Ukrainian Men Aged 18–22 May Travel Abroad: What You Need to Know About the New Rules

As of 28 August 2025, new regulations have come into force — Ukrainian men between the ages of 18 and 22 may now freely travel abroad even during martial law. The announcement was made by Ukraine's Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, who emphasised that the decision was taken in the interests of the next generation.

To take advantage of the right to travel, it is sufficient to hold a valid Ukrainian passport — international or biometric — along with proof of military registration in either paper or electronic form. The only exceptions are individuals holding positions in state or local government bodies, as well as other categories defined by law — restrictions remain in place for them.

According to government officials, the primary goal of the new rules is to support young people who seek to pursue education, participate in international programmes, develop professionally, and represent Ukraine on the world stage. The decision is also an attempt to strike a balance between defence requirements and creating opportunities for the future. Importantly, this is not merely a matter of granting "permission to leave" — it is about the lawful exercise of citizens' rights, state support, and the creation of space for personal growth.

Since 2022, a full travel ban had been in place for men aged 18 to 60, with exceptions for specific categories (such as fathers of many children or students at foreign universities). The new decision marks the first significant easing of restrictions in three years, and discussions are already underway about extending it to men up to the age of 24.

For many young Ukrainians, this opens up new opportunities — some will be able to continue their studies abroad, others to pursue international projects. The government emphasises that even in wartime, it is committed not only to defending the country, but also to securing the future of its next generation.