Government adopts bill on the legal status of foreigners defending Ukraine

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has endorsed a bill drafted by the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine, which specifies the legal status of foreigners and stateless persons participating in the protection of the territorial integrity and inviolability of our state.

The document aims to create a clear and fair legal basis for the stay in Ukraine of foreigners who are fighting in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other defense forces, providing military or humanitarian assistance, as well as for their family members.

Currently, thousands of foreigners of different nationalities, religions, and professions serve in the Ukrainian defense forces. They have become part of our struggle, fighting alongside Ukrainians, rescuing the wounded, and helping communities. This bill acknowledges their courage and demonstrates that the state values everyone who stands on the side of freedom.

The document provides for an increase in the period of legal stay in Ukraine after the end of the contract, the introduction of a special immigration quota for foreigners who provided assistance to the Ukrainian defense forces or were held captive, as well as the determination of additional documents confirming the status of a combatant or a person with a war-related disability. In addition, it provides for the introduction of a special certificate for travel abroad in cases where passport renewal requires an application to the aggressor country or a state that does not recognize the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

The adoption of this bill is a sign of gratitude and respect for people who, without having Ukrainian citizenship, consciously stood up to defend our state. Ukraine is shaping a fair and mature state policy in which everyone who defends its independence can count on protection, support, and recognition.

After approval by the Government, the document will be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for consideration. Its approval will be another step towards strengthening the system of state support for those who chose Ukraine not by chance, but by conviction — as a nation of freedom that is worth defending.