The Verkhovna Rada on October 27 adopted a law extending the deadlines for issuing temporary residence permits to foreigners and stateless persons serving in the Defense Forces of Ukraine. Instead of six months for submitting documents for this category of military personnel, one year is provided.
This was reported by the press service of the Verkhovna Rada. Draft law No. 16094 was supported by the parliament as a basis and as a whole, taking into account the proposals of the relevant committee. 282 MPs voted for the corresponding decision.
The main change concerns foreigners who signed military contracts before May 10, 2026. They receive additional time to apply for a temporary residence permit - until May 10, 2027.
According to previous rules, such servicemen had to formalize documents by November 10, 2026. Accordingly, only two weeks remained until the end of the established period.
The parliament explained that some foreign defenders did not manage to obtain residence permits due to the performance of combat missions and other circumstances related to military service.
Without extension of the term, these servicemen could lose proper documentary confirmation of the legality of their stay in Ukraine. This created a risk of legal difficulties even for people who continue to defend the state under contract.
The new provisions apply to foreigners and stateless persons serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard and the State Special Transport Service.
The law also clarifies the procedure for legal stay in Ukraine after concluding a military contract. Until obtaining a residence permit, the relevant persons may stay in the country legally during a certain transitional period, which is up to three months from the date of conclusion of the contract.
Certain provisions concern servicemen who have completed service and need time to settle their migration status.
Earlier, the Ministry of Defense developed recommendations for military units on issuing residence permits to foreign volunteers. They define the procedure for checking documents, preparing applications and interacting with the State Migration Service.
According to these recommendations, processing of a residence permit after the State Migration Service receives the documents usually takes up to 15 working days.
A temporary residence permit is necessary for foreign servicemen not only to confirm the legality of their stay in Ukraine. The document also simplifies access to banking, notarial, medical and other services.
The Verkhovna Rada noted that the new law enters into force on the day following the day of its official publication. For this, the document must undergo the procedure of signing and promulgation.
Based on materials: Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Draft Law No. 16094, Ministry of Defense of Ukraine
