From May 7, 2026, temporary residence permits in Ukraine will no longer be considered extended.
On May 7, 2026, changes will come into effect in Ukraine that directly affect foreign citizens and stateless persons holding temporary residence permits. This effectively abolishes the automatic renewal of temporary residence permits that expired after February 24, 2022. Until now, such documents confirmed legal grounds for stay in Ukraine and the right to enter for the duration of martial law and for an additional 30 calendar days after its end. This rule allowed many foreigners to avoid the need to urgently renew their documents during wartime.
However, starting May 7, 2026, the situation will change.
Resolution No. 141 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated February 5, 2026, abolishes the mechanism for automatically recognizing expired temporary residence permits. This means that all holders of temporary residence permits in Ukraine that expired after the start of the full-scale invasion are required to apply to authorized bodies for a replacement document within 90 days of the resolution’s entry into force.
In fact, a specific deadline has been established: from May 7 to August 5, 2026.
If a temporary residence permit holder fails to apply for a replacement within the specified period, their stay in Ukraine will be considered illegal. This may result in administrative liability, complications with subsequent document processing, and, in some cases, the risk of migration enforcement measures.
It’s important to emphasize that these changes apply exclusively to holders of temporary residence permits. For foreign citizens with permanent residence permits, the extension rule for the duration of martial law and for 30 days after its termination remains in effect.
The procedure for exchanging a temporary residence permit is carried out in accordance with Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 322 of April 25, 2018. It requires submitting an application, providing the necessary documents, and meeting established migration requirements. In some cases, proof of the grounds for stay, a valid passport, and additional certificates may be required.
2026 marks a turning point for many foreign citizens who had been putting off exchanging their temporary residence permits due to the current simplified regime. Now, delays could have serious legal consequences. This is especially true for those planning to leave and re-enter Ukraine, or extend their work or other residence permits.
If you have questions about exchanging your temporary residence permit, document submission deadlines, or potential risks, it’s important to assess the situation in advance and develop the right strategy. Mistakes in migration procedures can lead to long-term complications.