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How to get a work permit in Ukraine and does it help to get a residence permit?

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Ukraine is becoming an increasingly popular destination for foreigners looking to work or live in the country. However, obtaining a work permit in Ukraine can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the country's laws and regulations. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a work permit in Ukraine.

Step 1: Determine the type of work permit you need

Before you start the application process, it's essential to determine the type of work permit you need. There are several types of work permits available in Ukraine, including:

  • Temporary Residence Permit with permission to work
  • Permanent Residence Permit with permission to work
  • Short-term work permit
  • Long-term work permit

Each type of work permit has different requirements and is suitable for different types of jobs. Therefore, it's important to determine the type of work permit you need before starting the application process.

Step 2: Check your eligibility

To be eligible for a work permit in Ukraine, you must meet certain requirements, such as:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a valid passport
  • Have a job offer from a Ukrainian employer
  • Have a clean criminal record
  • Have a valid medical insurance policy
  • Have a degree or qualification that is recognized in Ukraine (for certain professions)

It's essential to check your eligibility before applying for a work permit to avoid any unnecessary delays or rejections.

Step 3: Apply for a work permit

To apply for a work permit in Ukraine, you must submit the following documents:

  • A completed application form
  • A copy of your passport
  • A job offer from a Ukrainian employer
  • A valid medical insurance policy
  • A clean criminal record certificate
  • A degree or qualification that is recognized in Ukraine (for certain professions)
  • A document confirming the payment of the state fee

The application process can take up to 15 working days, and the cost of the work permit varies depending on the type of permit you are applying for.

Step 4: Register with the State Migration Service

Once you have received your work permit, you must register with the State Migration Service within 30 days of your arrival in Ukraine. Failure to register can result in fines or deportation.

To register, you must submit the following documents:

  • A copy of your passport
  • A copy of your work permit
  • A completed application form
  • A document confirming your place of residence in Ukraine

Step 5: Renew your work permit

Work permits in Ukraine are valid for up to one year and must be renewed annually. To renew your work permit, you must submit a new application to the State Migration Service at least 15 days before your current permit expires.

Related article: Work permit in Ukraine for foreigners: who is responsible for the staff relocation?

What documents are needed for the work permit in Ukraine?


Here is a more detailed list of the required documents for obtaining a work permit in Ukraine:

  1. A completed work permit application form
  2. A valid passport with an entry stamp confirming your legal entry into Ukraine
  3. A job offer or employment contract from a Ukrainian employer, including a description of the duties, salary, and duration of employment
  4. A clean criminal record certificate issued by the relevant authority in your home country or in Ukraine
  5. A document confirming your qualifications, which should be translated and notarized if issued in a language other than Ukrainian or Russian. This requirement applies to certain professions such as doctors, engineers, and teachers.
  6. A valid medical insurance policy that covers your stay in Ukraine
  7. A document confirming the payment of the state fee.

It's important to note that some additional documents may be required depending on the type of work permit you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a long-term work permit, you may need to provide additional documentation proving your ties to Ukraine, such as a lease agreement or a property ownership certificate.

Also, all documents issued in a foreign language must be translated into Ukrainian and notarized by a Ukrainian notary or consular service of the country that issued the original document. It's essential to ensure that all documents are up to date and comply with the requirements of the State Migration Service of Ukraine.

Related article: From now on foreigners do not have to leave Ukraine for D type visa

For Citizens of which countries entry to Ukraine and obtaining a work permit will be easier and why?


Citizens of certain countries may find it easier to enter Ukraine and obtain a work permit due to the different agreements and treaties that Ukraine has with other countries. These agreements may provide certain exemptions or simplified procedures for citizens of those countries.

One example is the visa-free regime that Ukraine has with the European Union, which allows citizens of EU countries to enter Ukraine without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This makes it easier for EU citizens to travel to Ukraine and apply for a work permit while they are in the country. Additionally, citizens of some EU countries are eligible for a simplified procedure for obtaining a work permit, which can reduce the processing time and requirements.

Ukraine also has bilateral agreements with several countries, including Canada, the United States, and Israel, which provide certain exemptions or simplified procedures for citizens of those countries. For example, citizens of Canada and the United States can apply for a work permit in Ukraine without first obtaining a job offer from a Ukrainian employer. Similarly, citizens of Israel can apply for a work permit in Ukraine without having to obtain a long-term visa first.

Overall, citizens of countries that have agreements or treaties with Ukraine may find it easier to enter the country and obtain a work permit due to the exemptions or simplified procedures available to them. However, it's important to note that the specific requirements and procedures can vary depending on the type of work permit being applied for, and it's essential to check the current regulations and requirements before applying.

For Citizens of which countries entry to Ukraine and obtaining a work permit will be harder and why?


Citizens of some countries may find it harder to enter Ukraine and obtain a work permit due to various factors such as political and economic relations between countries, immigration policies, and security concerns.

Citizens of countries that are in conflict with Ukraine or have strained political relations may face more difficulties in obtaining a work permit. For example, citizens of Russia may face stricter requirements and longer processing times due to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and russia.

Citizens of countries with higher rates of illegal immigration or security concerns may also face more stringent requirements and additional background checks when applying for a work permit in Ukraine. For example, citizens of certain African countries, Middle Eastern countries, or countries with a high incidence of human trafficking may face additional scrutiny and be required to provide more detailed documentation to prove their eligibility for a work permit.

Additionally, citizens of countries that are not part of any bilateral or multilateral agreements with Ukraine may face more complicated and time-consuming procedures to obtain a work permit. These citizens may be required to obtain a long-term visa first, which can add extra steps and requirements to the application process.

Overall, the specific difficulties that citizens of certain countries may face when applying for a work permit in Ukraine can vary depending on various factors. It's essential to check the current regulations and requirements and consult with the relevant authorities or legal professionals to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Related article: What are the grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine?

Here is a short instruction on entry to Ukraine and obtaining the work permit with terms

  1. Obtain a valid passport: You will need a valid passport with at least six months validity and a blank page to obtain a visa or enter Ukraine.
  2. Obtain a visa (if required): Citizens of some countries may require a visa to enter Ukraine. You should check with the Ukrainian embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest information on visa requirements.
  3. Enter Ukraine: Once you have a valid passport and visa (if required), you can enter Ukraine through an international airport, land border crossing, or sea port. You will need to present your passport, visa (if required), and any other necessary documentation to the Ukrainian border control officer.
  4. Obtain a job offer: To obtain a work permit, you must have a job offer or employment contract from a Ukrainian employer. The employer will need to provide a description of the duties, salary, and duration of employment.
  5. Gather necessary documents: You will need to gather all necessary documents such as a clean criminal record certificate, a document confirming your qualifications, and a valid medical insurance policy.
  6. Apply for a work permit: You can apply for a work permit at the State Migration Service of Ukraine. The processing time for a work permit can take up to 15 business days for a standard application and up to five business days for an urgent application.
  7. Receive your work permit: If your application is approved, you will receive a work permit that is valid for up to one year. You can then start working for the Ukrainian employer.

The cost of services for obtaining a work permit in Ukraine is here.

If your goal is a residence permit in Ukraine, we can also help with this.


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