From the first days of Russia’s full-scale aggression, thousands of volunteers from over 50 countries have stood shoulder to shoulder with Ukrainian defenders. Their courage and dedication are a critically important contribution to our shared victory.
The Ministry of Defense explains the process for joining and the current features of military service for foreign citizens under contract.
Joining the Service: Requirements and Current Mechanisms
Today, foreigners can serve in any combat brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), with no restrictions on the unit.
Military service for foreigners and stateless persons in the Defense Forces is governed by the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service,” as well as the “Regulation on Military Service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine for Foreigners and Stateless Persons,” approved by a Presidential Decree.
The main conditions for a foreigner to be accepted into military service under contract are:
- Recognition of and adherence to the Constitution and laws of Ukraine;
- Legal stay in Ukraine;
- No criminal record;
- Possession of a valid foreign passport or document certifying stateless status.
During recruitment, prior military experience, specialty, and education are taken into account. If the candidate lacks prior experience, after acceptance they are sent to training centers and military units for specialized courses to acquire the relevant military occupational specialty. Fitness for service (medical evaluation) and age (18–60 years) are also considered.
To simplify recruitment procedures, in November 2024 the Cabinet of Ministers established the Center for Recruitment of Foreigners and Stateless Persons (CRI). CRI serves as a central hub, providing logistical support, expedited background checks, and assistance in directing candidates to military units.
After applying to CRI (or directly to a unit or Territorial Recruitment Center) and successfully passing checks, a foreigner signs a 3–5 year contract with a mandatory 2-month probationary period.
Important restriction: under martial law, contract termination at one’s own request is only possible after six continuous months of service. Candidates must understand the legal consequences of signing a contract.
Foreigners Can Serve in Any Combat Brigade
Since 2022, the AFU and other Defense Forces units have involved foreigners in various ways, from forming separate military units (e.g., International Legions, the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment, the “Freedom of Russia” Legion) to integrating volunteers into effective combat brigades. Foreign volunteers have successfully completed missions in mechanized brigades, reconnaissance and special forces units, and many other key formations of the Defense Forces.
Currently, there is an evolution in how foreign servicemembers are employed. The key principle of the new model is to make the most effective use of their experience, motivation, and professional skills.
Foreign volunteers now have broader opportunities for service—including the right to choose their combat brigade, area of deployment, and type of assignment, according to their training and preferences. This ensures better integration than mandatory placement in separate international units. This model meets the challenges of war and allows foreign volunteers to participate in combat more effectively, ensuring that everyone who chooses to fight for Ukraine and freedom is fully integrated into the Ukrainian military.
Additionally, options are being considered to expand social benefits for foreign servicemembers, including state pension provision.
The Ministry of Defense is finalizing the Concept for the Recruitment and Service of Foreigners and Stateless Persons, which will formalize and improve these new mechanisms.
