New requirements for traveling abroad from January 1, 2026: who gets the opportunity to change the border and what are the main changes

The Government of Ukraine has approved a new procedure for citizens to leave the country, which will come into effect on January 1, 2026.

The changes will apply to specific categories of men, but the basic rules remain unchanged. Lawyer Liliya Mamedova explained who can leave Ukraine and under what conditions.

Regarding the right to leave Ukraine after January 1, 2026:

The requirements do not change for women and children under 18: they can cross the border with valid documents and supporting documents from one of the parents or guardians.

The right to leave also remains for persons with disabilities and their companions. This concerns:

Citizens with disabilities of groups I-III;

children with disabilities;

Companions who must present medical documents confirming their wards’ health.

A simplified procedure for leaving is also provided for those who have lost close relatives due to the war.

According to the lawyer, men aged 18 to 22 will have the right to travel without additional conditions, except for specific categories of civil servants. This rule will remain in effect after January 1, 2026.

As for men over 60, they will also be able to cross the border without special confirmations.

For men aged 23 to 60:

They will be able to travel only if there are legitimate reasons, such as:

impossibility of being mobilized (due to disability, family circumstances, etc.);
officially confirmed postponement of mobilization;
trips within the framework of business trips, participation in international competitions, or humanitarian missions.
The main innovation for 2026

From January 1, 2026, a special departure procedure will apply to men aged 23 to 60 who work in the media, journalism, strategic communications, and information sectors.

To travel in connection with professional activities, they will need to have the following documents:

International passport;

Military registration document (paper or electronic);

Invitation from a foreign organization;

A letter from the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting confirming professional status.

The duration of stay abroad within the framework of such trips is limited to 60 days.

Categories for which travel remains unchanged:

There will be no changes for:

Employees of state institutions who have reservations for business trips;

athletes and coaches participating in international competitions;

persons going for treatment;

Participants in humanitarian, cultural, and educational programs.

The basic rules for travel will remain similar to the regulations in force in 2025. However, the mechanism for crossing the border for men aged 23-60 working in the media will be clearly regulated, with a specific list of documents and conditions for travel.