How can foreigners in Ukraine obtain a long-term type D visa?

Long-term visa type D is one of the most critical components for foreigners planning a long-term stay in Ukraine. This visa allows entry to the country to obtain a temporary or permanent residence permit. The D visa is the first step for people who want to live, work, or study in Ukraine for a long time. In this article, we will look at how to obtain a type D visa, what documents are required, and what is essential to know before applying.

What is a type D visa?

A type D visa, or a long-term visa, is granted to foreigners for a stay in Ukraine exceeding 90 days. This visa is issued to obtain a temporary or permanent residence permit and work, study, or family reunification. A long-term visa allows multiple entries and stays in Ukraine during its validity (usually up to 90 days within six months).

Who can obtain a type D visa?

Foreigners with grounds for a long-term stay in Ukraine can obtain a type D visa. The main reasons for obtaining it include the following:

• Employment. An employer in Ukraine can issue a work permit, which allows a foreign employee to obtain a type D visa.
• Education. Foreigners enrolled in Ukrainian educational institutions can also obtain a D visa for the study period.
• Family reunification. Persons whose close relatives are citizens of Ukraine or have a residence permit can apply for a type D visa to reunite with them.
• Religious activities. Missionaries and representatives of religious organizations can obtain a long-term visa for their activities in Ukraine.
• Scientific or cultural activities. Specialists working on scientific projects or participating in cultural programs are eligible for a type D visa.

Documents required to obtain a type D visa

To apply for a type D visa, you must prepare a package of documents confirming the purpose of your long-term stay in Ukraine. The list of documents may vary depending on the reason for obtaining a visa but generally includes

1. A foreign passport. The validity of the passport must exceed the period of your planned stay in Ukraine by at least three months.
2. Visa application form. A completed application form with your data.
3. Photos. As a rule, you must provide 1-2 pictures of a specific size.
4. Documents confirming the purpose of the trip. These can be employment contracts, invitations to study, family reunification documents, etc.
5. Medical insurance. The insurance must cover the entire period of your stay in Ukraine.
6. A ticket or booking for a trip. This confirms your plans to enter Ukraine.
7. Payment of the consular fee. The fee, which depends on your country of citizenship, varies from 65 to 200 euros.

Where to apply?

Documents for a type D visa are submitted at the Ukrainian consulate or embassy in the applicant's country of residence. Depending on the situation's complexity, the procedure can take up to 10 business days and sometimes up to 30 days. Therefore, plan your trip and submit documents taking into account these deadlines.

The procedure for obtaining a visa

The process of obtaining a type D visa involves several stages:

1. Preparation of documents. This is the most crucial stage, during which you must carefully collect all the necessary documents, including confirmation of the purpose of your stay.
2. I am applying to the consulate. All documents and the completed application form must be submitted to the Ukrainian consulate or embassy.
3. Consideration of the application. The consulate has the right to request additional documents or conduct an interview.
4. They are obtaining a visa. If all the documents are in order, the applicant receives a visa in their passport.

Interesting facts about type D visa

• Ukraine issues D-type visas only based on certain documents, such as work or study permits, and not based on tourist or short-term visas.
• A type D visa is valid only within Ukraine. Upon its expiry, the foreigner must extend it or obtain a residence permit.
• A D visa does not entitle you to permanent residence in Ukraine - for this purpose, you need to obtain a temporary or permanent residence permit.

What do you need to know before applying?

There are several essential things to consider before applying for a visa:

• Validity of documents. All documents must be up to date at the time of submission.
• The purpose of the trip. A type D visa can be obtained only for official reasons, such as employment, study, or family reunification.
• Proof of financial solvency. Sometimes, you may need a document confirming your ability to support your stay in Ukraine financially.

Conclusion.

Obtaining a long-term type D visa to Ukraine is a complex process that requires careful preparation and collection of a package of documents. Regardless of the purpose of your stay, whether it is work, study, or family circumstances, it is worthwhile to familiarise yourself with the requirements and follow all the procedures in advance. A D-type visa is only the first step towards a long-term stay in Ukraine, as after obtaining it, you need to apply for a residence permit.