A residence permit is an important document for all foreigners who have decided to settle in Ukraine. Find out what types of permits exist, the current procedure for applying for a permit in 2025, and how to avoid problems when applying for the document

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A residence permit in Ukraine is an official document that allows foreigners and stateless persons to legally reside in the country. It can be temporary (up to 3 years) and permanent (indefinite). Let's consider who can get it, what documents are needed and what steps should be taken.

Types of residence permits

- Temporary residence permit

Issued on the basis of a temporary residence permit, usually for a period of up to 1 year with the possibility of extension. It can be obtained by:

1. Employees of Ukrainian companies (under an employment contract).

2. Students of Ukrainian universities.

3. Participants in volunteer or religious organizations.

4. Family members of persons who already have a permit.

5. Journalists and employees of international organizations.

- Permanent residence permit

Issued on the basis of an immigration permit. It can be obtained by:

1. Foreigners who have relatives who are citizens of Ukraine.

2. Spouses of Ukrainian citizens after 2 years of marriage.

3. Foreigners who have the right to Ukrainian citizenship.

4. Investors who have invested more than 100 thousand US dollars in the economy of Ukraine.

5. Some specialists and scientists and cultural figures.

Procedure for obtaining a residence permit

- For a temporary permit:

1. Reason for stay: contract with an employer, certificate from the university, etc.

2. Package of documents:

- passport (with translation into Ukrainian);

- a document confirming the reason for obtaining a permit;

- insurance policy;

- receipt for payment of state duty.

3. Submission of an application to the State Migration Service (SMS) at the place of registration.

4. Obtaining a permit - up to 15 working days.

- For a permanent residence permit:

1. Obtaining an immigration permit (consideration up to 1 year).

2. Collection of documents:

- passport with translation;

- document confirming the basis for residence;

- medical certificate of absence of infectious diseases;

- certificate of no criminal record.

3. Submitting an application to the State Migration Service.

4. Obtaining a permit - up to 15 days after approval of the immigration permit.

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Rights and obligations of permit holders

- Foreigners with a permit have the right to:

1. Live and work in Ukraine without additional permits (for a permanent residence permit).

2. Receive medical services and education.

3. Open a business.

- Obligations include:

1. Registering the place of residence within 30 days after receiving the document.

2. Updating the document in case of data changes or expiration.

Obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine is a completely realistic procedure, provided that all formalities are followed. It is important to prepare the documents correctly and adhere to the application deadlines in order to avoid refusal or problems with legal stay.

Visit World lawyers will be able to help you with the registration of this service quickly and without problems. Contact a specialist today!

Let us remind you! Travel, moving, employment or doing business in a new country is always associated with the registration of permits. The Visit World team of lawyers offers a number of services that will help an expat change their country of residence. We have already told you what issues Visit World experts can help you with.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.

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We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.