Obtaining a residence permit for representatives of religious organizations in Ukraine has a clear algorithm. Find out how to avoid bureaucratic difficulties, prepare documents and simplify the process with legal support

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Religious leaders who wish to carry out activities in Ukraine can obtain a residence permit in accordance with the law. The article below explains what requirements an applicant must meet, the procedure for submitting documents, and what is needed to successfully obtain a residence permit.

As a reminder, a residence permit allows foreign citizens to legally reside, work or engage in other activities in Ukraine. For religious leaders, this is a key document that confirms their status and allows them to carry out their mission without hindrance.

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Legal framework: how is the procedure for obtaining a residence permit regulated?

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine is regulated by the following documents:

1. The Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons” (No. 3773-VI of 22.09.2011).

2. Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 251 of 28.03.2012 - the procedure for registration, issuance, exchange, and revocation of residence permits.

3. The Law of Ukraine “On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations” (No. 987-XII of 23.04.1991) defines the rights of religious organizations and their representatives.

4. Order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs No. 681 of 15.07.2013 - defines the list of documents and the procedure for submitting applications.

What type of residence permit can be obtained?

● Temporary residence permit (valid for up to 1 year with the possibility of extension).

● Permanent residence permit (can be obtained in certain cases if the applicant has the grounds provided for by law).

Who can apply for a residence permit?

Foreign citizens and stateless persons who:

● are representatives of religious organizations registered in Ukraine

● are invited to participate in religious, preaching, charitable or other canonical activities.

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The procedure for obtaining a temporary residence permit

Step 1: Preparation of documents

A representative of a religious organization must prepare the following documents:

1. Application for a residence permit (to be filled out at the migration service).

2. Passport (original and copy with translation into Ukrainian, certified by a notary).

3. Certificate from a religious organization confirming:

● invitation to perform canonical activities;

● registration of the organization in Ukraine.

4. Work permit (not required for religious activities, but may be a requirement for other types of activities).

5. Health insurance (the policy must cover the entire period of stay).

6. Receipt of payment of the administrative fee.

Step 2: Submission of documents

The documents are submitted to the local unit of the State Migration Service (SMS).

The application is considered within 15 working days.

Step 3: Obtaining a residence permit

If all the requirements are met, the applicant receives a temporary residence permit. The document is the basis for legal stay in Ukraine.

Special conditions for religious leaders

1. No work permit. Representatives of religious organizations are exempted from the obligation to obtain a work permit (Article 42(5) of the Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners”).

2. Support of the organization. The religious organization must confirm its readiness to support the activities of the foreign representative.

3. Extension of a residence permit. To extend the residence permit, you must submit a similar package of documents no later than 15 days before the expiration of the residence permit.

When can a residence permit be refused?

The main reasons for refusal may include the following:

● Incomplete package of documents;

● False information;

● Threat to the national security of Ukraine;

● Violation of migration legislation.

Obtaining a residence permit for representatives of religious organizations in Ukraine is a clearly regulated process. It is important to prepare all the documents, meet the deadlines and take into account the requirements of the law. To save time and avoid mistakes, contact Visit Ukraine lawyers. Our specialists will advise on the rules and procedure for applying for a residence permit and, if necessary, provide comprehensive support for the applicant. To make an appointment for a consultation, write to our managers in a messenger convenient for you (WhatsApp/Telegram) or fill out the form on the website.

We remind you! Obtaining an insurance policy is one of the key stages of obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine for foreigners. Read our previous article to find out what requirements the Migration Service sets for insurance, what the policy should cover, and how to properly obtain it.

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