Ukraine's Defense Ministry Streamlines Veteran ID Replacement Process, New Rules Effective 2026

Simplified Process for Replacing Veteran ID Cards

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukraine's Ministry of Defense has introduced a simplified procedure for military personnel to replace lost, damaged, or stolen combat veteran identification cards (UBD). The new rules, which will take effect in 2026, eliminate the previous requirements to publish notices in print media and to obtain police certificates. This change will significantly ease the administrative burden for service members who need to recover these crucial documents.

The UBD certificate is a vital document granting access to social benefits and state guarantees. The Ministry has published a step-by-step guide for its replacement, with the process differing based on the applicant's service status. Active-duty personnel can submit a report directly to their military unit commander. Those discharged from service must apply with a formal request at their local territorial recruitment and social support center, based on their place of registration.

Steps for Document Replacement

In cases of loss or theft, the following documents must accompany the application:

• A copy of the lost ID (if available);
• The original and a copy of the document's coupon sheet;
• A copy of the first page of the passport or national ID card;
• Two matte color photographs.

If the ID card was damaged, the application must include the original damaged card itself, the coupon sheet, a passport copy, and two photographs. Should the document be destroyed during a combat mission, an official investigation is conducted, and a new certificate is issued based on its findings. In this specific scenario, the service member only needs to submit an application and photographs. This reform is part of broader efforts to modernize veteran support in Ukraine, a nation with a large and growing population of combat veterans.

These changes will enable military personnel to replace their IDs more quickly and with less hassle, thereby improving their access to social protections.

"Simplifying the procedure for replacing a combat veteran's ID is a crucial step in supporting our service members, as reducing bureaucratic requirements will significantly cut the time needed to obtain essential documents."

Furthermore, the legislative amendments demonstrate the state's commitment to ensuring the social protection of combat participants, underscoring the importance of supporting both veterans and active-duty personnel in meeting their needs.