Entry of Russian Men Aged 16-60 Temporarily Restricted

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At a Glance

Following the introduction of martial law in Ukraine scheduled to run from November 28 to December 26, 2018, Russian men aged 16-60 (both inclusive) will likely not be allowed to access Ukraine during this period. The State Border Authority has confirmed that male Russian nationals with valid Ukrainian temporary or permanent residence permits should not be affected by the restrictions. Nevertheless, Fragomen cautions that Russian permit holders may still not be admitted to Ukraine. Affected Russian nationals are advised to contact their immigration professional to discuss their eligibility to apply for a permit and to contact the relevant Russian consular post for guidance and advice prior to any travel into Ukraine. Employers are advised to postpone business trips and plan for delays in work start dates of affected applicants. Fragomen will monitor developments and will keep clients informed.

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The situation

Following the introduction of martial law in Ukraine, Russian men aged 16-60 (both inclusive) will likely not be allowed to access Ukraine.

A closer look

• Access restricted through December. The restriction is expected to apply during the period of martial law, currently scheduled to run from November 28 to December 26, 2018.
• Current permit holders. The State Border Authority has confirmed that male Russian nationals with valid Ukrainian temporary or permanent residence permits should not be affected by the restrictions. Nevertheless, since this position has not yet been confirmed in writing, Fragomen cautions that Russian permit holders may not be admitted to Ukraine.
• Applicants with pending applications. Fragomen advises male Russian residence permit applicants who are currently staying in Ukraine to remain in Ukraine until their residence permit has been approved and the corresponding residence card has been collected, as the risk of re-entry bars is even higher for applicants than for permit holders.

 

Impact

Affected Russian nationals are advised to contact their immigration professional to discuss their eligibility to apply for a permit and to contact the relevant Russian consular post for guidance and advice prior to any travel into Ukraine. Employers are advised to postpone business trips and plan for delays in work start dates of affected applicants.

Background

Fragomen expects border officials to already apply the new restrictions based on internal unpublished policy instructions.

Tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been ongoing since 2014. Where Russian nationals previously enjoyed a beneficial immigration regime in Ukraine, a number of restrictions initially aligned their position with other nationals seeking entry to Ukraine (including the need for an international passport). The most recent restrictions include stricter entry rules and a biometric entry process for nationals deemed to be high-risk.

Looking ahead

Fragomen expects further restrictions to be implemented in the coming months and will report on relevant developments.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].