Ukraine strengthens protection of the rights of foreign nationals defending the country alongside Ukrainians

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a draft law that clarifies and strengthens the legal status of foreign nationals and stateless persons participating in the defence of Ukraine.

The legislation concerns people who have come from other countries and joined the defence of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The state plans to establish clearer conditions governing their stay, residence and subsequent regularisation in Ukraine.

The draft law was developed by the Ministry for Veterans Affairs of Ukraine.

Proposed changes

The draft law proposes:

• extending the period of lawful temporary residence following the end of a military contract from three to six months, giving individuals more time to regularise their legal status;
• counting contractual military service towards the five-year residence requirement for obtaining an immigration permit;
• recognising a combatant certificate, a certificate confirming disability as a result of war, or a relevant extract from the Unified State Register of War Veterans as grounds for obtaining a temporary residence permit;
• establishing a separate immigration quota for foreign nationals who spent at least four months performing combat or service duties alongside units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine or the National Guard in areas of hostilities, as well as for those who were held in captivity;
• introducing a travel document for foreign nationals who are unable to obtain or renew a passport in their country of origin because of threats to their safety or political circumstances.

Why this matters

Foreign nationals and stateless persons who have joined the defence of Ukraine fight and perform vital duties alongside Ukrainian service personnel. They risk their lives, sustain injuries and are taken captive.

It is therefore important that, following their service, they receive not only Ukraine’s gratitude and respect but also clear legal guarantees enabling them to build their lives in the country.

The draft law will now be considered by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.

Ukraine takes care of those who defend its independence – regardless of the passport they hold.