Ukraine has changed the procedure for granting statuses to foreign defence lawyers

The Ukrainian government has improved the procedure for granting statuses to foreigners and stateless persons who defended Ukraine. This was reported by the Ministry of Veterans' Affairs. As the ministry noted, this decision is a manifestation of the state's gratitude to those who, not having Ukrainian citizenship, stood shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainian military.

From now on they will have a clear, transparent and dignified mechanism of official recognition of their contribution to the defence of the state, - the ministry stressed.

What changes are envisaged

The innovations concern the procedure for granting the statuses of a participant in hostilities and a person with a disability due to war to foreigners and stateless persons.

The main changes:

• The Ministry of Veterans becomes the only body authorised to grant these statuses to foreigners and stateless persons. This will ensure a unified approach regardless of the place of residence of such persons.

• The same grounds and rules are introduced for foreigners and stateless persons as for Ukrainian citizens.

• The application procedure has been simplified - now it can be done:

  • in person at the Ministry of Veterans Affairs (including by post);

  • through the Centres for the provision of administrative services (CNAP).

The applications will be considered by a special interdepartmental commission established under the Ministry of Veterans Affairs.

Deadlines and documents

If the applicant does not have a full package of documents, the commission is obliged to request them from the competent authorities. In case of refusal to provide information - this will be the basis for refusal to grant the status.

The term of consideration of the application, taking into account the request for documents, will be up to 30 days.

Several Cabinet of Ministers resolutions - No. 413, No. 685, No. 1041 and No. 302 - have also been amended.

Part of the systemic veteran policy

The Ministry of Veterans stressed that this decision is part of the systemic work to form a fair veteran policy. Ukraine recognises the contribution of everyone who defends its freedom and independence, regardless of origin or citizenship.