The Resolution They Want to Repeal: What Men Aged 18-22 Are Currently Permitted to Do and How This May Change

The Cabinet of Ministers resolution permitting men between the ages of 18 and 22 to leave Ukraine during martial law has been in force since August 2025. As of May 2026, it remains valid. However, discussions are ongoing in parliament, and just a few votes could be enough to bring about changes. If you or a family member are planning a trip - it is important to be aware of both the current rules and the associated risks.

What Is Currently Permitted - The Official Position

Under the resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, men aged between 18 and 22 inclusive are entitled to cross the state border during martial law. The provision applies to those who have not yet reached the age of 23. No proof of study or special invitation is required to travel. The number of departures and returns is unlimited. No criminal liability for failure to return is provided for this age group.

What Documents Are Required at the Border

The Border Guard Service is entitled to check:

• a foreign passport;
• a military registration document - in paper form or electronically via the Rezerva+ application.

The absence of either of these documents entitles border officers to refuse exit.

Who Is Not Covered by the Permission

Even within the under-22 age group, exceptions exist. The following individuals will not be permitted to leave:

• persons holding positions listed in point 2.14 of the State Border Crossing Rules - specific categories of civil servants and law enforcement officers;
• individuals placed under reservation at critically important enterprises - without the relevant certificate and confirmation of the purpose of travel.

What Is Being Discussed in the Verkhovna Rada

Since August 2025, when the Cabinet of Ministers resolution came into force, several draft laws concerning the rules governing men's right to leave have been registered in parliament. Draft Law No. 13685 (August 2025) proposed enshrining in legislation the permission for men under the age of 25 to travel abroad. It never entered into force as a separate law - the government resolved the matter by means of a Cabinet of Ministers resolution.

Draft Law No. 14210 (November 2025) proposed the opposite: a temporary ban on travel abroad for individuals placed under reservation during mobilisation and martial law. The document was discussed in the relevant parliamentary committees but did not proceed to a vote.

In early 2026, parliament also discussed initiatives to restrict travel abroad for reserved individuals who use their status for holidays abroad without returning. No specific legislative decision was adopted. As of May 2026, the resolution currently in force for men aged 18-22 remains valid.

Advice from Gremi Personal

Check the current rules before every trip Legislation in this area can change rapidly. Before travelling, check the current Cabinet of Ministers resolution. It takes a minute and can save you from difficulties at the border.

Keep your documents in order Make sure your foreign passport is valid and not expiring in the near future. Your military registration document must be current - either in paper form or via the Rezerva+ application.

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