Ukraine Bars Male Pensioners Under 60 from Leaving the Country

Travel Restrictions During Martial Law in Ukraine

According to ХВИЛЯ: Under the current martial law, Ukraine prohibits men eligible for military service-including those who have retired early-from traveling abroad if they are under 60 years old. The only exception is for individuals receiving disability pensions. Taking early retirement does not cancel military obligations, meaning a pensioner who has not yet turned 60 cannot legally cross the border. Additionally, some civil servants qualify for a long-service pension after turning 45, but this does not change their status as liable for military duty.

Rules for Disability Pensioners

Pensioners with a disability (Groups I, II, or III) are allowed to leave the country, but they must present the following documents at border checkpoints:

• A decision from the Medical-Social Expert Commission (MSEC) or a ruling from an expert team assessing daily functional capacity,
• A valid disability certificate.

At the same time, temporary exit bans apply to individuals who have committed criminal offenses or are evading court or administrative obligations. These restrictions can affect citizens regardless of age or gender.

To check for any temporary restrictions, citizens can use the State Border Guard Service's 'Personal Account' online tool, which operates 24/7 from any device and provides real-time data. However, restrictions tied to martial law are not reflected in this service.

As Victoria Glushak explained, 'If a person retires at, say, 45, they are still considered liable for military service.'

In short, the situation for pensioners seeking to leave Ukraine remains complex and tightly controlled under martial law. This information is crucial for understanding the legal barriers that certain groups face during the ongoing state of emergency. The ban on men subject to military service, along with the specific requirements for disability pensioners, highlights a national focus on security and military readiness. While the 'Personal Account' service helps citizens verify their status, it is important to note that wartime restrictions may not appear in this system.

As the situation evolves, new pension regulations for residents in occupied areas have also been introduced, highlighting the ongoing complexities for various groups within Ukraine. Understanding these changes is essential for comprehending the broader implications of current policies affecting citizens' rights and mobility during martial law.