Work permit for foreigners in Ukraine

Obtaining a work permit for foreigners in Ukraine is an important step for foreign nationals who want to work in Ukraine legally. The issue matters both to employers and employees, as it concerns compliance with labour and immigration law. Foreign specialists often bring unique skills that contribute to the development of various sectors of the Ukrainian economy.

Legal framework

• Law of Ukraine “On Employment of the Population” — defines the work permit procedure and sets quotas for employing foreigners.
• Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons” — governs the rights and obligations of foreign nationals.
• Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine — defines the procedure for issuing permits for the employment of foreigners and the list of documents.

These acts are updated regularly, and changes can significantly affect employment conditions. The experienced lawyers of UHY Prostir will keep you up to date.

Who needs a permit

Not all foreigners must obtain a work permit in Ukraine: certain categories, including citizens of countries with special agreements with Ukraine, may work without one. Most, however, must hold the relevant documents. Employees of foreign representative offices obtain the right to work in Ukraine under a separate procedure; simplified procedures apply to highly qualified specialists, students and intra-corporate transferees.

The permit procedure

A work permit is usually issued for six months to three years, depending on the nature of the work and the contract. The main steps:

• The initiating employer files an application and document package with the authorized territorial office of the State Employment Service.
• The employment contract is executed.
• The permit fee is paid.
• The decision usually takes 15 to 30 days (for stateless persons via “Diia” — up to seven days).

The cost depends on the contract duration and the worker’s category: short-term contracts may cost less than long-term ones; processing for stateless persons via “Diia” is free of charge.

Required documents

• A copy of the passport with a Ukrainian translation.
• Documents confirming qualifications (diplomas, certificates), if required.
• The employer’s permit application.
• A criminal record certificate (if needed).
• A consular certificate of visa status (if necessary).
• A 3.5×4.5 cm photo.
• A draft employment contract or gig contract.

All documents must comply with legal requirements: errors or missing documents can lead to refusal.

Common mistakes when applying

• Incorrectly completed application.
• Documents that do not meet legal requirements.
• Missed filing deadlines.

Rights and obligations of foreign employees

Foreign employees in Ukraine have the same rights as Ukrainian citizens: social insurance, vacations, protection from discrimination at work and more. Their main obligations are to comply with the employment contract and Ukrainian law.

Extension and cancellation of the permit

The permit can be extended if the employment relationship continues — by filing the relevant documents and extending the employment contract or concluding a new one. The extension procedure is simpler than the initial application but still requires full compliance. The permit may be cancelled when the employment relationship with the foreigner ends.

We recommend engaging UHY Prostir specialists to prepare the documents, avoid mistakes and stay informed about legislative changes — this speeds up obtaining a work permit for a foreigner in Ukraine.