Due to the full-scale invasion of Russia, many citizens of Ukraine were forced to leave the country urgently, often without the possibility of obtaining a foreign passport. Some Ukrainians went abroad with domestic passports, while others lost their documents outside the country. In such cases, returning home can be a difficult task. However, the law provides a return mechanism for such citizens through obtaining an identity card for returning to Ukraine. This document serves as a temporary permit that allows you to cross the border of Ukraine without a valid foreign passport. In this article, we will consider the procedure for obtaining it, the necessary documents and where to apply for registration.
What is an identity card for returning to Ukraine
An identity card for returning to Ukraine is a special document issued by diplomatic institutions of Ukraine abroad. It allows citizens of Ukraine and some other categories of persons to return to their homeland in case of loss or absence of a foreign passport.
Certificates can be obtained by:
- citizens of Ukraine who:
- lost or damaged foreign passport;
- have an expired passport;
- never issued a passport for traveling abroad.
- Stateless persons who have the right to permanent residence in Ukraine.
- Refugees or persons who have additional protection within the limits of Ukrainian legislation.
How to get an identity card for returning to Ukraine
Visit to the diplomatic institution
A citizen of Ukraine or his official representative should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Ukraine in the country of residence.
Submission of documents
To issue a certificate, you must provide:
- Completed application-questionnaire (issued at the consulate).
- A certificate from the local police (if the passport was stolen or lost).
- Any identity document (for example, domestic passport, copy of foreign passport, driver’s license, etc.).
- Documents confirming Ukrainian citizenship (for example, birth certificates for children).
- Power of attorney or document of the representative (if the documents are not submitted by the applicant himself).
- Paid consular fee (the amount depends on the host country).
Waiting for registration
Usually, the certificate is issued within 1-5 working days, depending on the complexity of the document verification.
Use of the certificate
The document is valid for up to 30 days from the date of issue. In case of unforeseen circumstances (for example, transport delay, illness), it can be extended for another 30 days.
Is it possible to return without this certificate?
Some countries may allow Ukrainians to leave without a foreign passport if they have:
- internal passport;
- copy of foreign passport.
However, the rules depend on the specific country, so it is more reliable to issue an identity card for return.
Important recommendations for those who lost their passport abroad
- Contact the police: If your passport has been stolen, you should file a report to avoid fraud.
- Make copies of all documents: passport, birth certificate, etc. and save them in cloud services.
- Before your trip, check the current entry rules at the consulate of Ukraine.
- If difficulties arise, contact lawyers or volunteer organizations for advice.
Therefore, the loss of a passport or its absence is not an obstacle to return to Ukraine. Thanks to the mechanism of issuing an identity card for return, Ukrainians can cross the border without hindrance. To avoid problems, it is important to know your rights in advance, prepare the necessary documents and contact the diplomatic institution of Ukraine as early as possible.
