Ukraine has clarified the rules for women traveling abroad
In May 2026, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine amended the procedures for female citizens traveling abroad; however, the rules were not fully liberalized—restrictions remain in place for certain categories of women.
Under the updated regulations, female civil servants and employees of government and local self-government bodies may now freely cross the border without special permits. However, this does not apply to all categories of female citizens.
In particular, restrictions remain in place for female military personnel. They may travel abroad only for official business trips, medical treatment, or vacation—and exclusively with the approval of their commanding officers.
Border guards may also deny exit if the individual is subject to judicial or enforcement restrictions, such as due to outstanding debts or being wanted by the authorities. An invalid or expired passport is another grounds for denial.
At the same time, it is reported that women with medical training are not subject to any special restrictions on travel, although they are subject to military registration.
The rules for crossing the Ukrainian state border are regulated by Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 57.
Previously, the Ministry of Education and Science stated that there had been no mass exodus of students abroad following the change in exit rules. On the contrary, there has been steady interest in Ukrainian education and an increase in registrations for the National Multidisciplinary Test (NMT).
