Rules for volunteers entering Ukraine: required documents and changes in 2025

Volunteering in Ukraine in 2025 has its own rules and requirements for foreigners. Find out what documents you need to enter the country, apply for a visa, and obtain a residence permit

Legal assistance on entry, stay and legalization of foreigners in Ukraine

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Hundreds of foreigners come to Ukraine every day to participate in humanitarian, educational, medical, and other projects. Volunteering has become an integral part of international support during the war. However, entry rules for volunteers have their own peculiarities, which are important to know before traveling. In this article, we will tell you about all the basic entry requirements and documents you need to know if you plan to come to Ukraine as a volunteer.

General rules for entry into Ukraine in 2025

To cross the border, foreigners need:

1. A foreign passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry.

2. A visa or visa waiver. Citizens of the EU, the US, and a number of other countries can enter without a visa for 90 days within a 180-day period. From February 2025, the issuance of electronic visas (e-Visas) for citizens of 42 countries has been resumed. They are suitable for short trips of up to 30 days and can be single or double entry. Do you need a visa to enter Ukraine? Read our previous article to find out.

3. Medical insurance is mandatory for all foreigners. We recommend taking out an insurance policy that covers military risks.

4. A document confirming the purpose of entry — an invitation from an organization, a contract, a hotel reservation, or other confirmation.

Volunteering as a basis for legal stay

● Short-term volunteering (up to 90 days). Foreigners from visa-free countries can volunteer in Ukraine for up to 90 days without a special visa. However, you must have an invitation from an organization confirming the purpose of your visit.

● Long-term volunteering (more than 90 days). If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a D-10 (“volunteer”) visa, which can be obtained at a Ukrainian consulate or embassy abroad.

Documents required for a D-10 visa

1. Completed visa application form;

2. Foreign passport (valid and with at least two blank pages);

3. Photograph (35×45 mm);

4. Invitation from a charitable or volunteer organization, as well as copies of its registration documents;

5. Proof of financial support;

6. Medical insurance policy for the entire duration of the visa;

7. Receipt of payment of the consular fee;

8. Additional documents may be requested (translation, notarized copies, etc.).

Please note! In May 2025, the Verkhovna Rada adopted in the first reading draft law No. 13071, which provides for the temporary abolition of the D-10 visa for volunteers. It currently requires approval in the second reading and the signature of the President of Ukraine. If the bill is finally adopted, the procedure will be significantly simplified and foreign volunteers will be able to enter Ukraine without obtaining visas, which will greatly facilitate the coordination of humanitarian efforts.

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Temporary residence permit (TRP) on the basis of volunteering

Temporary residence permit (TRP) for volunteers — issued for one year with the possibility of extension. To obtain it, the organization inviting the volunteer must be registered with the National Social Service (NSSU). The organization is responsible for the financial support, accommodation, and legality of the volunteer's stay.

Currently, the permit can only be obtained after receiving a D-10 visa. To submit documents, you also need an official agreement or invitation signed between the volunteer and the inviting organization. To submit documents, you must contact the Migration Service of Ukraine.

Volunteering as a path to citizenship

In some cases, foreigners who have made a significant contribution to the development of Ukraine or provided assistance during the war (volunteering, military service) may apply for citizenship. This decision is made by the President of Ukraine based on the recommendations of the relevant commission. In some cases, it is possible to waive the standard requirements (five years of residence, language tests, income).

Current changes in 2025 for foreign volunteers in Ukraine

1. E-Visa applications have been resumed for 42 countries.

2. Medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for all foreigners.

3. A temporary residence permit is issued only if the inviting organization is properly registered.

4. A law on the temporary abolition of the D-10 visa for volunteers is currently being considered. If it comes into force, it will be easier for foreigners to come and work in the humanitarian field.

How to prepare for your trip: recommendations for volunteers

1. Determine the length of your stay: up to 90 days (visa-free or e-Visa) or longer (D-10 visa + TPP).

2. Select an organization that is authorized to officially invite foreigners in advance.

3. Get medical insurance that covers war risks. Without a policy, you won't be able to enter Ukraine.

4. If you're planning a long stay, get all the documents you need for a visa or residence permit.

5. Keep an eye on changes in the law, as the rules can change.

Since the rules of stay and document requirements for volunteers will change in 2025, we recommend that you consult with immigration lawyers. Visit Ukraine provides professional assistance to foreigners in preparing documents for visas, residence permits, and accompanies the legalization process.

We remind you! Obtaining an insurance policy is one of the key steps in obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine for foreigners. Read about the requirements of the migration service for insurance in 2025, what the policy should cover, and how to properly obtain it in our previous article.

Photo: Depositphotos

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