Employment of Foreign Nationals in International Technical Assistance (ITA) Projects

Engaging foreign specialists in implementing international technical assistance (ITA) projects is common in Ukraine. However, this requires compliance with Ukrainian migration and labor legislation.

Foreign nationals working within a registered ITA project are not required to obtain a work permit. This is provided for by the Law of Ukraine "On Employment of the Population," provided the project is officially registered with the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

As the application for a temporary residence permit must be submitted in person by the foreign national, a type D visa must first be obtained to enter Ukraine. Embassies (consulates/visa centers) of different countries have different rules and requirements for visa issuance, so we recommend familiarizing yourself with them in advance to avoid errors.

It is crucial to ensure that the foreign national obtains the temporary residence permit (i.e., physically arrives in Ukraine and submits the documents) during the validity period of the type D visa.

To obtain the residence permit, the following documents must be submitted to the State Migration Service: a translated passport, photo, application, medical insurance, a document confirming participation in the project, and a copy of the project registration card. If needed, we can accompany the applicant to the Migration Service office.

Coordinating the permit's validity period with the project's duration is also essential. If the project ends early, this may affect the lawfulness of the foreign national's stay in Ukraine.

Obtaining a visa and residence permit requires communication with the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers, which prepares letters of request to the relevant consular institution and further submission to the Migration Service. At every stage, we can provide organizational support and assistance with document preparation (including completion of visa applications, communication with the Cabinet Secretariat, consulates, insurance companies, etc.).

If you plan to engage a foreign specialist or have any doubts regarding legal requirements, we are here to help.