New rules for men's departure from 2026: changes for media, booking and digital registration

New border crossing rules for men in Ukraine

Starting from January 1, 2026, new border crossing rules for men will come into effect in Ukraine, which will simplify the process for media workers, introduce changes in booking, and implement digital registration for departure to EU countries. These changes are aimed at providing more convenient conditions for those working in strategic communications.

According to the new rules, media and strategic communication workers aged 23 to 60 will be able to obtain a permit for a foreign trip for up to 60 days. Previously, permits were issued by the Ministry of Culture, but now the basis for obtaining a permit will be a letter from the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting. In addition, the 72-hour deadline for checking lists from critically important enterprises has been canceled, which should simplify the departure process.

Categories of citizens who can travel without hindrance

A temporary reservation for 45 days has been introduced for defense industry workers. The possibility of banning the departure of men who have reservations at critically important enterprises is also being discussed. It should be recalled that unhindered departure is allowed for the following categories of citizens:

• young men aged 18–22,
• men over 60 years old,
• persons exempt from military service due to health reasons,
• parents of multiple children,
• persons with disabilities and volunteers.

Moreover, the EU has an Entry/Exit System (EES) that requires mandatory digital registration for everyone crossing the border. At the border, there will also be mandatory facial scanning and fingerprinting of four fingers for all individuals over 12 years old. It is worth noting that having the right to leave does not guarantee crossing the border without a military registration document.

These innovations may significantly change the procedure for men's departure from Ukraine, especially for those working in media and strategic communications.

The introduced changes in the rules for leaving the country may become an important step for supporting freedom of speech and ensuring information security in Ukraine. Easing the conditions for journalists and media workers will facilitate their activities abroad, which is especially relevant in the face of modern challenges. At the same time, the new rules may spark discussions about their impact on the defense industry and the country's overall security.