Since the start of the full-scale war, a growing number of foreign nationals have come to Ukraine to offer volunteer support to both civilians and the Armed Forces. However, under standard migration rules, foreigners may only stay legally in Ukraine for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

To extend their stay lawfully, they must obtain a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP). One of the legal grounds for this is participation in volunteer activity through a recognized Ukrainian organization.

Which Organizations Can Host Foreign Volunteers?

Not every organization is authorized to host foreign volunteers. It must be a non-profit entity and registered in the National Register of Non-Profit Institutions and Organizations.

In addition, to be eligible to invite foreign volunteers and support their TRP application, the organization must appear on the official list published by the National Social Service of Ukraine (NSSU). To be included, the organization must submit a formal request and supporting documents to the NSSU.

Foreign nationals are strongly advised to verify that the inviting organization is listed on the NSSU website before agreeing to volunteer.

You may be interested to read about How to Get a Type D Visa for Ukraine.

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Is a Contract with the Volunteer Organization Required?

While a formal contract between the foreign volunteer and the organization is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. A contract helps define responsibilities, rights, duties, and terms of cooperation, including conditions for termination.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Temporary Residence Permit

1. Apply for a Visa (D-10 Type)

The volunteer organization must first issue a formal invitation letter, including the foreigner’s personal details and purpose of visit. This, along with the organization’s registration documents and a screenshot or printout from the NSSU website, should be sent to the volunteer.

The foreigner must then apply for a type D-10 visa at a Ukrainian Embassy, Consulate, or authorized visa center (e.g., VFS Global). Required documents include:

• Valid passport + copy

• Completed and signed visa application

• One 35×45 mm photo

• Medical insurance (coverage: €30,000)

• Proof of sufficient funds (invitation may suffice; bank statement may also be requested)

• Invitation and registration documents from the organization

• Visa fee receipt (some nationalities are exempt)

Note: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned departure from Ukraine and must have at least 2 blank pages.

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.

2. Entering Ukraine

Entry must occur on or after the visa start date. If entry occurs before the visa’s validity, the border crossing may be considered visa-free and disqualify the volunteer from applying for a TRP.

Non-visa nationals (e.g., citizens of Azerbaijan, Moldova, Georgia, etc.) may enter with their documents and apply for TRP without a visa but must apply at least 15 working days before the end of their legal stay.

At the border, the volunteer must carry:

• Passport

• Original or copy of the invitation letter

• Medical insurance policy

Ensure that the entry stamp is visible and dated correctly.

You may be interested to read about Obtaining a Visa to Ukraine – Basics.

3. Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit

Once in Ukraine, the foreigner must submit documents to the State Migration Service (SMS) or authorized passport service centers or CNAPs (if empowered).

Documents include:

• Passport + certified Ukrainian translation of the bio page

• Annual health insurance

• Invitation + registration certificate of the NGO

• Administrative fee receipt (paid at submission)

Applications must be submitted at least 15 working days before visa expiration (or before legal stay ends for visa-free nationals). Processing takes up to 15 business days.

The applicant may be subject to a residency check and/or interview during the review period.

If approved, the TRP is issued for 1 year and can be renewed indefinitely as long as volunteer activity continues.

4. Register Place of Residence

Within 30 days of receiving the TRP, the volunteer must register their Ukrainian address via CNAP or the Diia Portal.

The hosting organization usually assists with this. If not, the volunteer must arrange an address independently (e.g., through a landlord or dormitory).

Can a Volunteer Be Denied a TRP?

Yes. Common grounds for refusal include:

• False personal information (e.g., fake address)

• Inability to explain the nature of volunteer work during the interview

• Origin from “migration risk” countries in contradiction to national interest

• Unpaid fines or outstanding legal obligations

• Improperly prepared documents

If refusal is due to correctable issues (e.g., debt or document errors), resubmission is allowed. If the decision is legally questionable, it can be appealed to the SMS.

Can Foreign Volunteers Work or Open a Business in Ukraine?

Yes. Volunteers may:

• Work officially, if the employer obtains a work permit through the Employment Center (fees apply: ~UAH 8,000–27,000 depending on duration).

• Register as private entrepreneurs (FOP) and provide services under civil contracts.

FOPs can operate under the simplified tax system, most commonly Group 3.