Over 2,000 Undocumented Migrants Detected in Ukraine, Majority Found in Kyiv and Surrounding Region

"Migrant" Operation Uncovers Illegal Migration Trends in Ukraine

According to Укрінформ — Мігранти: Between May 22 and October 30, 2026, Ukrainian authorities identified more than 2,000 undocumented migrants during the nationwide "Migrant" operation. The highest concentration of these individuals was recorded in the capital city Kyiv and its surrounding oblast. The State Migration Service of Ukraine took decisive action, ordering forced returns, deportations, placements in temporary detention centers, and entry bans for numerous foreign nationals. This initiative was carried out in collaboration with law enforcement and other government agencies to combat illegal migration and related violations.

Key Outcomes of the Initiative

Throughout the operation, officials uncovered 2,002 cases of illegal migration. Based on thorough inspections, the State Migration Service issued:

• 1,708 orders for compulsory return of foreign nationals;
• 294 deportation decisions;
• Placement of 209 individuals in temporary accommodation facilities;
• Entry bans imposed on 1,814 foreign nationals.

Kyiv city and the Kyiv region accounted for the largest share, with 473 undocumented migrants identified-representing 23.6% of the total.

The migrants primarily originated from the following countries:

• Azerbaijan – 345 individuals (17.2%);
• Moldova – 248 individuals (12.4%);
• Colombia – 244 individuals (12.2%);
• Russian Federation – 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%);
• Other countries – 488 individuals (24.4%).

As a result of the enforcement actions, 6,218 foreign nationals and Ukrainian citizens faced administrative penalties. Fines totaling approximately 20 million Ukrainian hryvnias were imposed, with around 17.5 million hryvnias collected by November 2, 2026. The operation was coordinated with the National Police, State Border Guard Service, Security Service of Ukraine, Foreign Intelligence Service, State Bureau of Investigations, among others.

The State Migration Service reported: 'From May 22 to October 30, 2026, 2,002 undocumented migrants were detected. Following inspections, the Service issued 1,708 compulsory return orders; 294 deportations; 209 placements in temporary accommodation centers for foreigners and stateless persons; and entry bans for 1,814 foreign nationals.'

The "Migrant" operation highlights Ukraine's intensified efforts to address illegal migration, a persistent challenge for the country. The significant number of detections and penalties underscores the critical role of strict migration control in safeguarding national security. These results are expected to influence future migration and security policies, reinforcing the rule of law in Ukraine.