In Ukraine, foreigners can be employed by both legal entities and private entrepreneurs.

Foreigners can officially work in Ukraine on an equal footing with Ukrainian citizens. They pay taxes and hold various positions.

Foreigners who do not need a work permit

According to Article 26 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a foreigner has the same rights and obligations as a Ukrainian citizen. That is, they can get a job in the same way as a Ukrainian. 

The legislation provides for a category of foreigners who do not need to obtain a work permit:

• foreigners who have been granted a permanent residence permit;
• people who have refugee status and need additional protection;
• representatives of foreign river fleets and airlines that serve such companies in Ukraine;
• employees of foreign media accredited to work in Ukraine;
• athletes who have acquired professional status;
• artists and art workers for professional work in Ukraine;
• employees of emergency services to perform urgent work;
• employees of foreign representative offices registered in Ukraine;
• clergymen temporarily staying in Ukraine at the invitation of religious organisations to carry out canonical activities;
• foreigners who arrived in Ukraine to participate in the implementation of international technical assistance projects;
• foreigners who have stayed in Ukraine to conduct teaching or research activities.

On 28 July 2022, Ukraine adopted a law establishing additional legal and social guarantees for citizens of the Republic of Poland.

Work permit

A work permit for foreigners can be obtained at the regional employment centre at the location of the company.

The employer must submit the following documents to the labour office

• an application in which the employer confirms that the foreigner's position is not related to Ukrainian citizenship and does not require access to state secrets;
• a copy of the pages of the foreigner's passport document with translation;
• a colour photograph measuring 3.5 by 4.5 cm;
• a copy of the draft employment contract with the foreigner or stateless person certified by the employer.

All documents provided by a foreigner must be translated into Ukrainian and notarised.