Obtaining a temporary residence permit for foreign volunteers in Ukraine in 2026: new rules without a D visa

Ukraine has significantly simplified the procedure for legalizing the stay of foreigners engaged in volunteer and humanitarian activities. In 2026, important changes came into effect that allow individuals to obtain a temporary residence permit without applying for a long-term D-type visa.

This innovation significantly simplifies life for foreign volunteers and accelerates their integration into humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

What changed in 2026

In March 2026, a law was passed amending legislation on the legal status of foreigners.

The main change: it is no longer necessary to apply for a D-type visa to obtain a temporary residence permit.

Previously, the procedure was as follows:

1. The foreigner had to leave Ukraine
2. Apply for a D visa at the consulate
3. Return to Ukraine
4. Submit documents for the permit

Now this step has been completely eliminated.

Who is eligible for the simplified procedure

The new rules apply to:

• foreign volunteers
• humanitarian workers
• stateless persons
• participants in international or regional volunteer programs
• employees of foreign humanitarian organizations

Important: the simplified procedure does not apply to citizens of the russian federation.

Why the abolition of the D visa is important

The abolition of the visa requirement has a number of critical advantages:

1. No need to leave Ukraine. Previously, volunteers were forced to leave the country just to apply for a visa, which interrupted their activities.

2. Savings in time and money. Obtaining a D visa took weeks or even months and required additional expenses.

3. Continuity of volunteer work. Now foreigners can remain in Ukraine and immediately apply for a residence permit.

4. Attracting more international specialists. Ukraine is becoming more open to qualified humanitarian workers.

Validity period of the new rules

The simplified procedure applies:

• for the entire duration of martial law
• for 1 year after its conclusion

This is a temporary but strategically important mechanism for supporting the humanitarian sector.

How to obtain a temporary residence permit for a volunteer

Despite the simplifications, the application process remains formalized.

Key steps:

1.Confirmation of volunteer activity: an invitation from a registered organization

• an invitation from a registered organization
• confirmation of participation in the program

2.Preparing the document package:

• passport
• translation of documents
• health insurance policy
• other supporting documents

3.Submitting documents to the State Migration Service of Ukraine

4.Obtaining a temporary residence permit

Important: The presence of a host organization (volunteer or humanitarian organization) is mandatory.

Can I submit my application without leaving Ukraine?

Yes. This is one of the key changes. Foreign volunteers who are already legally residing in Ukraine can:

• stay in the country
• apply for a residence permit immediately

This eliminates the main problem with the previous system—being forced to leave the country.

Common mistakes during the application process

Even with these simplifications, applicants often face rejections due to:

• an incomplete set of documents
• the absence of a proper volunteer organization
• violations of the permitted duration of stay
• errors in translations

Therefore, legal assistance remains essential.

Benefits of obtaining a volunteer residence permit

Obtaining a temporary residence permit provides:

• legal long-term stay in Ukraine
• the ability to work officially for humanitarian organizations
• access to banking and administrative services
• simplified future immigration.

Conclusion

The abolition of the mandatory D-type visa for foreign volunteers is an important step toward deregulation and supporting international aid to Ukraine.

New rules:

• reduce bureaucracy
• speed up the document processing
• allow volunteers to help more effectively

If you plan to obtain a temporary residence permit as a volunteer, now is the best time to take advantage of the simplified procedure and our assistance in obtaining a temporary residence permit.

Additional services in the field of immigration law

In addition to assisting with the application for a temporary residence permit for volunteering, Enwolt’s attorneys help obtain legal status in Ukraine:

• A permanent residence permit in Ukraine—an official document granting the right to permanent residence in Ukraine.
• Work permit — a document granting the right to legal employment in Ukraine.
• Extension of stay in Ukraine — if you have insufficient days of legal stay.

Don’t delay — contact Enwolt for a consultation today.