Permission to travel abroad

Under martial law in Ukraine, restrictions on traveling abroad for certain categories of citizens, particularly men, have been significantly tightened. Many are concerned about how to travel abroad, the rules for crossing the border, who is eligible to travel abroad, and in what cases a lawyer or attorney can assist.

In this article, we will explore all the important aspects related to: Traveling abroad for men, the possibility of crossing the border, help to travel abroad, Challenges in document processing, ban on travel abroad by men, the role of professionals in this process.

General Rules for Traveling Abroad During Martial Law

Since February 24, 2022, martial law has been in effect in Ukraine, resulting in stricter travel restrictions for men aged 18 to 60. According to the law, men can travel abroad only in exceptional cases.

Key categories of individuals permitted to cross the border:

1. Men with disabilities (with supporting documents).
2. Fathers of three or more children under the age of 18.
3. Guardians and caregivers of persons with disabilities.
4. Students enrolled in foreign universities.
5. Drivers of humanitarian aid transports and volunteers.
6. Men with other legal grounds.

The departure is also allowed for men who have a temporary or permanent residence permit in another country if they can provide the relevant documents. In addition, citizens working abroad with official employment can cross the border if they have the necessary supporting papers. In certain cases, the border service may consider individual requests and grant permission to leave for humanitarian reasons.

What Is a Travel Permit?

A travel permit is an official document or legal basis allowing men to cross the border legally. To obtain it, appropriate evidence and documents must be submitted.

Why Is It Difficult to Obtain a Travel Permit Independently?

Obtaining a travel permit independently can pose several challenges:

• Lack of knowledge about current laws and procedures.
• Frequent changes in legislation.
• Bureaucratic hurdles (a large number of documents and proofs required).
• Unawareness of travel bans that may apply to an individual.
• The necessity of correctly preparing all paperwork.

Errors in documents or their absence may result in a denial of crossing the border. Errors in documents or their absence can result in denial of crossing the border. Additionally, the process may be delayed due to lengthy document checks by government agencies. Queues at institutions and the workload on border services also create additional difficulties for citizens. Legal or consultancy assistance is often needed to correctly interpret the requirements and prepare the documents. It is essential to consider that even with all the required papers, the final decision on crossing the border rests with the border service.

When Can a Lawyer or Attorney Help?

A lawyer or attorney specializing in international travel issues can help resolve complex situations and increase the chances of successful border crossing. They can assist with:

• Preparing and processing travel documents.
• Providing consultations on border crossing rules.
• Assisting in lifting travel bans.
• Guiding through the process of obtaining a travel permit.
• Representing clients in courts and state institutions.

Key legal services for men:

• Consultation on legal grounds for traveling.
• Analysis of obstacles or bans on international travel.
• Assistance for students studying at foreign universities in preparing necessary documents.
• Legal support during the border-crossing process.
• Resolving issues in case of denial to travel abroad.

A lawyer helps to avoid mistakes that might lead to a travel ban or delays at the border. A lawyer can help avoid mistakes that could lead to a ban on men traveling abroad or delays at the border. Assistance is especially crucial in situations requiring prompt resolution of complex issues, such as appealing a denial or gathering additional documents. An experienced lawyer can also prepare the client for potential questions at the border, minimizing the risk of delays. Furthermore, the specialist will help avoid unjustified refusals by explaining the client’s rights and the procedure for their protection.

Main Categories of Men Eligible to Travel Abroad

Students of Foreign Universities. Students enrolled in foreign universities have the right to travel abroad if they can provide evidence of their student status. Required documents include:

1. A certificate from the educational institution.
2. A student ID or similar documentation.
3. Proof of enrollment or active studies.

Men with Disabilities. Men with disabilities may cross the border upon presenting documents confirming their disability status.

Fathers of Three or More Children. Fathers of three or more children under the age of 18 can travel abroad if they provide the following documents: birth certificates of the children, family composition certificate.

Other Categories. Other eligible men include those who:

1. Are guardians of persons with disabilities.
2. Accompany humanitarian aid shipments.
3. Have other legal grounds for international travel.

The right to travel is also granted to men who have a temporary or permanent residence permit in another country, provided they have the necessary supporting documents. An important category includes international freight drivers who cross the border to deliver goods. Men traveling abroad for medical treatment can also leave the country if they have the required medical documents and permits.

Legal Grounds for Traveling. During martial law or family disputes, it is crucial to know the legal grounds for obtaining a travel permit.

Lifting Restrictions. A specialist can help challenge court-imposed travel restrictions or secure permits for individuals with military obligations.

Verifying Legitimacy. A lawyer will analyze your situation and suggest the best legal route to successfully obtain a travel permit.