International students who come to Ukraine for higher education often seek to find a job while studying. This allows them to gain valuable experience, improve their professional skills, and support themselves financially. However, to work legally, they need to obtain a work permit. This article will examine the procedure for obtaining a work permit, the required documents, and other essential aspects.
The main points of obtaining a work permit for foreign students
Why do you need a work permit?
According to Ukrainian law, international students can only work while studying if they have a work permit. This allows the state to control the labor market, ensure students' rights, and prevent illegal labor.
Conditions for obtaining a permit
International students can obtain a work permit provided that:
- They study at a higher education institution in Ukraine.
- They have entered into an employment agreement (contract) or a gig contract with the employer.
- The work is separate from their educational process.
The procedure for obtaining a permit
Preparation of documents
To obtain a work permit, an international student must prepare the following documents:
- An application in the prescribed form can be obtained from the territorial executive body that implements the state policy in employment and labor migration.
- A copy of the passport: Copies of the pages of the passport document with personal data and a duly certified translation into Ukrainian.
- Color photograph measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
- A copy of the order of the higher education institution on enrollment confirms the student's status.
- Written consent of the higher education institution regarding employment: In any form, the institution undertakes to notify the relevant authorities of the student's expulsion.
- A draft employment agreement (contract) or gig contract: Certified by the employer.
Submission of documents
After preparing the necessary documents, the student or their employer submits them to the territorial body of the central executive body that implements the state policy in employment and labor migration. This can be done in person, by post, or through the employer's electronic cabinet on the official authority website.
Consideration of the application
The territorial authority considers the application within seven working days from the date of its registration. If all documents are in order, the student receives a work permit. If necessary, additional checks may be carried out.
The cost of obtaining a permit
Obtaining a work permit for international students is free, making this process affordable for most students.
Permit validity period
The permit is issued for the employment agreement (contract) duration but for up to one year. If the student continues their studies and intends to work, the permit may be extended upon submission of the relevant documents.
Reasons for refusal to issue a permit
There are certain circumstances under which a student may be refused a work permit:
- Incomplete set of documents.
- Inaccurate data in the submitted documents.
- Inconsistency of the terms of the employment contract with Ukrainian legislation.
- Lack of written consent from a higher education institution.
Refusal and appeal
In case of refusal to issue a permit, a student can appeal this decision by the established procedure. You can apply to the relevant authority or the court to do this.
Features of employment
International students can work full-time or part-time, and their work mustn’t interfere with their studies. Employers are interested in hiring international students because of their knowledge of foreign languages and cultural awareness.
Example:
Anna, a student from Poland, is studying computer science at Kyiv University. She found a job as a junior developer in an IT company. Anna prepared all the necessary documents and submitted them to the local executive authority. Within a week, she received a work permit and could officially start her job while combining it with her studies.
Benefits of legal employment for foreign students
Legal employment has several advantages for both students and employers:
- Protection of employees' rights: Students receive all appropriate social guarantees and protection by Ukraine's labor legislation.
- Work experience: An opportunity to gain valuable work experience that will be useful in your future career.
- Financial stability: Students can support themselves financially, allowing them to focus on their studies.
- Legality: No risk of fines and other legal issues.
Conclusion
Obtaining a work permit for international students in Ukraine is an essential step for legal employment. Complying with all legal requirements and timely preparing and submitting documents will help avoid problems and ensure a successful combination of work and study. If you have any questions or need additional advice, we recommend contacting competent authorities or legal experts in labor law.
