The issue of travelling abroad during martial law is relevant for many Ukrainians, especially for men of military age. In 2025, the procedure for crossing the border will depend on the current legislation that defines the categories of persons entitled to travel. This requires relevant documents confirming the grounds for crossing the border.
The rules for crossing the border are subject to change, so it is important to keep up to date with the latest legislation. This will help you avoid misunderstandings with border guards and ensure legal departure. Below, we will look at the main categories of people who have the right to leave and the steps to take to do so.
Categories of persons entitled to leave the country
The legislation defines a list of persons who can legally cross the border even during martial law. These categories include:
- Persons with disabilities. They have the right to leave if they have supporting documents, such as an MSEC certificate or a disability certificate.
- Parents with many children. If a man has three or more children, he can exercise the right to leave by providing birth certificates of the children.
- Guardians of persons with disabilities. Subject to confirmation of guardianship and the availability of documents indicating the health status of the ward and the need to provide support.
- Students. Men who are studying abroad can leave to continue their studies if they provide a certificate from the educational institution.
- Men with a temporary disability. Persons who have received a decision of the Military Medical Commission on temporary unfitness for military service also have the right to cross the border.
It is important to remember that border guards carefully check all documents, so their correct execution is crucial for a successful departure.
Steps to cross the border legally
The procedure for travelling abroad for men liable for military service includes several important steps. Following these steps will help you avoid problems with the border services:
- Consultation with a lawyer. A lawyer will help you determine your grounds for travelling abroad and prepare all the necessary documents.
- Preparation of supporting documents. Depending on the category, these may include: MSEC certificates, decisions of the medical examination board, certificates from educational institutions, etc.
- Obtaining a permit. If necessary, contact the TCR to obtain a permit to cross the border.
- Check the documents. Make sure that all certificates and permits are dated, signed and stamped.
- Submission of documents to the border guards. When crossing the border, you need to present the entire package of documents and be ready to answer questions from the border service.
Following these steps with the professional support of a lawyer significantly increases the chances of a successful departure.
What documents may be required?
Gathering documents is a key stage of preparation for travel abroad. They must be properly executed and up-to-date:
- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine.
- Foreign passport.
- Certificate from the MSEC (for persons with disabilities).
- Birth certificates of children (for parents with many children).
- Certificate from the foreign university (for students).
- Decision of the Military Medical Commissions or Territorial Centres of Recruitment (for those temporarily unfit).
Preparing all the necessary documents in advance will ensure a calm and legal departure.
Important questions about travelling abroad:
Question
Is it possible to go abroad if the MMC decision is still pending?
Answer
No, to cross the border, you need to have a final decision of the Military Medical Commissions or another document confirming your right to leave.
Question
Is it necessary to apply to the TCR for a permit?
Answer
It depends on your category. In some cases, the Territorial Centres of Recruitment's permission is mandatory, for example, for men liable for military service.
Legal assistance from ‘Consultant’:
Protection of your rights. A lawyer ensures that all legal grounds for leaving the country are taken into account.
Saving time. A lawyer will help you quickly collect documents and avoid unnecessary bureaucratic procedures.
Appeal against the refusal. In case of problems, the lawyer will represent your interests in court or before the relevant authorities.
Experienced lawyers of the Consultant legal service will help you collect the necessary documents and legally travel abroad. Contact us for professional assistance and legal support!
In 2025, only those who comply with the requirements of the law and have the proper documents will have the right to travel abroad. It is important to take into account all legal nuances and properly prepare for crossing the border.
