Ukraine has allowed men aged 18–22 to travel abroad, but some of them are still being denied border crossing. The restrictions apply to those who hold positions where travel is only possible on official business trips.
These are people who work in certain government or administrative positions, where official duties require travel abroad only as part of an official business trip, not for personal or private needs. For example:
employees of government bodies and ministries;
employees of local self-government bodies in relevant positions;
certain officials who are in public service and have restrictions on independent travel.
A resolution by the Cabinet of Ministers dated August 26 allows men aged 18–22 to cross the border during martial law. For this, a foreign passport and a military registration document are required, which must be presented upon request by border guards. The exception is civil servants, officials, and local officials: they can only travel on official business trips.
The purpose of the decision is to "keep young Ukrainians for the country" and give them the opportunity to study, intern, and work abroad without breaking the law. The authorities emphasize: this does not mean lowering the mobilization age, which currently remains 18+.
However, experts and activists note potential risks. Some believe that young people might leave permanently, which would negatively affect the demographic situation and the country's defense capabilities. Military personnel and analysts warn that by allowing travel, the authorities create a risk of a future shortage of soldiers. Sociological surveys show that one in five young people would like to go abroad for permanent residence.
Despite criticism, the border guard service assures that mass departures have not been observed yet. Passenger traffic has remained stable – about 127,000 citizens cross the border daily in both directions. Most of them return to Ukraine, and the queues at border crossings are related to the summer tourist season, not the adopted resolution.
President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizes that the decision will help young people get education and experience abroad while keeping them connected to Ukraine, which in the long run should contribute to the country's development.
