5 key mistakes foreigners make when moving and investing in Ukraine and how to avoid them

When moving and investing in Ukraine, foreigners often encounter legal difficulties. Find out the five most common mistakes foreigners make — and how to avoid risks and protect yourself

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In recent years, Ukraine has been increasingly attracting the attention of foreign citizens — not only as a country for temporary residence, but also as a promising destination for business and investment. Favorable conditions for starting a business, a growing IT sector, a developed agricultural market, and the possibility of legalization through investment — all this makes the country attractive to citizens of other countries. At the same time, misjudging risks and ignorance of local legal realities can lead to serious mistakes. This article highlights the five most common mistakes foreigners make when moving to Ukraine and investing, and offers advice on how to avoid them.

Top 5 mistakes to avoid when moving and investing in Ukraine

1. Ignoring the correct grounds for a residence permit

Common mistake: Some foreigners try to obtain a residence permit without clear grounds or with unreliable documents, such as fictitious employment contracts. This approach may result in the refusal of a residence permit and, in some cases, even a ban on entry into Ukraine.

How to avoid: Choose a legal basis that truly corresponds to your purpose of stay in Ukraine. This could be, for example:

● employment,

● marriage to a Ukrainian citizen,

● study,

● volunteering,

● investment (from $100,000 in a registered company).

Each of these options requires the submission of a clearly defined list of documents. They should be prepared in accordance with current legislation, without haste, preferably with the support of a specialized lawyer.

Read also: Do you need to leave Ukraine to obtain a long-term D visa for a residence permit?

2. Failure to check real estate or business before purchase

Common mistake: Foreigners often buy real estate or enter into business without conducting a full due diligence check on the investment object. As a result, they lose their investment and risk getting caught up in lengthy legal disputes.

How to avoid: Hire a Ukrainian lawyer to check the property, ownership rights, credit history of the company, the existence of legal disputes, etc. This minimizes risks and gives you a complete picture of the future investment. Without the help of a specialist, it is difficult to identify hidden risks and be confident in the transparency of the transaction.

Read also: What businesses do foreigners open in Ukraine to obtain a residence permit – the article covers everything about profitable areas and legal nuances.

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3. Use of template contracts without localization for Ukrainian legislation

Common mistake: Use of standard contracts drawn up under the laws of other countries without adaptation to Ukrainian realities. Such contracts may be invalid or create legal difficulties when resolving disputes.

How to avoid: All agreements (sale and purchase, lease, partnership, etc.) must be drafted or adapted in accordance with Ukrainian law, taking into account local court practice. Drawing up contracts that take into account local requirements is not just about using the “right language,” but also about protecting your interests in the event of conflicts or violations of the terms and conditions by your partners.

Read also: How to find a reliable business partner in Ukraine as a foreigner.

4. Failure to comply with the terms of legalization of stay

Common mistake: Some foreigners stay in Ukraine for more than the permitted 90 days (under the visa-free regime) without properly obtaining a residence permit (residence card). Failure to comply with the deadlines may result in administrative liability, fines, or a ban on entry.

How to avoid: Plan to submit your documents for a residence permit in advance. The procedure for obtaining a residence permit takes an average of 15 to 30 working days. Do not delay in submitting your application — consult with immigration lawyers immediately after entering the country to meet the deadlines.

5. Lack of tax planning

Common mistake: Foreigners do not take into account the peculiarities of Ukrainian tax legislation and the risks of double taxation.

How to avoid: First of all, consult a lawyer. Also, avoid schemes with “nominal” owners and be sure to open a bank account only after checking its requirements for non-residents. Do not forget to consider the possibility of double taxation, especially if you have tax obligations in your country of citizenship.

Legal support is the key to security when moving and investing in Ukraine

Ukraine is a country with great investment potential and wide opportunities for foreign citizens. However, entering the legal field requires knowledge and experience. Legal support is not an additional expense, but a strategic investment in your peace of mind and security.

So, if you are planning to move or start a business in Ukraine, contact the professionals. Visit Ukraine lawyers will assist you at every stage — from the initial consultation to full legal support for the process of legalization, investment, or real estate purchase. Our specialists know how to protect your interests — legally, effectively, and stress-free.

We remind you! In 2025, Ukraine will offer a wide range of tax incentives for foreign investors. Read about the incentives available and how to use them effectively in our previous article.

Photo: Depositphotos

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