Ukraine to Count Foreign Work Toward Domestic Pensions Starting in 2026

Reforms to Ukraine's Pension System

According to ХВИЛЯ: Starting in 2026, Ukraine will implement a system to combine insurance periods earned both domestically and abroad for the purpose of qualifying for an old-age pension. This change is designed to benefit Ukrainian citizens who have worked in other countries. The key requirement for foreign work experience to be counted is the existence of a ratified international agreement between Ukraine and the country where the individual was employed.

Procedure for Verifying Foreign Employment

The verification of foreign work periods will be handled by Ukraine's Pension Fund (PFU). If an applicant lacks the necessary documentation from abroad, PFU specialists will contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) within five business days. It is important to note that documents obtained from other countries are only recognized in Ukraine if they have been properly legalized. Once official confirmation is received, the service period is counted in calendar terms immediately.

If confirmation from the other country arrives more than three months after the initial application, the application date will be considered the day the foreign documents were received. The PFU is also obligated to proactively inform citizens of their newly acquired pension rights if the fund receives confirmation of foreign service before an application is even submitted.

For individuals who believe they may not have sufficient total service to qualify for a pension, the following steps are outlined:

• Submit an application for a pension to the Pension Fund of Ukraine;
• Attach documents certifying work performed abroad;
• If these documents require verification or are missing, PFU specialists will contact the MFA;
• Should data exchange be impossible due to technical or political reasons, the request will be re-sent as soon as communication channels are restored.

These pension system reforms aim to improve conditions and ensure social protection for citizens who have worked overseas. This move aligns with broader efforts to integrate Ukraine's social policies with European standards. Counting foreign service could be a crucial factor for many Ukrainians planning their retirement and may encourage the ratification of new international agreements.