Publication date: 09.09.2025
Current rules for leaving Ukraine for men aged 18 to 22
Since February 2022, with the introduction of martial law, a ban on leaving Ukraine for men of draft age. This is one of the key restrictions aimed at ensuring a sufficient number of reservists and supporting the country's defense capability. The rules for refugees from Ukraine for men apply to all male citizens aged 18-60 who can be called up for military service. In 2025, the legislation was further tightened. The greatest attention was paid to the younger group - men aged 18-22. Only under exceptional circumstances can people in this age category legally leave Ukraine.
Such cases include:
- serious health problems requiring treatment abroad,
- studying at a foreign university,
- having permanent resident status in another country,
- special family circumstances or official exemption from military service.
The rules for leaving Ukraine during martial law are strictly observed at border crossings.
The services check military documents, entries in mobilization registers and additional certificates confirming the right to leave. The war in Ukraine and the departure of men meant that attempting to illegally cross the border could lead to serious legal consequences, ranging from criminal liability to a ban on leaving the country in the future.
Rules governing the stay of Ukrainian citizens in Poland
Since the beginning of the war, Poland has become one of the main countries accepting refugees from Ukraine rules for men. A number of measures have been introduced to facilitate their rapid adaptation and ensure their safety.
The departure of men from Ukraine regulations stipulate that anyone who has legally crossed the border has the right to temporary protection, legal residence and work. In 2025, the rules known as the "Residence Rules for Ukrainians in Poland 2025" will be in effect, but additional administrative requirements will also be introduced. The procedures for registering addresses have been tightened, and regular renewal of residence permits and confirmation of refugee status or temporary protection has been introduced. Men from Ukraine in Poland 2025 have the same rights as women and children, provided that their departure from Ukraine complies with current regulations. Persons with appropriate certificates can easily access the labor market, education and other forms of support, and their legal status remains stable.
The procedure for legalizing stay in Poland for Ukrainian citizens
The legalization of stay is carried out according to clear rules for the stay of Ukrainians in Poland 2025 rules. Men from Ukraine can obtain the right to reside in Poland on the basis of:
- temporary protection,
- refugee status,
- temporary residence and work permit,
- registration procedure at the place of residence in the voivodeship office.
This process requires the presentation of relevant documents - a passport, proof of border crossing, and often certificates confirming exemption from mobilization. The Polish administration facilitates accelerated procedures for Ukrainian citizens, making it easier for those leaving Ukraine to operate legally in 2025.
Rights and obligations of Ukrainian citizens in Poland
The right of men from Ukraine to live in Poland:
- work without additional permits,
- access to health care,
- use of education and socialbenefits.
The following obligations are imposed:
- comply with Polish law,
- provide the address of residence,
- renew documents in a timely manner.
Thanks to these rules for the stay of Ukrainians in Poland in 2025, men from Ukraine right of residence in Poland will be able to live, work and safely function in society.
Cooperation between the border services of Poland and Ukraine
Border control is one of the most important elements of the current legislation. Poland and Ukraine cooperate in checking documents and monitoring the legality of departure. The war in Ukraine and departure of men led to the fact that the borders have become especially carefully controlled, and any attempt to illegally cross the border entails legal consequences.
Officers from both sides exchange information on people trying to illegally leave the country. This is aimed at preventing circumvention of the law and protecting the mobilization system of Ukraine. At the same time, Poland is working to ensure that refugees from Ukraine are guaranteed protection and administrative support in accordance with the rules for men. This approach allows us to ensure a balance between Ukraine's security interests and respect for the rights of people who legally cross the border.
Frequently asked questions about men leaving Ukraine
Question
Can men aged 18 to 22 leave Ukraine during martial law?
Answer
There is a general ban on leaving Ukraine for men of draft age. Exceptions are persons exempt from mobilization, unemployed persons and persons with permanent residence in another country.
Question
What documents are required for legal residence in Poland?
Answer
You will need a passport, proof of border crossing and an application from the voivodeship office. In addition, military ID cards may be required.
Question
Do Ukrainian citizens have the right to work in Poland?
Answer
Yes, Ukrainian citizens in Poland in 2025 have the right to work without additional permits. The condition is the presence of legal residence status.
Question
What are the responsibilities of Ukrainian citizens living in Poland?
Answer
Responsibilities include compliance with the law, reporting the address of residence, and renewing documents. The rules of stay in Ukraine in 2025 also provide for the obligation to inform the authorities about a change of place of residence.
Question
Does Poland cooperate with Ukraine on border control issues?
Answer
Yes, the cooperation is very close. Poland and Ukraine exchange data on people trying to cross the border illegally.
In 2025, the rules clearly state that men leaving Ukraine can only do so in strictly defined and documented situations. There are clear rules for men leaving Ukraine. Poland, however, provides them with protection and the possibility of legal residence, provided that their departure was legal.
