On March 30, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law that simplifies the visa process for foreign volunteers, allowing them to obtain temporary residence permits without securing long-term visas. This measure will remain in effect during the state of war and for one year following its conclusion, although it does not apply to citizens of Russia.
According to the legislative details available on the Ukrainian Parliament’s website, the amendments to the law on the legal status of foreigners and stateless persons enable specific categories of foreign nationals to bypass the lengthy visa application process. Previously, foreigners were required to obtain a type D visa from a consulate outside Ukraine, a process that often necessitated leaving the country and could be complicated and time-consuming.
The new provisions specifically target two groups of foreigners: those working with branches and representative offices of foreign humanitarian organizations and participants in international or regional volunteer programs. This change is particularly significant given the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, which has intensified since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion.
The law also includes a transitional provision, allowing foreigners from the specified categories who arrived in Ukraine after February 24, 2022, to apply for residence permits within 60 days of the law’s enactment. These individuals will be considered to be in Ukraine legally.
The explanatory note accompanying the bill highlighted that the demand for humanitarian assistance in Ukraine has surged since the beginning of the conflict. The United Nations estimates that in 2023, approximately 17.6 million people will require humanitarian aid and protection.
A survey conducted by the Center for Democracy and Rule of Law in collaboration with the National Social Service of Ukraine revealed that the bureaucratic process of obtaining necessary documentation has been a significant barrier for foreign volunteers, with 72.4% of respondents identifying it as their primary challenge.
Ukraine has enacted a law to simplify the visa process for foreign volunteers, allowing them to obtain temporary residence permits without prior long-term visas. This change aims to address the increased demand for humanitarian assistance amid ongoing conflict, facilitating the work of humanitarian organizations in the country.