How many foreigners work in Ukraine and how has their number changed since the start of the war?

The war has significantly changed the situation on the Ukrainian labour market, reducing the number of foreign workers. Find out how this has affected the employment process and what steps you need to take to legalise your work in Ukraine

The number of foreign nationals working in Ukraine has dropped significantly since the start of the full-scale war, which has become a significant challenge for the country's labour market. According to the State Employment Service, which is cited by the page, the number of foreigners who have obtained work permits in Ukraine has decreased several times.

Statistics on work permits

▪️ In 2021, 21,786 work permits were issued to foreigners.

▪️ In 2022, after the start of the war, this figure fell sharply to 6,279.

▪️ In 2023, the situation continued to deteriorate, and the number of such permits amounted to 4,530.

▪️ However, in 2024, a slight increase was recorded — 6,127 permits.

▪️ In the first quarter of 2025, the number of permits was 1,728.

This decline also affected the number of employers applying for permits for foreign employees. In 2021, 19,585 such applications were submitted, in 2022 — 3,288, and in 2023 — 3,071. In 2024, the number of applications was 2,773, and in the first quarter of 2025 — 953.

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Why has the number of foreign workers decreased?

The decline in the number of work permits in Ukraine is linked to the deterioration of the economic situation, migration processes and the adaptation of labour markets in wartime conditions. The decline in the number of foreign workers is also linked to greater instability in the country and restrictions affecting both business and international relations.

It is important to remember that a properly issued work permit and residence permit are key steps in legalising your status. In the context of employment, the issue of document processing becomes even more relevant.

If you need advice or assistance in obtaining a work permit or residence permit, the team of immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine is ready to offer professional support. We will help you go through all the stages of legalisation and ensure that all the necessary documents for working in Ukraine are correctly drawn up.

What should you know about visas and work permits in Ukraine?

In recent years, Ukraine has introduced a number of changes to the rules for employing foreigners, including simplifying procedures for highly qualified specialists and issuing temporary and long-term visas for those who wish to work in the country.

New approaches to the integration of foreign specialists are currently being actively developed in Ukraine, especially in such areas as information technology, engineering and the military industry.

For foreign citizens who plan to obtain a work permit or residence permit on the basis of employment, our service offers comprehensive assistance in resolving legal issues. Migrants can contact Visit Ukraine for advice on obtaining visas and work permits.

If you would like to learn more or start the process of obtaining documents to work in Ukraine, please contact us for a detailed consultation.

Reminder! According to research, the average salary in Ukraine has increased by 20% and now stands at 24,000 UAH or more than 570 dollars. Find out what salaries employers offer in the largest cities of Ukraine and which vacancies are the most attractive to users.

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

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