Moving to Ukraine through relatives: what kind of residence permit can I get?

One of the most frequent reasons and grounds for moving to Ukraine is the presence here of relatives of varying degrees of kinship. Many foreigners, who may have a variety of interests in the territory of Ukraine, but at the same time live or are legally relatives - also prefer to legalize their stay through the so-called "family reunification".

This is a good option, you do not need to open your own company or consider an option, for example, with volunteering. The presence of relatives legally residing in Ukraine can indeed be a basis for your legalization as well. But it's important to remember that the chances and type of residence permit in Ukraine will depend on the degree of kinship and other factors. Our lawyers will tell you more about this today.

Related article: Terms and conditions of obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine for citizens of America and Europe

What family ties will allow me to get a temporary residence permit in Ukraine?

You can get a residence permit in Ukraine if your spouse has a temporary residence permit or Ukrainian citizenship. If we are talking about the citizenship of the spouse, you can get a residence permit if the marriage is less than 2 years. If more - you can apply for permanent residence permit.

In this situation, only the second spouse and children can obtain a residence permit for reunification. Parents, grandparents, etc. - already insufficient degree of kinship. 

It is extremely important to consider the following nuances:

• In most cases, you will need a D visa to enter Ukraine.

• If the marriage was not concluded in Ukraine, you may need legalization or apostille of the marriage certificate. The same applies to your birth certificate. 

• You will need enough time to collect, translate the documents, arrange insurance and submit the documents. The average preparation time is 1 month.

The cost of obtaining a temporary residence permit in Ukraine here.

Related article: Getting a residence permit in Ukraine through the registration of a company

What family ties will allow me to get a permanent residence permit in Ukraine?

In order to obtain a permanent residence permit in Ukraine, your spouse must also be either a citizen of Ukraine or have a permanent residence permit.

A much larger category of relatives of such immigrant can receive a residence permit in Ukraine: parents, spouse and minor children of the immigrant, as well as full-brother, sister, grandson, granddaughter, grandfather, grandmother of the immigrant.

The procedure for obtaining a permanent residence permit differs from the temporary residence permit - a larger set of documents is required, and you have to wait a year for the permit.

In some cases, a criminal record certificate, medical certificates on the absence of diseases provided for in the Law, as well as the consent of a relative to your immigration to Ukraine, and a guarantee of financial security are added.

At the same time, staying in Ukraine, you can safely expect to be issued a permanent residence permit.

The cost of obtaining a permanent residence permit in Ukraine here.