Temporary Residence for Foreign Journalists in Ukraine 2025

Ukraine is currently at the heart of global affairs, and the demand for timely, reliable, first-hand reporting is higher than ever. Journalists, correspondents, reporters, and documentary filmmakers from around the world are coming here to cover major events and share them with an international audience.

To work effectively in the country, accreditation or a press card alone is not enough; it's essential to have official legal status that allows for a lawful stay in Ukraine for at least one year and enables journalists to carry out their professional duties without violating local laws.

A temporary residence permit (TRP) allows a journalist to:

• reside legally in Ukraine;

• open bank accounts and rent housing;

• officially register their place of residence;

• access medical services;

• carry out professional duties within the bounds of the law.

However, obtaining a TRP requires preparing a full set of documents, and this is one of the most challenging stages.

How TRPs Were Previously Issued on the Basis of Media Work

Until January 2025, foreign journalists were able to obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP) on the basis of their professional activity, in accordance with Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 322 dated April 25, 2018.

The procedure required the submission of the following documents:

• the journalist’s passport, along with a notarized Ukrainian translation;

• a valid health insurance policy covering the entire duration of the permit;

• proof of payment of the administrative fee;

• a tax identification number and a rental agreement for housing, if available.

And two mandatory documents specifically for journalists:

• an official letter from a foreign media outlet;

• a referral from the Ministry for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories.
  

Why Obtaining a TRP on This Basis Is Now Difficult

In December 2024, Cabinet Resolution No. 1366 reorganized the Ministry for Reintegration, and the newly established Ministry of National Unity of Ukraine did not receive the full authority required to issue referrals for foreign journalists.

As a result, since the beginning of 2025, it has become impossible to obtain or renew a temporary residence permit on the basis of employment in a media outlet. This has created serious challenges for journalists already in Ukraine, as well as for those planning to arrive.

You might also like: How a Foreigner Can Legally Move to Ukraine

Alternative Pathways to Legal Residency

In a situation where the standard procedure is unavailable, there are several legal options for obtaining temporary residency:

Employment

The most common and reliable route is obtaining a temporary residence permit through official employment in Ukraine.

To do so, one must:

• find a Ukrainian employer or register a company in Ukraine;

• obtain a work permit for a foreign national;

• provide a written commitment from the employer regarding the employment agreement.

This option is suitable for journalists collaborating with Ukrainian media outlets or companies engaged in joint projects.

Volunteer Work

Another option is participation in volunteer organizations that require professional media content, such as articles, videos, and photos, for public outreach, fundraising, and coverage of important events.

It is important that a volunteer organization:

• is officially registered and listed on the website of the National Social Service;

• submits official confirmation of the foreign national’s participation in its activities.

The required document package includes:

• a referral letter from the organization;

• an extract from the state registry.

Other Possible Grounds

Depending on their professional activity, a journalist may obtain a temporary residence permit:

• through involvement with branches of foreign legal entities;

• by engaging in cultural, scientific, or educational work.

Why Legal Support Matters

In complex circumstances where standard procedures no longer apply, it’s crucial to have a reliable legal partner in Ukraine. The legal team at LegalService specializes in migration law and assists foreign nationals throughout the process of legalizing their stay in Ukraine.

We offer:

• analysis of your situation and selection of the most appropriate legal basis for obtaining a temporary residence permit;

• full support with preparing and submitting documents for employment- or volunteer-based residency;

• preparation of all necessary paperwork for the State Migration Service and other authorities;

• consultations on insurance, tax identification numbers, and housing rental;

• coordination with employers and organizations to ensure legally sound cooperation.

The goal is to ensure that foreign journalists have a legal and secure status that allows them to carry out their professional duties freely.

Contact our team, and we will not only take care of the documentation, but also become your reliable partner within the legal framework of Ukraine.