for persons wishing to become citizens of Ukraine. The new deadlines accelerate the integration of foreign military personnel into Ukrainian society.

Social guarantees and legal protection

The law clarifies the legislative act “On the social and legal protection of military personnel and their families.” In general, it does not apply to foreign citizens and stateless persons who are serving in the military. However, the legislation provides for important exceptions for this category.

Provisions regarding monetary compensation, medical care, and leave remain in place for foreign contract soldiers. These rules ensure that foreigners receive an adequate level of social protection while performing their military duties. The state provides equal conditions in the areas of compensation and medical care, regardless of the servicemember's citizenship.

Staying in Ukraine requires a responsible approach to safety!

Regardless of your status in the country, it is important to take care of financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances. The Visit Ukraine portal offers insurance covering the risks of war, which ensures safety during your stay and travel in Ukraine.

Take out insurance and get reliable protection in any situation.

Reminder! Financial assistance remains an important form of support for military personnel in difficult life situations. Who is eligible for financial assistance in 2026, how much will be paid, and how to apply for it correctly — find out more at the link.

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