Rules for men raising one or more children on their own: list of documents for crossing the border

A man who is raising one or more minor children on his own has the right to leave Ukraine during martial law, but only if he confirms his status with the relevant documents. Find out what rules apply in 2025 and what you need to cross the border

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During martial law in Ukraine, there are strict restrictions on the departure of men aged 18 to 60. However, the law provides for a number of exceptions. One of them is the right to leave for men who are raising a child under the age of 18 on their own.

In this article, we will look at who has this right in 2025, what documents need to be provided, and other exceptions that allow you to legally cross the border.

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Who can travel abroad in 2025: list of categories?

According to current legislation, as of June 2025, the following persons have the right to leave the country:

- Men who are recognized as unfit or partially fit for military service (based on a medical opinion).

- Those who have a deferral from mobilization (due to health, education, caregiving, etc.).

- Employees reserved by state bodies and critically important enterprises.

- Parents of three or more children under the age of 18.

- Men who are raising a child (children) under the age of 18 on their own.

- Persons accompanying a child with a disability or a seriously ill relative.

- Men whose wives have died, been deprived of parental rights, or are missing.

- Those leaving for medical treatment, education, or participation in sports or cultural events (upon confirmation).

- Drivers transporting humanitarian aid and volunteers.

- Men who have lost a close relative in the war or who are missing.

Before traveling, be sure to check the current entry rules for your destination country — on our website, you can easily find out the border crossing requirements for Ukrainians traveling to any country by following this link.

Raising a child alone: what does the law say?

According to paragraph 5 of Article 23 of the Law of Ukraine “On Mobilization Preparation and Mobilization,” traveling abroad is permitted:

“Women and men who are raising a child (children) under the age of 18 alone.”

However, in order to exercise this right, border guards must be provided with proof that the child is being raised by only one parent — that is, without the participation of the mother.

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What documents are required?

In order for a man to travel abroad as a single parent, he must provide:

The child's birth certificate.

Proof that the child's mother is not involved in raising the child, including one of the following documents:

- the mother's death certificate;

- a court decision depriving the mother of her parental rights;

- a court decision declaring the mother missing;

- a court decision declaring the mother deceased;

- a court decision removing the child from the mother's custody without depriving her of her rights;

Documents confirming that the man is not married (remarriage cancels the status of independent guardian).

Military registration document with current records of deferral, unsuitability, or confirmation of grounds for departure.

Ukrainian passport and foreign passport.

Important: if the man has remarried, even if all other documents are available, he is no longer considered an independent guardian and may be denied entry.

If you are planning a trip abroad, contact Visit Ukraine's migration lawyers who will help you check the legal grounds, prepare documents and explain the current requirements. This will help you avoid mistakes and undesirable situations at the border.

Is it possible to leave if there is only a court decision on divorce?

No. Divorce is not a reason for departure. There must be official documentary evidence that the child is being raised by only one parent.

What if the child lives with the father, but there is no court decision regarding the mother?

This situation does not constitute “sole custody” according to the requirements of the State Border Service of Ukraine. A court decision or other official document listed above is required.

I am married but am raising a child from my first marriage on my own. Can I leave?

Unfortunately, no. If you are married, regardless of who the child lives with, you are not considered an independent parent according to border service regulations.

How can I avoid being denied entry at the border?

✔️ Update your military registration data in advance (through the ASC, TCC, or the “Reserve+” e-service).

✔️ Prepare all documents in original and copies.

✔️ Avoid inconsistencies: for example, an unregistered remarriage or the absence of a court decision may be grounds for refusal.

✔️ Check if you have a military document with a record of unsuitability or deferral.

✔️ If in doubt, consult a lawyer or free legal aid.

Additional exceptions for departure if you do not fall under the category of single parent

If you have other grounds for departure, you should pay attention to:

accompanying a disabled child;

caring for a seriously ill relative;

official employment abroad under the “Shlyakh” program (through the e-Vorota platform);

contract-based education or treatment;

participation in international competitions, performances, forums.

If you are a single parent, you have the right to leave Ukraine even during martial law. However, you should be extremely careful when collecting documents and updating your military registration data. In 2025, border guards will thoroughly check the grounds for departure, and any discrepancies may result in refusal.

The main thing is not only to have a formal right, but also to confirm it with documents.

Remember that insurance is an important aspect that can save your finances in unforeseen situations.

You can purchase reliable travel insurance for a safe trip abroad on the Visit Ukraine portal in just a few minutes.

Choose the policy that best suits your needs and protect yourself while travelling!

Reminder! Before travelling abroad by car, it is important to familiarise yourself with the entry rules and document requirements of your destination country. Pay particular attention to the validity of all documents and ensure that you have the originals with you. What documents are required for travelling abroad by car — find out here.

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