Government and military authorities
Challenge decisions, actions or inaction by military units and public authorities.
Free legal aid in Ukraine
Legal aid for foreign military service members and veterans
This page is for foreign nationals who serve or have served in Ukraine’s Defence Forces. Understand your rights, resolve legal issues and get professional legal support in Ukraine.
Support for foreign service members and veterans
What we can help you with
If you are a foreign national who serves or has served in Ukraine’s Defence Forces, you can ask the Free Legal Aid system for help with legal issues connected with your service, veteran status and everyday life in Ukraine.
Pensions and social payments
Apply for or recalculate pensions, benefits and other social payments.
Housing and utility bills
Correct errors in utility service calculations and protect your housing rights.
Family and inheritance
Get support with alimony, divorce, inheritance and other family matters.
Documents and court proceedings
Prepare legal documents and, where the law provides, receive representation of your interests in court.
How to get help in English
Start with the chat on this page
Click the green chat button in the bottom-right corner. The widget opens an English-language conversation where you can briefly describe your legal issue and receive guidance on the next steps.
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Open the chat using the green button on this page.
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Describe your situation and mention which documents you have.
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Follow the guidance on documents, a bureau visit or further legal assistance.
Service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Guarantees for foreign military service members
The contract between a foreign national and the state establishes the legal relationship during military service. It also provides for rights, guarantees, benefits and compensation under Ukrainian law.
Appointment and training
Appointment to a military position, assignment of rank and career advancement take into account education, military speciality, professional skills and personal qualities. Training and professional development are provided in military training units and centres.
Medical care
Foreign military service members are entitled to healthcare and medical assistance in healthcare facilities of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.
Service time and rest
Service time, rest and movement within Ukraine on weekends and public holidays are guaranteed subject to the requirements of military service, exercises, combat duties and other service assignments.
Leave
Available leave may include annual basic leave, additional leave for special service conditions, family leave without pay and medical leave based on a military medical commission’s conclusion.
Material and financial support
Service members are entitled to material support, food allowances in the cases established by law, relocation allowance and financial support that may include seniority, qualification and other statutory payments.
Social guarantees
Other social benefits for foreign military service members and their family members are determined by Ukrainian laws and other regulatory acts.
Not sure where to start?
Tell us briefly what happened
Use the English-language chat for initial guidance, or find the nearest Free Legal Aid bureau for an in-person visit.
