Passport Issuance Abroad for Ukrainian Men Aged 18-60 Now Requires Electronic Military Registration

Passport Requirements for Ukrainian Men Aged 18-60 Residing Abroad

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainian men between 18 and 60 years old living outside the country must present a valid electronic military registration document to receive their passports. The State Migration Service of Ukraine has confirmed that this document is mandatory for passport issuance abroad. However, a physical paper military registration card is not required, as verification can be completed through the 'Reserve+' mobile application.

Current Status of Passport Processing

From September 28 to 30, 2023, the State Migration Service temporarily halted passport issuance due to technical problems with a telecommunications operator and partial loss of access to information systems. Normal service was restored by October 2, 2023, as planned. Passport delivery continues both inside Ukraine and internationally, with electronic queue positions preserved, so applicants do not need to register again.

According to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 981, men aged 18 to 60 applying for consular services must submit an electronic military registration document. Consular officers verify the document’s validity in real time via the official registry. If a man is not listed in the registry, he can be registered for military service remotely without undergoing a medical commission.

“Passports will only be issued to draft-age men abroad if they possess a valid military registration document,” the State Migration Service emphasized.

These updated regulations aim to maintain accurate military records and monitor the movement of men subject to conscription. Given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, these measures are critical for national defense readiness. At the same time, the requirement to have a military registration document before receiving a passport may pose challenges for Ukrainians living abroad.