Student Resident Permit
If you plan to stay in Ukraine for more than 90 days, obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit is mandatory. This permit is the key legal document that allows international students to live in Ukraine for the entire period of their studies.
What is a Temporary Residence Permit?
A Temporary Residence Permit is an official document that:
- serves as your personal identification document in Ukraine;
- confirms the legal grounds for your temporary stay in the country;
- allows you to reside in Ukraine for the full duration of your studies.
Where can you apply?
The permit can be issued at:
- a local office of the State Migration Service of Ukraine, or
- a Center for Administrative Services (CNAP)
- State Enterprise Passport Service DOCUMENT (service fee applies).
When should you apply?
The processing time for the Temporary Residence Permit is up to 15 working days.
Therefore, it is extremely important to submit your application no later than 15 working days before the expiration of your visa or visa-free stay.
Early submission helps avoid overstaying and ensures a smooth legal stay in Ukraine.
Documents required
To apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, an international student must submit the following documents:
- a valid foreign passport with a Type D visa and an official Ukrainian entry stamp;
- a copy of the passport personal data page, translated into Ukrainian and notarized;
- a valid health insurance policy covering the entire period of the permit (and a copy);
- an official confirmation from the university proving enrollment and specifying the established period of study;
- a letter of obligation from the educational institution, confirming that the university will notify the State Migration Service in case of expulsion;
- proof of payment of the administrative fee.
Additional documents may be requested if applicable, including:
- proof of accommodation (ownership document, rental or sublease agreement);
- an employment or internship contract.
Validity of the permit
The Temporary Residence Permit is issued for the duration of your studies, as officially defined by the university’s order establishing study periods for international students.
After receiving your Temporary Residence Permit, the next important step is to register your place of residence in Ukraine. You have 30 calendar days to complete this registration, so it’s best not to delay.
Missing this deadline may result in a fine. While your residence permit will still serve as an official ID, without address registration you may face difficulties accessing everyday services, such as opening a bank account, receiving medical care, or using other administrative services.
Please note that during martial law in Ukraine, residence permits that expired after February 24, 2022, remain valid. However, address registration is still mandatory in order for the permit to function properly and for you to stay in Ukraine comfortably and legally.
