Deferral due to disability: which groups are not subject to mobilisation and whether it is possible to travel abroad

Special rules for people with disabilities continue to apply in Ukraine during mobilisation, and many still do not understand whether they provide guaranteed protection and the right to travel abroad. Find out what rights people with disabilities and their companions have

Legal advice for Ukrainians

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The issue of mobilising people with disabilities in Ukraine remains one of the most sensitive and important. Men of conscription age want to understand whether disability entitles them to deferment, how to properly complete the paperwork, and whether they are allowed to travel abroad.

Who with disabilities will not be mobilised

According to Article 23 of the Law of Ukraine ‘On Mobilisation Preparation and Mobilisation’, citizens who are officially recognised as persons with disabilities are exempt from conscription into military service during mobilisation.

Important: The law does not divide the right to deferment by disability group. This means that any person with an official disability status (I, II or III group) is entitled to a deferral from mobilisation.

At the same time, such citizens may serve voluntarily under contract if they so wish. However, mobilisation is possible if a person has a disability but has not applied for a deferral in the prescribed manner.

How to apply for a deferral due to disability

Previously, it was necessary to apply in person to the TCC (military registration and enlistment office). Now the procedure has been simplified.

You can apply for a deferral:

▪️ through the ASC;

▪️ through the ‘Reserve+’ app.

To do this, you must submit documents confirming your disability, for example:

1. a certificate from the Medical and Social Expert Commission (MSEC);

2. an extract from the functional status assessment commission;

3. a disability certificate;

4. a pension certificate with a disability mark;

5. a certificate for the provision of benefits.

This allows you to apply for a deferral without visiting the TCC in person.

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How long is the deferral granted for?

The deferral is granted for the entire period of validity of the Presidential Decree on mobilisation and is automatically extended if the disability remains valid.

The extension is done through the ‘Reserve+’ app — the user receives a notification if the grounds are confirmed.

Is it possible to travel abroad with a disability?

Yes. Men between the ages of 18 and 60 who have a disability are entitled to travel abroad if they have:

▪️ Group I disability;

▪️ Group II disability;

▪️ Group III disability.

In other words, any disability status entitles you to cross the border if you have supporting documents.

Who else can travel as an accompanying person

The following persons also have the right to travel:

▪️ The husband/wife of a person with any group of disability

▪️ One of the parents or both parents of a husband/wife with Group I–II disability

▪️ Persons who provide constant care for a person with a Group I–II disability

▪️ Parents, guardians, foster parents who are raising a child with a disability under the age of 18

▪️ Parents who are supporting an adult child with a Group I–II disability

▪️ Guardians of persons with disabilities

Reminder! In 2026, Ukraine is expected to see important changes in the area of military service and social support for defenders. These include new approaches to contracts, increased financial guarantees, and expanded assistance programmes for military personnel, veterans, and their families. Learn more about the key decisions that the state plans to implement.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

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