What do you need to know about extending foreigners’ stay in Ukraine?

The procedure for extending the period of stay of foreigners in Ukraine is an integral part of migration legislation. It is regulated by the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 150 dated 15 February 2012. This issue is relevant for foreigners who plan to stay in the country for a long time for various reasons: study, work, medical treatment, or personal circumstances. Let's take a closer look at the requirements set by the law, who is eligible for an extension, and how to avoid possible difficulties.

Main grounds for extending your stay

According to the current legislation, foreigners may temporarily stay in Ukraine for up to 90 days within 180 days if they arrive under the visa-free regime. However, this period may be extended if there are valid reasons.

Family circumstances

If a foreigner has close relatives in Ukraine who are citizens or residents, they can apply for an extension of their stay. This applies to family reunification cases, such as when a foreigner is married to a Ukrainian citizen or cares for a close relative in need of assistance.

Medical reasons

One of the most common reasons for extending the stay is medical treatment or severe health problems. Foreigners undergoing treatment in Ukraine or with urgent medical conditions can apply with relevant medical documents. This period is usually extended for the period necessary to complete the treatment.

Work or study contracts

Foreigners working in Ukraine under an official contract or studying in higher education institutions can also apply for an extension of their stay. The employment or study must be documented with an employment contract, a certificate of enrolment in an educational institution, and other documents.

Force majeure circumstances

Extending your stay in case of unforeseen situations, such as a natural disaster, accident, vehicle repair, or other extraordinary circumstances, is also possible. For example, if a foreigner is delayed in returning due to natural disasters or severe transport problems, he/she may extend his/her stay until the issue is resolved.

Procedure for applying for an extension

To extend their stay in Ukraine, a foreigner must apply to the State Migration Service of Ukraine no earlier than ten days and no later than three days before the end of the permitted period of stay.

A foreigner or a host party must submit the following documents:

• Passport or identity document.
• Supporting documents that justify the need to extend the period of stay (medical certificate, employment contract, marriage certificate, etc.).
• Documentary evidence of financial solvency. This may include bank statements or certificates proving that you have sufficient funds for living expenses.
• Health insurance covers the entire period of extended stay.

The applicant must also pay an administrative fee, after which their application will be reviewed. Usually, the decision to extend the period of stay is made within five working days.

Reasons for refusal

There are several reasons why an application for an extension may be rejected:

• Missed deadline. If the application is submitted later than three working days before the expiry of the permitted period, this may be grounds for refusal.
• Incomplete package of documents. The absence of supporting documents, such as a medical certificate or an employment contract, may result in a refusal.
• Violation of previous conditions of stay. If a foreigner has already exceeded the permitted period of stay or has other violations of migration law, they may be refused an extension.
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Liability for violation of the period of stay

Extending the stay in Ukraine is an opportunity to stay longer and an obligation to comply with the established rules. If a foreigner exceeds the permitted period without a proper extension, this can lead to severe consequences:

• A fine. Foreigners who overstay without an extension may be fined a significant amount.
• Deportation. In case of a severe violation of the law, you may be forcibly deported from the country with a ban on re-entry for a certain period.
• Refusal of future visas. Overstaying may also negatively affect obtaining a visa to Ukraine or other countries.

Interesting facts about extending your stay

• Most of the requests for extensions are submitted for work reasons. Ukraine has become an attractive market for foreign specialists, especially in the IT sector, so most requests are for extending their stay through employment contracts.
• Flexible conditions for students. International students can apply for an extended stay for the study period. Ukrainian educational institutions actively attract students from different countries, offering convenient conditions for legalizing their stay.

Conclusion

Precise rules govern the procedure for extending the period of stay of foreigners in Ukraine, and compliance with them is an essential condition for a smooth stay in the country. Foreigners should prepare documents in advance and apply to the State Migration Service to extend the permitted period of stay.

STATUS KO Law Firm offers qualified assistance in extending the period of stay, advising on the collection of documents, and providing legal support at all stages. Our team of experts will help you avoid difficulties and extend your stay in Ukraine without any problems.