Pension Reform 2026: New Requirements for Work Experience for Millions of Ukrainians

Updated Pension Exit Rules in Ukraine

Starting from January 1, 2026, updated pension exit rules will come into effect in Ukraine, affecting millions of citizens and strengthening the requirements for insurance experience. From now on, only Ukrainians with 33 years of insurance experience will have the right to retire at 60. For those who have accumulated between 23 and 32 years of experience, retirement at 63 will be possible. If a person has between 15 and 22 years of experience, they will be able to retire at 65.

The average employment experience in Ukraine today stands at 30-31 years, which may impact a significant number of citizens. The government is tightening the requirements for insurance experience, explaining this as a necessity to 'balance the pension system and reduce budget pressure.'

• Right to retire at 60 years - 33 years of experience
• Retirement at 63 years - 23-32 years of experience
• Retirement at 65 years - 15-22 years of experience

For citizens who lack the required insurance experience, there is an opportunity to buy additional experience through the Pension Fund.

Pension Indexation and Its Impact

Furthermore, a new pension indexation is scheduled for March 2026, which is an important aspect in light of the new requirements. These changes may significantly impact many Ukrainians' plans for retirement and financial security in old age.

Updated requirements for pension experience may create additional difficulties for Ukrainians planning to retire in the coming years, as most of them will not have the necessary experience.

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This underscores the importance of understanding the new rules and the opportunities offered by the Pension Fund for purchasing experience. Further changes in the pension system may impact social stability and the well-being of the population amid economic challenges. It is also important to monitor subsequent pension indexations, which may help offset the impact of new requirements on the financial situation of retirees.