Will the deferment be extended beyond May 4: What is known about the automatic renewal in 2026

In Ukraine, deferments from mobilization are being automatically extended, but not for everyone at the same time. Find out how to check your status, who is eligible for an extension, and what to do if your deferment has not been renewed

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As May 4 approaches, conscripts traditionally have a flood of questions regarding the extension of their deferment from mobilization. In 2026, the situation is unusual: some people have already had their deferments automatically extended, even though there is currently no official decree extending general mobilization. This is reported by attorney Daria Tarasenko.

Are deferrals being extended automatically?

According to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 560, the extension of deferrals is tied to the extension of general mobilization. At the same time, in practice, some conscripts have already received an updated deferral date.

This indicates that the automatic mechanisms are functioning regardless of the formal adoption of a new decree. However, this process is not instantaneous — updates are being implemented gradually.

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How can you check if the deferment has been extended?

You can check your status via the “Reserve+” app. To do this, you need to generate a full extract and check the deferment date. If the extract shows a new date (for example, August 1), this means the deferment has already been automatically extended.

At the same time, the absence of an update does not mean a denial. As the lawyer explains, the system may update data in stages, and delays are typical.

Who most often receives an automatic extension?

According to information from the Administrative Service Centers, automatic extensions are most often applied to the following categories:

● people with disabilities;

● parents of children with disabilities or adult children in Groups I–II;

● parents of three or more minor children;

● full-time or dual-track undergraduate and graduate students;

● individuals whose spouses have disabilities;

● those who care for relatives with disabilities;

● education workers;

● families of military personnel;

● relatives of those killed in action or missing in action;

● those released from captivity;

● parents of seriously ill children;

● guardians of legally incapacitated persons;

● teachers who continue to work.

However, even within these categories, automatic extension is not guaranteed for everyone.

Why might the deferral not be renewed?

Despite the availability of documents, the system does not always automatically extend the deferral. According to Tarasenko, in practice, additional internal algorithms are in effect that are not publicly disclosed.

In previous periods, there have already been cases where documents were submitted, the grounds for deferral were confirmed, but the extension did not occur. Therefore, it is important not to rely solely on the automatic mechanism.

What should you do if the deferral wasn’t extended?

If a new date hasn’t appeared in “Reserve+,” you should take action yourself:

● resubmit the documents through the Administrative Service Center;

● or use the “Reserve+” app’s features, if available.

It is recommended to submit documents in advance, without waiting for the deadline, to avoid delays.

Tip: If you are planning to travel abroad, you can consult with immigration lawyers via Visit Ukraine regarding the necessary documents and procedures—this will help you prepare in advance and avoid mistakes.

We remind you! Currently, consular services for Ukrainian men of military age in Europe are limited. Read more about what to do if your passport has expired and which services are unavailable with an expired document.

Photo: mehaniq / Freepik

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