Ukraine is at war and under martial law, making its situation unlike that of any other country in this series. For most people, the key question is not about working in Ukraine but about the status of Ukrainians working in the EU. This guide covers both facts and plain language.

The situation is fluid, so always confirm the current position and seek advice before you act.

Ukrainians Working in the EU

The dominant reality is EU Temporary Protection, which was activated in 2022 and is now extended to 4 March 2027. It gives beneficiaries the right to reside and work across the EU, along with access to housing, healthcare and education, and around 4.4 million people held this status in early 2026. The EU has agreed on a coordinated plan to transition beneficiaries toward national residence permits for work, study, or family, or to routes such as the Blue Card and Single Permit, or to supported voluntary return. A person cannot hold temporary protection and a Blue Card at the same time, and national rules vary, so planning the next status early matters.

Working Inside Ukraine

For foreign nationals working in Ukraine, the core rules are largely unchanged despite martial law. A non-resident needs a work permit from the State Employment Service for a specific role, then a long-term D-04 visa, then a temporary residence permit, and to register their address within 30 days. Residence permits that expired during martial law are automatically extended for their duration plus 30 days. New quota and employer-responsibility rules took effect on 1 January 2026; income tax is 18% plus a 5% military levy, and wartime safety and travel considerations apply throughout.

What Workers and Employers Should Do

• If on temporary protection in the EU, plan an onward residence status before 2027.
• Check the specific national rules in the EU country concerned.
• For work inside Ukraine, follow the work permit, D-04 visa and residence steps.
• Factor in martial law, safety and travel realities, and take legal advice.

Quick Summary

1. Ukraine is at war and under martial law.
2. EU Temporary Protection for Ukrainians runs to 4 March 2027.
3. The EU is guiding a transition to national residence permits.
4. Working in Ukraine still requires a work permit, a D-04 visa, and residence steps.