Residence Permit Laws and Processes as an Expat in Ukraine

1. What is the required duration of stay before qualifying for a residence permit in Ukraine?

The required duration of stay before qualifying for a residence permit in Ukraine varies depending on the purpose of stay. Generally, if you are applying for a temporary residence permit, you must have legal continuous residence in Ukraine for at least one year. If you are applying for a permanent residence permit, you must have legal continuous residence in Ukraine for at least five years.

2. Can I apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Ukraine?
No, you cannot apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Ukraine. You must enter Ukraine with a valid visa or obtain a visa on arrival, and then register your place of residence within 30 days of arrival. After fulfilling the required duration of stay and meeting other eligibility criteria, you can then apply for a residence permit.

3. How do I renew my Ukrainian residence permit?
You can renew your Ukrainian residence permit by submitting an application to the State Migration Service of Ukraine no later than 10 days prior to the expiration date of your current permit. You must provide all necessary documents and pay the relevant fees. The renewal process may take up to 15 business days.

4. Can my family members also obtain a residence permit if I have one?
Yes, your family members (spouse and children) can also obtain a Ukrainian residence permit if you hold one as long as they meet the necessary requirements and submit their own separate applications.

5. Are there any investment options available for obtaining a Ukrainian residency?
Yes, there is an option to obtain residency through investment in certain economic sectors or regions designated by the Government of Ukraine. This includes investing in businesses, real estate, or government bonds. The minimum investment amount ranges from USD 100,000 to USD 500,000 depending on the category chosen.

6. What is the timeframe for processing a residency application in Ukraine?
The timeline for processing a residency application in Ukraine varies depending on individual circumstances and can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

7. Can I work in Ukraine with a residence permit?
Yes, you can work in Ukraine with a valid residence permit. However, you must obtain a work permit or obtain an employment-related visa if you do not have a residence permit. Some categories of foreign nationals are exempt from this requirement.

8. What happens if my Ukrainian residence permit expires while I am outside of the country?
If your residence permit expires while you are outside of Ukraine, it will become invalid upon re-entry to the country. You must apply for renewal before leaving or arrange for someone to submit the application on your behalf.

9. Can I travel outside of Ukraine with a residence permit?
Yes, you can travel outside of Ukraine with a valid residence permit and re-enter the country without additional visas as long as your residency is still valid.

10. Can I apply for citizenship in Ukraine with a residence permit?
No, you cannot apply for citizenship based solely on a residence permit in Ukraine. To become eligible for citizenship, you must first hold permanent residency status and fulfill other requirements such as knowing the Ukrainian language and passing a citizenship exam.

2. Are there different types of residence permits available for expats in Ukraine?

Yes, there are different types of residence permits available for expats in Ukraine. These include temporary residency permits and permanent residency permits.

Temporary residency permits are issued for a period of up to one year and can be renewed annually. They are available to foreign nationals who plan to stay in Ukraine for a certain period of time, such as students, employees working on short-term contracts, or individuals seeking medical treatment.

Permanent residency permits are issued for an indefinite period of time and do not need to be renewed. They are available to expats who have lived in Ukraine continuously for at least 5 years on a temporary residence permit and meet other requirements, such as having a stable source of income and passing a Ukrainian language test.

3. What are the eligibility criteria for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine?
The eligibility criteria for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine vary depending on the type of permit you are applying for. Generally, you would need to provide proof of your purpose of stay (such as employment contract or admission letter from a university), proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay, valid health insurance coverage, and no criminal record.

For permanent residency permits, you would also need to demonstrate that you have been living in Ukraine continuously for at least 5 years on a temporary residence permit and pass a Ukrainian language test.

4. How do I apply for a residence permit in Ukraine?
To apply for a residence permit in Ukraine, you would need to submit your application at the State Migration Service office (SMS) or at the Ukrainian embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to submit all required documents and pay the necessary fees. The exact process may vary depending on your country of citizenship and the type of residence permit you are applying for.

It is recommended to contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy or consulate or consult with an immigration lawyer for more specific information about the application process.

5. Can I work with a residence permit in Ukraine?
Yes, you can work with a residence permit in Ukraine. If you have a temporary residence permit, you are allowed to work in Ukraine as an employee for the company that sponsored your permit. If you have a permanent residency permit, you are allowed to work in any field without restrictions.

6. Can I bring my family members with me on my residence permit?
Yes, you can bring your family members with you on your residence permit. Family members include your spouse and children under the age of 18. If they plan to join you later, they can do so by obtaining a family reunion visa and then applying for a residence permit in Ukraine.

7. What are the potential reasons for my residence permit application to be rejected?
Your residence permit application may be rejected if you do not meet the eligibility criteria, such as not having enough financial means or failing a language test (for permanent residency permits). It could also be rejected if there is incorrect or incomplete information provided in your application or if there is evidence of falsification or fraudulent documents.

In some cases, it may be possible to appeal the decision or reapply with corrections or additional documentation.

8. Can I travel outside of Ukraine with my residence permit?
Yes, you can travel outside of Ukraine with your residence permit as long as it is still valid. However, it is recommended to check the entry requirements of the country you plan to visit beforehand as some countries may require additional visas for foreign residents of Ukraine.

You should also inform the State Migration Service if you plan to stay outside of Ukraine for more than 90 days within one year so that they do not consider your residency abandoned.

9. Can I apply for Ukrainian citizenship through my residence permit?
No, holding a Ukrainian residence permit does not automatically make you eligible for Ukrainian citizenship. You would need to fulfill specific criteria and go through a separate application process for naturalization as a Ukrainian citizen.

The requirements for citizenship include being a permanent resident of Ukraine for at least 5 years, having sufficient knowledge of the Ukrainian language, and renouncing your current citizenship (in some cases).

10. Is it possible to obtain dual citizenship in Ukraine?
No, dual citizenship is not permitted in Ukraine. If you acquire Ukrainian citizenship, you would need to renounce your current citizenship unless it is one of the few exceptions recognized under Ukrainian law (such as being a citizen of a country that does not allow its citizens to renounce their citizenship).

3. How long is the processing time for a residence permit application in Ukraine?


The processing time for a residence permit application in Ukraine can vary, but it typically takes around 15-20 business days to review and issue the permit. However, this timeframe can be longer if additional documents or further clarifications are required. It is recommended to submit the application at least three months before the intended date of residence in Ukraine to allow for any potential delays.

4. Can I apply for a residence permit while still living outside of Ukraine?

No, you must be present in Ukraine to apply for a residence permit.

5. Are there any restrictions or eligibility requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine?

To obtain a residence permit in Ukraine, an individual must fulfill certain eligibility requirements and may be subject to restrictions. Some common requirements include having a valid reason for residency (such as employment, study, or family reunification), passing a language test, providing proof of financial stability, and having a valid passport. Restrictions may apply for certain nationalities or if the individual has a criminal record. Additionally, individuals must follow the proper application process and provide all necessary documents.

6. Is it possible to work with a residence permit in Ukraine, or do I need additional work authorization?

According to Ukrainian law, foreign nationals holding a valid residence permit may work in Ukraine without needing additional work authorization. However, the specific terms and conditions of your residency and employment may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of residence permit you hold. It is best to consult with Ukrainian immigration authorities or a legal professional for more detailed information.

7. Do I need to show proof of financial stability in order to obtain a residence permit in Ukraine?


Yes, you may be required to show proof of financial stability as part of the residence permit application process in Ukraine. This could include bank statements, employment contracts, or other documents demonstrating that you have a steady source of income to support yourself during your stay in the country. Some specific types of residence permits, such as the permanent residence permit, may also have minimum income requirements that must be met. It is best to consult with a legal advisor or immigration officer for specific requirements related to your individual situation.

8. Can I bring my family members with me on my residence permit in Ukraine?

Yes, you can bring your immediate family members (spouse and children under 18) with you on your residence permit in Ukraine. They will also need to apply for a residence permit based on your status as a legal resident in the country. You will need to provide supporting documents such as marriage certificate and birth certificates for your children, and they will also need to go through the same application process as you.

9. What documentation is needed for a residence permit application in Ukraine?

To apply for a residence permit in Ukraine, you will need the following documentation:

1. Passport or equivalent document that proves your identity and nationality. Your passport must have at least one year of validity left before it expires.

2. Completed application form. This can be obtained from the State Migration Service office or downloaded from their website.

3. A recent photograph (3×4 cm) that meets Ukrainian visa photo requirements.

4. Proof of legal residence in Ukraine, such as a valid visa, certificate of temporary residence, or any other relevant document.

5. Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Ukraine, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.

6. A notarized copy of your employment contract if you are working in Ukraine, or a notarized copy of your pensioner’s benefit certificate if you are retired.

7. Medical insurance policy covering healthcare expenses in Ukraine (valid for at least one year). The insurance policy must meet the minimum coverage requirements set by the Ukrainian government.

8. Police clearance certificate from your country of origin and any other country where you have lived for more than six months over the last three years.

9. For students: an enrollment letter from a recognized educational institution in Ukraine and proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

10. Marriage certificate (if applicable) and birth certificates for any accompanying family members.

10. How long is the validity period of a residence permit in Ukraine?


The validity period of a residence permit in Ukraine depends on the type of residence permit obtained.

1. Temporary Residence Permit: The initial validity period of a temporary residence permit is one year, with the option to extend it for an additional one or two years. After that, it can be renewed for up to 10 years.
2. Permanent Residence Permit: A permanent residence permit is valid for an unlimited amount of time, but it needs to be replaced every 10 years.
3. Prolonged Permanent Residence Permit: This type of residence permit is valid for up to ten years and can be extended multiple times without limit.
4. Short-Term Residence Permit: A short-term residence permit is issued for a maximum of six months and cannot be extended.
5. Specialized Purpose Visa: The validity period of this visa depends on the purpose stated in the application and can range from three months to three years.

It should also be noted that all types of residence permits are subject to regular checks by authorities and may be revoked if the grounds for issuing them are no longer valid or if the person violates Ukrainian laws.

11. Can I renew my residence permit before it expires, and if so, how far in advance?


Yes, you can renew your residence permit before it expires. The specific timeline for renewal depends on the country where you are residing and the type of residence permit you hold. Some countries allow for renewal up to 6 months before the expiration date, while others may only allow a few weeks in advance. It is important to check with your local immigration authority for the specific renewal process and timeline for your situation.

12. Is there an age limit for applying for a residence permit in Ukraine?

There is no specific age limit for applying for a residence permit in Ukraine. However, applicants will still need to meet the necessary requirements and eligibility criteria for obtaining a residence permit, such as having a valid reason for staying in the country and sufficient financial means to support themselves.

13. What are the fees associated with obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine as an expat?


The fees for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine as an expat depend on the type of residence permit you are applying for and the length of validity. The following are the approximate fees for each type of residence permit:

1. Temporary residence permit – 6,825 UAH (valid for up to 3 years)
2. Permanent residence permit – 17,969 UAH (valid indefinitely)
3. Long-term visa type D – 2,300 UAH (for first-time applicants) or 1,150 UAH (for renewal)
4. First-time registration – 340 UAH
5. Extension/renewal – 816 UAH
6. Registration changes (such as change in address or passport information) – 51 UAH

Please note that these fees may vary depending on your country of origin and any additional services you may require. It is recommended to consult with a local immigration lawyer for the most accurate fees and information relevant to your specific situation.

14. Are there any additional requirements or procedures for students seeking a residence permit in Ukraine?


Yes, there are several additional requirements and procedures for students seeking a residence permit in Ukraine:

1. Obtaining an invitation from a recognized educational institution in Ukraine: Before applying for a residence permit, students must first receive an official invitation from their chosen educational institution in Ukraine.

2. Health Insurance: Students are required to have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Ukraine.

3. Medical Examination: Students may be required to undergo a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate stating that they do not have any contagious diseases.

4. Financial Proof: Students must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their living expenses while studying in Ukraine.

5. Passport Validity: The student’s passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in Ukraine.

6. Visa Requirements: Depending on their nationality, students may need to obtain a student visa before traveling to Ukraine.

7. Residence Permit Application: Once all the necessary documents are obtained, students can apply for a residence permit at the State Migration Service of Ukraine (SMS). Applications can also be submitted online through the SMS website.

8. Biometric data collection: As part of the residence permit application process, students will be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints) at a designated location.

9. Timeline: The entire residence permit application process can take up to 15 working days from the date of submission.

10. Registration with local authorities: Upon arrival in Ukraine, within 30 days, students must register with local authorities where they will study or reside.

11. Renewal/Extension of Residence Permit: Students must renew or extend their residence permits annually at least 15 days before its expiration date by submitting all necessary documents and paying applicable fees.

12. Additional Documents for Minor Students: If you are under 18 years old, you may need to provide additional documents such as notarized parental consent and proof of sufficient financial support from your parents or legal guardian.

13. Change of Residential Address: Students must inform the SMS of any changes to their residential address within 10 days.

14. Exit Procedure: Before leaving Ukraine, students must inform the SMS and return their residence permit. Failure to do so may result in difficulties when re-entering Ukraine in the future.

15. Do I need to undergo medical examinations or vaccinations as part of the residence permit process in Ukraine?.

Yes, there are certain medical examinations that are required as part of the residence permit process in Ukraine. These include a general health check-up, chest x-ray for tuberculosis, and tests for certain infectious diseases.

Vaccinations may also be required depending on your age and medical history. The specific vaccinations needed will vary, but common ones include measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus. It is best to consult with a doctor or immigration official to determine which vaccinations you may need.

Keep in mind that any medical examinations or vaccinations must be done at an approved medical facility recognized by the Ukrainian government. Results from these examinations and vaccinations will be submitted along with your application for a residence permit.

16. Is there an interview process involved when applying for a residence permit in Ukraine?

Yes, there may be an interview process involved when applying for a residence permit in Ukraine. The exact requirements and process may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of residence permit you are applying for. In most cases, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents to the State Migration Service of Ukraine, and then attend an interview at their office. During the interview, you may be asked questions about your reasons for wanting to live in Ukraine, your background and qualifications, and your ties to the country. You may also be asked to provide additional documentation or clarifications on certain aspects of your application.

17.YAre there any penalties or consequences if my residence permit expires and I have not renewed it?

The penalties and consequences for failing to renew a residence permit vary depending on the country in which you reside. In some cases, there may be fines or administrative fees that must be paid upon renewal. In more severe cases, if you let your residence permit expire without renewing it, you could face deportation or other legal consequences such as being banned from re-entering the country.

It is important to regularly check the expiration date of your residence permit and plan ahead for renewals to avoid any potential penalties or consequences. If you are unable to renew your permit before it expires, make sure to contact the relevant government agency as soon as possible to explain your situation and request an extension or alternative solution.

18.Can my employer sponsor me for a work-related residency visa instead of going through the standard process?


Yes, in some cases your employer may be able to sponsor you for a work-related residency visa. This can vary depending on the laws and regulations of the country you are planning to work in. It is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or your employer’s HR department for specific information about the sponsorship process for a work-related residency visa.

19.What happens if my residency visa application gets rejected by authorities?

If your residency visa application gets rejected, you should receive a letter explaining the reason for the rejection. You may be able to reapply after addressing the issues outlined in the letter, depending on the specific circumstances. If you are unable to address the issues or if your application is rejected again, you may need to consult with an immigration lawyer for guidance on next steps and any legal options available to you. It is important to note that visa rejections are not uncommon and do not necessarily reflect upon your personal character or reputation.

20.Can my siblings or other extended family members join me on my residence permit in Ukraine?


No, only immediate family members (i.e. spouse and minor children) can be included on a residence permit in Ukraine. Siblings or other extended family members would need to apply for their own separate residence permits if they wish to live in Ukraine permanently.