Law adopted: citizens over 60 years of age will be able to sign a contract for military service

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Law No. 13229, which allows citizens who have reached the age of 60 to serve under a contract in the military. The Verkhovna Rada adopted this document on July 16, 2025, and it will enter into force after its official publication.

According to the new law, persons over the age of 60 can voluntarily conclude a contract for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine during martial law. Both men and women can use this provision, but they must undergo an examination by a military medical commission to determine their fitness for service.

The law provides for a two-month probationary period, during which the candidate’s compliance with the requirements of the service is assessed. If the person does not meet the criteria, the contract will be terminated early. The contract is concluded for one year with the possibility of its extension or re-conclusion. Citizens aged 60 and over may hold both private and sergeant positions, as well as officer positions, if they served after January 1, 2015. Appointment to an officer position requires the approval of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine or the relevant military management body.

Contract service under this law is possible only in conditions of martial law, and after its termination, contracts are automatically terminated. The law does not establish age restrictions for service.

This law does not provide for additional expenses from the state budget. It is aimed at attracting experienced and motivated citizens to strengthen the country’s defense capability in positions that do not require high physical exertion. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will determine the procedure for concluding a contract and a list of necessary documents.