10 categories of men who are not subject to mobilization: who will receive a deferment from May 2025
Martial law in Ukraine has been extended until August 6, 2025, and general mobilization is maintained. Men aged 18 to 60 must register for military service, and specific categories may be mobilized. Traveling abroad for those liable for military service is prohibited, with certain exceptions.
Lawyer Dmytro Franchuk explained how mobilization will take place in May 2025, who is entitled to a deferment and how to obtain it, and who can cross the border.
Who can be mobilized in May
General mobilization applies to men aged 25 to 60. However, as soon as a young man reaches 18, he must register for military service and undergo a medical examination.
The expert noted that everyone without a deferment or reservation can be drafted into the army. Special attention is paid to those with combat experience or specialties, such as drone operators, sappers, artillerymen, or assault riflemen.
Mobilization of men over 50 takes place on general terms. Many are already serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, often directly on the front lines.
Who is not subject to mobilization
The following cannot be drafted:
persons with disabilities of groups 1, 2, or 3;
those who are recognized as unfit by the results of a medical commission;
men over 60 years of age;
citizens who constantly care for disabled relatives;
parents of three or more children;
those whose spouse or parents have disabilities of groups 1 or 2;
full-time or dual-education students, as well as postgraduate students;
persons convicted of serious crimes;
people who have lost a close relative due to war or were in captivity.
When can you get a deferment?
The main grounds for receiving a deferment:
Family circumstances can include having three children under 18 or raising a child on your own. It can also include caring for a seriously ill or disabled person.
Health.
Education.
Official necessity.
To receive a deferment, you should collect documents confirming the reasons, such as children’s birth certificates or disability certificates.
An application for a deferment must be submitted to the head of the territorial recruitment and social support center (TCS) at the place of registration. It should indicate the reason for the deferment and a list of documents. If there is already a conclusion from the medical commission, it should be added to the package. Documents are submitted in the original or a certified copy.
The head of the TCS makes the decision on the deferment. If the decision is refused, it can be appealed in court or to a higher authority.
If a person is mobilized despite a postponement
Franchuk advises that in the event of detention, report the presence of a postponement and, if possible, provide the relevant certificate. If you do not have it, you should note that the certificate is available and can be handed over by relatives.
If the person is already in a military unit, you must submit a written application through the officer on duty. Relatives or a lawyer can also submit such an application with the necessary documents attached.
In addition, you can file a complaint against the CCC employees about a rights violation or initiate an official inspection. Mobilization can also be appealed in an administrative court, requesting that the decision be suspended until the case is considered. Additionally, you can contact the Human Rights Commissioner.
Do I need to pass a medical examination to obtain a postponement?
If the conclusion of the medical commission “unfit” was received no more than a year ago, there is no need to pass a new medical examination. However, in some cases, the CCC may require a re-examination.
In 2025, the medical examination will not be possible to pass online; it must be passed in person.
Does a deferral allow you to travel abroad?
Having a deferral does not guarantee automatic permission to leave the country. A separate written permit is required to cross the border.
