Due to Russian aggression, Ukraine has faced a demographic challenge. Part of the population went to the front, and some, having lost their homes, left the country. This has significantly impacted the labor market, creating a demand for qualified specialists. Consequently, a unique opportunity has emerged for foreign specialists to obtain permanent residence permit in Ukraine.
To address the shortage of qualified professionals, the Ukrainian Parliament made amendments to immigration legislation. In October 2023, changes came into effect, removing quotas for foreign specialists. This means there are no longer restrictions on the number of foreigners who can obtain permanent residence permits in Ukraine. Additionally, the documentation process for the specialist’s family members has been simplified. Spouses and children under 18 can apply for permanent residency along with the main applicant.
Why is the opportunity to obtain a permanent residence permit in Ukraine unique?
Some legal experts confuse the permanent residence permit of a specialist in Ukraine with digital nomad visas in different countries. However, the difference is substantial, and Ukrainian permanent residency stands out as genuinely unique.
Digital nomads can only obtain a temporary residence permit for a limited period. For example, they may obtain a temporary residence permit for one year with the option to extend it for an additional 1 or 2 years. Such permits do not lead to immigration, meaning permanent residency cannot be obtained later. Additionally, a common requirement is a prohibition on working within the country. Digital nomads must generate income outside the country that issued the temporary residence permit. Similar digital nomad visas can be obtained in Malta, Cyprus, Hungary, and many other countries.
In Ukraine, the situation is radically different. Instead of a temporary residence permit, one can immediately apply for a permanent residence permit in Ukraine for themselves and their family members. A permanent residence permit allows for official employment without the need for a work permit. It also permits business registration and access to various benefits. For instance, one can obtain grants or loans for business development, and children can enroll in Ukrainian universities on a budget.
Another advantageous difference is the absence of a requirement to reside in the country, as is mandated in all European countries. In other words, obtaining a temporary or permanent residency permit in Ukraine does not obligate individuals to live in the country for any specific period. While Ukraine encourages individuals to stay, if there is a need to live in another country for an extended period, there is no fear of document annulment. From this perspective, Ukraine can serve as a backup for highly qualified specialists.
Who can apply for a permanent residence permit in Ukraine as a foreign specialist?
The Ministry of Economy of Ukraine annually establishes a list of specialties and qualifications required for professionals and workers whose needs can be met through immigration. On January 15, 2024, by Order No. 1237, the Ministry of Economy approved the list for 2024. The list includes 71 specialties, including IT specialists, doctors and nurses, pharmacists, engineers, mining professionals, locksmiths, machinists, drone operators, and more. The full list of specialties will be published separately.
To qualify for a permanent residence permit, one must confirm work experience in the relevant field. Usually, 1 to 3 years of experience in the last 3-7 years is sufficient. IT specialists additionally need to meet a minimum income threshold for the last 12 months, typically USD 24,000. In some cases, having the relevant education is mandatory, but this does not apply to all specialties on the list.
How to start the documentation process
If you fall into one of the mentioned categories, meet the minimum requirements, and wish to take advantage of the opportunity to obtain a permanent residence permit In Ukraine for yourself and possibly your family, it is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer first.
The next step is to prepare the necessary documents and certificates. The package includes documents confirming work experience, medical certificates, certificates of no criminal record, family status documents, address documents, translations, and more. In each specific case, additional documents may be required, so the assistance of a qualified lawyer is essential.
Once the documents are gathered, the next step is to contact the Ministry of Economy to confirm compliance with the declared specialty. IT specialists also need to contact the Ministry of Digital Transformation to confirm their level in the field of information technology.
The final step in the process is to apply to the Migration Service of Ukraine, where the documents will be considered for up to 6 months. During this time, you can reside in Ukraine by extending your stay. Extending the stay period is a separate action that the applicant must initiate.
In conclusion
Due to the challenging demographic situation, Ukraine has taken unconventional measures and significantly eased the requirements for obtaining permanent residency for specialists needed by the Ukrainian economy. This approach is expected to have a positive impact on the labor market and the economy as a whole.
For foreigners wishing to obtain a permanent residence permit in Ukraine, a wonderful opportunity has opened up to settle quickly and relatively easily in a developing country that will soon become a full member of the European Union.
Contact us for consultation and start the process of obtaining permanent residency in Ukraine today!
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