Immigration lawyer Ivan Goncharov was nominated as Lawyer of the Year in the category of International Law/European Convention on Human Rights by the Kharkiv Bar Council. On December 19, on the Day of Advocates of Ukraine, he received this honorary title.
Successful Cases in 2024
During 2024, Ivan Goncharov successfully handled numerous migration cases. He won cases concerning the deportation of foreigners from Ukraine, entry bans imposed on foreigners, refusals to issue residence permits and immigration permits, as well as disputes regarding the acquisition of Ukrainian citizenship. Most cases were resolved out-of-court, although some were reviewed in court.
Continuing Legal Education for Kharkiv Advocates and Work at the Center for Labour Law and Social Security of Ukrainian National Bar Association
In 2024, Ivan Goncharov conducted a series of mandatory continuing education events for lawyers of the Kharkiv Regional Bar on migration law issues in Ukraine. The events covered topics such as appealing both voluntary and forcible deportations, employment of foreigners and stateless persons, obtaining immigration permits, and the process of transitioning to permanent residence.
In addition, Ivan Goncharov became a member of the Center for Labour Law and Social Security at the Higher School of Advocacy of the Ukrainian National Bar Association. He participated as a lecturer in the marathon webinar series “Protection of Workers’ Labor Rights” during a continuing education event focused on protecting the labor rights of foreigners and stateless persons in Ukraine.
Planned Events for 2025
In 2025, even more continuing education events for lawyers are planned, covering a wide range of topics, including:
- The procedure for the entry of foreigners and stateless persons into Ukraine.
- The issuance of temporary residence permits for these categories of persons.
- Providing legal assistance in cases of migration law violations.
- Analysis of judicial practice in migration disputes.
- Recognition of stateless persons.
- Granting refugee status or the status of a person in need of additional protection.
- The acquisition and termination of Ukrainian citizenship.
- Ensuring the rights and freedoms of internally displaced persons.
- Consular services and legal assistance for Ukrainian citizens and ethnic Ukrainians abroad.
Leadership of the Migration Law Committee
Ivan Goncharov continues to head the Migration Law Committee of the Kharkiv Regional Bar, which unites lawyers specializing in migration law matters.
Planned Meetings with Government Authorities in 2025
The Migration Law Committee plans to hold a series of meetings with relevant government authorities to discuss proposals for legislative changes. The main topics for discussion include:
- Obtaining immigration permits, particularly for persons with temporary residence and for foreigners who participated in repelling armed aggression against Ukraine, as well as acquiring citizenship according to draft laws 11469 and 3897-IX.
- The introduction of administrative penalties for violations of the legal status of foreigners and stateless persons (including increased fines, new charges, and deportations).
- The consideration of administrative cases in accordance with Ukraine’s Law “On Administrative Procedure.”
- Providing legal assistance to vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons and those at risk of becoming stateless.
- Exchanging experiences in combating irregular migration, clarifying for clients the legal consequences of violations, encouraging voluntary payment of fines, and facilitating voluntary return.
When dealing with complex legal issues, it is recommended to seek the help of a specialized lawyer to ensure a full understanding of the legal intricacies. Consider making an appointment for a consultation.