Over 2,000 Undocumented Migrants Detected in Ukraine, Kyiv Region Most Affected

Ukraine’s "Migrant" Operation Uncovers Over 2,000 Illegal Migrants

According to Укрінформ — Мігранти: Between May 22 and October 30, 2026, Ukrainian authorities identified more than 2,000 undocumented migrants as part of the nationwide "Migrant" operation. The Kyiv city and surrounding Kyiv region reported the highest concentration, with 473 individuals accounting for 23.6% of the total detected. This large-scale initiative was conducted in cooperation with multiple government agencies to combat illegal migration and safeguard national security.

In total, 2,002 unauthorized migrants were uncovered during the operation. Following thorough inspections, the State Migration Service of Ukraine (SMS) issued 1,708 orders for forced return, 294 orders for deportation, and placed 209 foreign nationals and stateless persons in temporary accommodation centers. Additionally, entry bans were imposed on 1,814 individuals.

Countries of Origin Among Detected Migrants

The primary countries of origin for those found living illegally in Ukraine included:

• Azerbaijan: 345 individuals (17.2%)
• Moldova: 248 individuals (12.4%)
• Colombia: 244 individuals (12.2%)
• Russia: 179 individuals (8.9%)
• Turkey: 158 individuals (7.9%)
• Georgia: 109 individuals (5.4%)
• Uzbekistan: 93 individuals (4.6%)
• Armenia: 92 individuals (4.6%)
• India: 46 individuals (2.3%)

The remaining 488 migrants (24.4%) came from various other countries.

Administrative penalties were imposed on 6,218 foreigners and Ukrainian citizens, with fines totaling approximately 20 million hryvnias. By November 2, 2026, around 17.5 million hryvnias had already been collected for the state budget.

“From May 22 to October 30, 2026, 2,002 illegal migrants were identified. Following inspections, the SMS issued 1,708 forced return orders, 294 deportation orders, placed 209 foreigners and stateless persons in temporary accommodation, and banned entry to 1,814 individuals,” announced the State Migration Service.

The "Migrant" operation marked a significant effort to identify and halt violations of the legal status of foreigners and stateless persons in Ukraine. Its success was made possible through collaboration with the National Police, State Border Guard Service, Security Service of Ukraine, Foreign Intelligence Service, State Bureau of Investigations, and other agencies.

This coordinated approach highlights Ukraine’s ongoing commitment to addressing illegal migration, a challenge faced by many nations worldwide. The results of the operation signal continued tightening of migration controls, which may influence future migration policies in the country.