The question of the departure of conscripted men abroad remains one of the most relevant topics during the war. Under the conditions of martial law, when the state mobilizes resources to protect its territory, the procedure for crossing the border for men aged 18 to 60 is regulated especially strictly. The ban on the departure of this category of citizens is enshrined in Presidential Decree No. 64/2022 and is detailed in Resolution No. 57 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. However, 2025 brought several important changes to the rules that affect the procedure and grounds for departure.
Documents allowing border crossing are approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. Border guards have the right to check the presence of military registration documents and other supporting documents in men of mobilization age. In particular, the presence of a corresponding mark on the postponement of mobilization has become a mandatory condition for those who have the right to leave.
Who can travel abroad during martial law
Men who do not fall into the category of conscripts, that is, under 18 or over 60, as well as those who are excluded from military registration due to health conditions, can cross the border. For conscripts, there are clearly defined grounds for departure, in particular:
- state of health;
- teaching;
- performance of official duties (for civil servants);
- family circumstances;
- performance of professional duties.
In order to cross the border, such persons must provide relevant documents, in particular, a certificate from the Military Commissariat and confirmation of the grounds.
Changes to the rules in 2025
The innovations of 2025 concern, in particular, men aged 18 to 25 who, during martial law, signed a contract for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine or intelligence agencies of the Ministry of Defense. If such persons did not undergo military service (apart from basic training) before concluding the contract, they may go abroad if they have:
- certificates issued by the commander of the military unit or the head of the territorial recruitment center;
- military registration document.
This norm is regulated by the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service” and applies to contracts for a period of one year.
In addition, in 2025, a new entry-exit system (EES system) will be implemented for non-EU citizens to Schengen countries. Ukrainians who do not have a long-term visa will be able to obtain a short-term permit through the ETIAS system, which will become part of the general control system at EU borders.
Thus, the procedure for going abroad in 2025 underwent changes aimed at improving control and adapting to the new challenges of wartime. This confirms the importance of compliance with established rules for citizens, as well as the state’s ability to ensure a balance between the needs of mobilization and the rights of certain categories of the population.
