How to obtain a residence permit in Ukraine as a US citizen: features, opportunities, and pitfalls

US citizens can obtain a residence permit in Ukraine on various grounds. Find out how to obtain a residence permit in 2025, what documents are required, and how to avoid risks

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

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Despite the war, U.S. citizens continue to be actively interested in the possibility of legal stay in Ukraine - for volunteering, starting a business, marrying Ukrainian citizens, or for cultural reasons. In 2025, a foreigner from the United States can stay in Ukraine for no more than 90 days out of 180 without a visa. If you want to stay longer, you will need a temporary residence permit (TRP). This article explains in detail how to obtain it, what to look for, and what pitfalls to expect.

Options for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine for US citizens

There are several legal ways to obtain a residence permit in Ukraine. Here are the most popular ones:

1. Marriage to a Ukrainian citizen

This is one of the most common grounds, which is also the most scrutinized by the State Migration Service. The residence permit is issued for one year with the possibility of extension. It is worth being prepared for checks aimed at detecting fictitious marriages - they can be both documentary and personal interviews.

2. Work/contract with a Ukrainian employer

Another popular option, one for which, first of all, you need to obtain a work permit in Ukraine (issued by the employment center). After that, a residence permit is issued. The residence permit is issued for the duration of the contract, but usually for no more than 3 years.

3. Studying at a Ukrainian higher education institution

This path is often chosen by young people who want to study the Ukrainian language, culture or specialties related to international relations. A residence permit is issued for one academic year with the possibility of extension for the entire period of study.

4. Participation in charitable or religious activities

This is an option for volunteers who come to help the population, military or humanitarian organizations. To obtain a residence permit, you must have an invitation from an accredited organization and approval from the Ministry of Social Policy.

5. Starting a business or registering a sole proprietorship

US citizens can establish an LLC or register as an individual entrepreneur. Most often, foreigners choose the IT sector, foreign trade, and consulting. To do this, you need to have a legal address, accounting, an open account, and a work permit as a director - this is the basis for a residence permit.

How does the procedure for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine work?

Here are the steps that a US citizen will have to go through to legalize his or her residence in Ukraine:

1. Choosing the grounds - you have to choose a legal option (marriage, work, study, etc.) and prepare documents.

2. Obtaining a type D visa - it is issued at the Ukrainian consulate in the United States or a third country.

3. Arrival in Ukraine - upon entry, you submit documents to the territorial unit of the SMS (State Migration Service).

4. Additional documents - medical certificate, health insurance, translations of documents, proof of residence.

5. Obtaining a residence permit ID card - it usually takes 15 to 30 days.

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What should US citizens consider when applying for a residence permit in Ukraine?

There are several peculiarities of applying for a residence permit for US citizens that should be taken into account in advance:

● A visa-free stay is valid for 90 days, but staying beyond this period is grounds for a fine and deportation.

● The US is not included in the list of countries where a residence permit can be issued automatically through business (as for EU citizens), so it will take longer to process.

● At the Ukrainian consulates in the US, you can wait longer for a D visa than in Europe - sometimes up to 4 weeks.

● Americans often face banking issues (due to FATCA), which should be taken into account when registering a business.

Common mistakes and pitfalls

● Overstaying a residence permit - automatic revocation of status and a fine.

● Fictitious marriage or employment - grounds for revocation of residence permit and entry ban.

● Incorrectly issued health insurance is one of the most common reasons for refusal.

● Failure to register a place of residence in a timely manner - a residence permit will not be issued without a residence permit.

Legal advice for US citizens planning to obtain a residence permit in Ukraine

1. Prepare documents in advance, especially if you plan to obtain a visa to the United States.

2. Keep copies of all documents that you submit to the SMS.

3. If you are starting a business or a sole proprietorship, contact an accountant who has experience working with foreigners.

4. If you are a volunteer, make sure that the organization inviting you is officially accredited in Ukraine.

Obtaining a residence permit is not only about bureaucracy, but also about the safety of your stay in Ukraine. Visit Ukraine's team of lawyers specializes in supporting US citizens at all stages of legalization in Ukraine. Our experts will help you:

● choose the best grounds for a residence permit;

● prepare a package of documents and official translations

● submit documents to the relevant authorities

● arrange for health insurance and residence registration.

Book a personalized legal consultation right now and get full support until the ID card is issued. Our specialists will do everything to make your stay in Ukraine legal, safe and comfortable.

We remind you! If you plan to stay in Ukraine for a long time, it is very important to choose the right type D visa in advance to get a residence permit without any problems. Read what visa codes are suitable for different grounds, how to avoid mistakes when applying for a visa, and who to contact for professional help in our previous article.

Photo: Freepik

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