The Ukrainian Government has approved a mechanism for issuing residence permits to foreigners and stateless persons who assist the Defence Forces of Ukraine

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has developed a Cabinet of Ministers' resolution titled "On the Approval of the Procedure for Obtaining Information Necessary for Processing Applications for Issuance of Temporary Residence Permits to Foreigners and Stateless Persons,” which was adopted by the Government at its session.

“We are strengthening the human capital of the Defence Forces, protecting foreigners and stateless persons who support our military in the fight against russian invaders. The Ministry of Defence has clarified the basis for issuing temporary residence permits to them in Ukraine. With the Government's decision, foreign volunteers providing support in areas such as firearms, tactical equipment, radio technology, explosives, medical assistance, and other forms of support will benefit from enhanced protection measures. This Resolution also enhances the protection of foreigners who are directly involved in areas of combat operations and have been performing combat or service tasks alongside our units for at least six months,” said Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Brigadier General of Justice Serhii Melnyk.

The aforementioned Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine defines, in particular, the following:

• A mechanism for obtaining information about foreigners or stateless persons who provide or have provided assistance to military units in areas of combat operations;

• Requirements for the application by a foreigner or a stateless person (or their representative);

• The procedure and timeline for the consideration of the application by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Internal Affairs; 

• Issuance by the commanders of military units of a confirmation letter confirming that the foreigner or stateless person assisted military units, was directly present in combat areas, and participated with such units in executing combat or service tasks.

• A mechanism for submitting documents to the State Migration Service that serves as the basis for issuing a temporary residence permit and notifying a foreigner or a stateless person accordingly.

A new basis for issuing a temporary residence permit in Ukraine to foreigners and stateless persons who, during the period of martial law in Ukraine, provide or have assisted the Defence Forces in repelling russian aggression is established by Law No. 3897-IX of 20.08.2024.