Clarification from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine about the document for returning to Ukraine
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has provided clarification regarding the procedure for obtaining the Document for Returning to Ukraine, known as the 'white passport', for citizens who find themselves abroad without a valid foreign passport. This document confirms identity and citizenship for urgent entry into Ukraine but is not a replacement for a foreign passport and is not suitable for traveling to other countries.
Procedure for obtaining the document
The document can be obtained at Ukrainian embassies or consulates abroad in cases where a citizen:
- has lost their passport;
- has an expired passport;
- has a damaged passport;
- does not have a passport.
No prior online registration is needed to obtain the document. It is important to note that men of conscription age (18 – 60 years) do not need to submit an electronic military registration document.
Individuals from 16 years old can obtain the document, as well as children under 16 years old and incapacitated persons with the application of legal representatives. To obtain the document, the following must be submitted:
- application form;
- internal passport (if available);
- photograph;
- document confirming payment of the consular fee.
Additionally, a birth certificate is required for children. In cases where documents have been lost in a country without a Ukrainian consulate, the document can be sent by mail.
"The document for returning to Ukraine is not an absolute replacement for a foreign passport"
This is an important clarification for those planning to return to Ukraine but do not have a valid foreign passport. Thus, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has simplified procedures for Ukrainians who find themselves in difficult situations abroad and provided clear instructions for obtaining the document.
This decision by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is an important step in supporting citizens who, due to various circumstances, cannot return home with valid documents. The simplification of the procedure for obtaining the document for returning will allow many Ukrainians who find themselves in difficult situations abroad to return home faster, which is especially relevant in the context of current challenges. This clarification may be useful for those planning to travel or who are already outside Ukraine without valid foreign passports.