Validity period of residence permits during martial law in Ukraine
According to the Government decision, foreigners with temporary and permanent residence permits in Ukraine, the validity of which expired during the war, after 02.24.2022:
- are those who are legally present in Ukraine during the period of martial law and within 30 days from the day of its end*;
- have the right to enter and legally stay on the territory of Ukraine during the period of martial law and within 30 days from the day of its end*.
*the above-mentioned norms do not apply to citizens of the russian federation.
However, such permits must be prolonged (i.e., exchanged for new ones) within 30 days of the end of martial law.
Of course, it will be possible to do this only if the foreigner still has the grounds to apply for a permit exchange.
For example: the marriage has not been dissolved, the employment permit has been extended, and it is valid at the time of applying for the exchange of the permit, the student is still studying at a university, etc.
But, if you are located and live in Ukraine, or plan to come and stay in Ukraine for a long period, we recommend, if possible, exchanging residence permits so that your document are currently valid.
Not all government officials, notaries, police officers and military personnel at checkpoints know about the above-mentioned resolution. Therefore, in order to avoid unnecessary problems with proving the legality of your stay in Ukraine and obtaining the necessary documents, we recommend promptly updating and extending your residence permit and permanent residence permit during the war.
