Worldwide/Ukraine: Many Countries Granting Immigration Concessions for Ukrainian Nationals; Exit Ban for Men Age 18-60

• Concessions. Some reported examples of government concessions are below:
  • Canada. The government is prioritizing immigration applications from people who currently live in Ukraine and urgently processing passports and travel documents for Canadian citizens and permanent residents in Ukraine, among other measures. Ukrainian nationals currently in Canada on a temporary basis can apply to extend their status as a visitor, student or worker.
  • Germany. Immigration offices may, on a case-by-case basis, be accepting long-term permit applications for Ukrainian nationals even if they do not have a valid long-term visa.  Visa-exempt Ukrainian nationals on short stays of up to 90 days (visa free) in Berlin have automatic extensions of their status until May 31, 2022. Ukrainian nationals in Germany outside of Berlin under short-term stays of up to 90 days (visa free) may, on a case-by-case basis, apply for an exceptional extension of their stay in Germany.
  • Hungary: Ukrainian nationals and third-country nationals residing lawfully in Ukraine can enter Hungary from Ukraine to obtain temporary protection. The decree does not specify the type of travel document required, but generally, a biometric passport is required to enter without a Schengen visa.
  • Ireland. Visa restrictions on Ukrainian nationals have been lifted for Ireland. This will apply as an emergency measure to all Ukrainians traveling to Ireland. All Ukrainian nationals, which includes those granted employment permits or applying to join family in Ireland, will not need to obtain a visa prior to travel to Ireland. Ukrainian nationals who arrive in Ireland will be permitted to stay for up to 90 days to obtain legal immigration status through work authorization or other residence rights.
  • Poland. The government has published information about Ukrainians seeking refuge in Poland. The Polish land border with Ukraine is reportedly still open.
  • Slovakia. Ukrainian nationals (even those without a valid passport in some cases) can enter without the requisite COVID-19 quarantine.  
  • United Kingdom. 
    • Ukrainian nationals under a points-based system route can extend their leave in the United Kingdom.
    • Ukrainian nationals under a visitor visa can switch into a points-based system immigration route without having to leave the United Kingdom.
    • Ukrainian nationals under a visitor visa can apply under the family route for further leave without meeting the immigration status requirement, provided they meet the requirements for leave based on exceptional circumstances. Detailed instructions and other concessions are listed here.   
• Exit ban. The Ukrainian President has signed an order that bans Ukrainian men aged 18-60 from leaving Ukraine during the period of martial law.
• Government closures. Government services in Ukraine, including the processing of immigration applications, are very limited or unavailable until further notice.

Companies with employees in Ukraine should ensure the safety of their employees, should be prepared for delays in immigration processes, should inform these employees of the available concessions and advise them to check consular websites for further information.

We hope that you and your loved ones are safe. The situation is fluid. Further concessions and government office impacts are expected. Affected travelers and individuals should contact their immigration professional for specific guidance. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.