The ground decides everything
The law lists the grounds on which a foreigner can get a temporary permit. The ground determines which documents are needed, how long the permit will be issued for and what happens if circumstances change. For example, if you leave your job, an employment-based permit will have to be cancelled or the ground changed.
People often come thinking “I need a residence permit”, and it turns out it's simpler and faster to go through a different ground than they planned. So we start with a conversation about your plans.
What's included
- Choosing the ground to fit your plans in Ukraine.
- A list of documents and a check of the ones you have.
- Translations and apostille, if the documents are foreign.
- Filing with the regional office of the State Migration Service.
- Support until you receive the permit and register your address.
Grounds for a temporary permit
| Ground | What's needed |
|---|---|
| Employment | A work permit and an employment contract |
| Business | An investment in a company, or working as director under a permit |
| Study | Enrolment at a Ukrainian educational institution |
| Family reunification | Marriage or family ties with a Ukrainian citizen or a foreigner with a permit |
| Volunteering | Taking part in a programme of an organisation on the special list |
Not sure which ground is yours? Try the immigration navigator: three questions, and it points you in the right direction.
A residence permit through business
A foreign founder can get a residence permit if they've invested the amount set by law in a Ukrainian company. Another option is to become director of your own company under a work permit. Which works out better depends on the budget. More on the business for foreigners page.
How it works
Your part: your passport and the documents for your ground. The rest of the arrows are mine.
Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons” (Art. 4, grounds for temporary residence); Procedure for processing, producing and issuing temporary residence permits, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
Frequently asked questions about temporary residence permits
How much does a turnkey temporary residence permit cost?
My work is from €150. State fees, translations and insurance are separate. If you need a tax number, an LLC or a work permit, we price it as a package.
How long does it take?
About two months, including preparing the documents. The timing depends on the ground.
For how long is the permit issued?
For a term that depends on the ground. After that it can be extended if the ground still applies.
Do I need a D visa?
It depends on your citizenship and the ground. More on the type D visa page.
Can I work with a temporary permit?
It depends on the ground. A study-based permit, for example, doesn't give the right to work without a separate permit.
The client wanted to move to Ukraine and work legally. We went the whole way: tax number, LLC registration, work permit, visa, residence permit. The permit was obtained.
How a client from Peru got a residence permit →Lived in Ukraine for a long time and want to stay? See the permanent residence permit. For families there's family reunification.