An extended-validity passport: Why is it no longer valid, and what should you do?

The Cabinet of Ministers has repealed the emergency procedure for renewing passports, which had been in effect since 2022. Documents that were renewed under this simplified procedure are no longer valid for international travel. Learn more about who is affected by these changes and where to apply for a new passport

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Millions of Ukrainians living outside Ukraine may face difficulties when traveling and crossing borders. The reason is the repeal of the emergency procedure for renewing foreign passports, which had been in effect since 2022.

Who exactly is at risk, which documents have expired, and where to apply for a new passport—we explain further in this article.

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What has changed: the cancellation of the simplified renewal of foreign passports

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has canceled the special procedure that allowed for the renewal of foreign passports through a simplified process. This mechanism was introduced at the start of the full-scale invasion due to the limited capacity of consular offices and the difficulties in issuing new documents under wartime conditions.

From now on, passports whose validity was extended under this procedure are officially considered invalid for international travel.

For information on obtaining a foreign passport for a child whose father or mother is a foreign national — follow the link.

What are the consequences of having an invalid foreign passport abroad?

The practical consequences for holders of such documents can be serious:

• airlines have the right to refuse boarding;
• border services of other countries may not allow entry;
• documents containing information about children or family members added under the old temporary procedure may also be invalid.

The changes apply to both adults and children—there are no age exceptions.

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Where can a new Ukrainian passport be obtained?

There are several ways to obtain a new passport—both in Ukraine and abroad:

1. Ukrainian embassies and consulates—accept applications for passports abroad.
2. “Document” State Enterprise Centers—operate in a number of countries where there are corresponding offices.
3. Branches of the State Migration Service—are available within Ukraine.
4. Administrative Service Centers (ASCs)—are another option for those residing in Ukraine.

A foreign passport is issued for a period of 10 years for citizens aged 16 and older, and for 4 years for children under 16. Upon expiration, the document must be renewed.

How to obtain a power of attorney abroad in 2026 — we explain here.

How to return to Ukraine with an invalid passport?

Ukrainians who find themselves abroad without a valid passport can contact the nearest Ukrainian diplomatic mission. There, they can obtain a return ID—a temporary document allowing entry into Ukraine.

Holders of foreign passports whose validity has been extended under the simplified wartime procedure or to which entries have been made under temporary rules should check the status of their document as soon as possible. If necessary, apply for a new passport in advance to avoid problems while traveling.

Do you have questions about documents, legalizing your stay abroad, or other immigration issues?

The Visit Ukraine portal offers the opportunity to receive professional legal advice on immigration matters from a lawyer who can help you navigate your specific situation.

Schedule a consultation to protect yourself from unpleasant surprises at the border!

Reminder! We explained what a white passport for Ukrainians abroad is in a previous article.

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