Key facts
- Foreign volunteers face a November 10 deadline to obtain legal residency in Ukraine.
- Approximately 16,000 foreigners from 72 countries serve in Ukraine's armed forces.
- The Ukrainian government is establishing a working group to address issues faced by foreign soldiers.
Foreign fighters who have served in Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion are encountering significant bureaucratic challenges, including issues with military contracts and obtaining legal residency. Jordan O’Brien, a New Zealander who has fought in key Ukrainian operations, described the system as lacking understanding and compassion, warning that it could deter future recruits. As of August, around 16,000 foreigners from 72 countries were serving in Ukraine's military. A law passed last year mandates that these volunteers must file paperwork by November 10 to secure temporary residence permits, a deadline that risks rendering many undocumented. The Ukrainian military ombudsman's office has received over 300 complaints this year related to combatant status, contract terminations, and medical care. Some volunteers have not received crucial documents confirming combat participation, which are necessary for veteran status. The Ukrainian government acknowledges the problem, with the defense ministry forming a working group to improve service terms and legalization processes, and the parliament considering legislation to ease these burdens.