Ukrainians Abroad Need to Check Passports – Some Documents Have Become Invalid
Some foreign passports of Ukrainian citizens are no longer recognized as valid for international travel. The Embassy of Ukraine in the Hellenic Republic drew attention to this.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine canceled the temporary procedure that allowed the use of foreign passports with extended validity. This mechanism was in effect from the end of February 2022 until October 28, 2025, introduced due to the full-scale war and limited operation of consular offices.
After the cancellation of this rule, "extended" passports are no longer accepted for traveling abroad. In such cases, airlines may refuse boarding, and border services of other countries may deny entry.
This applies to both adults and children whose documents contained family member data under the old procedure. Previously, the temporary extension was applied due to difficulties in consular operations, but now diplomatic missions have resumed standard operations, and the State Enterprise "Document" units issue passports abroad.
Most countries recognize only passports with a valid period. For Ukrainian citizens, this is:
- 10 years for persons aged 16 and over;
- 4 years for children under 16 years old.
After the expiration of the validity period, the document must be reissued.
The passport must be replaced if:
- its validity period has expired;
- the document was extended under the temporary procedure;
- the passport contains data about children or family members under the old rules.
Without a valid foreign passport, crossing the border and international travel are impossible.
A new document can be issued through:
- Ukrainian embassies or consulates abroad;
- branches of the State Enterprise "Document" in the countries where they operate;
- units of the State Migration Service of Ukraine or Administrative Service Centres.
It is separately noted that foreign passports of children containing information about parents or other family members under the old temporary procedure are also considered invalid. In such cases, it is recommended to arrange a new document in advance.
Ukrainians abroad with invalid passports can contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy or consulate to obtain a temporary return certificate. This document allows unhindered return to Ukraine.
Subscribe to our Telegram channel t.me/sudua and to Google News SUD.UA, as well as to our VIBER and WhatsApp, our page on Facebook and on Instagram to stay informed about the most important events.
