Obtaining Combatant Status: Key updates and step-by-step guide

Service members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations who have participated or are currently participating in combat operations are eligible to obtain Combatant Status. This status entitles them to state benefits and social guarantees.

How to obtain Combatant Status

“Combatant Status can be obtained through two methods. The first method is automatic registration via the Unified State Register of War Veterans, where authorized personnel from military units are required to enter relevant information within five days of the start of a combat mission. The second method involves submitting documents directly to one of the 21 Ministry of Defence commissions tasked with reviewing such applications,” explained Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Brigadier General of Justice Serhii Melnyk.

For direct applications, the following documents must be submitted:

• A completed application form following the approved template;
• Two 3x4 cm photographs on matte paper;
• Documents verifying participation in combat operations.

Applications should be sent by postal mail to the commission of the military command authority to which the military unit is subordinated. If original documents related to an applicant are unavailable, the commission can independently obtain them through interagency coordination.

Application processing timelines

• Data entered into the Unified State Register of War Veterans is processed automatically in real time.
• Commissions issue decisions within one month from the date of application receipt.

Potential reasons for denial of Combatant Status

Combatant Status may be denied in the following cases:

• Lack of legal grounds or required documentation;
• Submission of false information;
• A court conviction for an intentional serious or particularly serious crime committed during combat operations.

Commission decisions can be appealed through judicial proceedings. If the reasons for denial are resolved, applicants may resubmit their documents.

Procedure for lost Combatant Status certificates

• Active-duty service members must submit a report to their unit commander.
• Discharged service members must submit an application to the Territorial Recruitment and Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers (TRSSCs) at their place of registration.
• The document can only be reinstated after submitting an application to the National Police reporting the loss of the certificate and publishing a notice regarding its invalidity in print media.

“Service members who have been captured or declared missing in action are also eligible for Combatant Status, except for those who voluntarily surrendered or deserted. Their applications are submitted by their unit commanders,” clarified Serhii Melnyk.

Detailed information on the Combatant Status application process, commission contact details, and application templates are available on the social.mil.gov.ua website.