Thousands of Ukrainians will need to replace their passports throughout 2026, as certain documents reach the validity limit established by the country’s legislation. The measure mainly affects holders of passports for travel abroad issued before the adoption of the biometric model, as well as users of internal identity cards with a ten-year term. Autoridades recommend paying attention to deadlines to avoid complications with travel or administrative services.

Serviço Estadual of Migração of Ucrânia maintains clear rules about the length of documents. Durante the period of martial law, some extensions were applied to internal passports, but documents for abroad follow the original issuance deadlines. The transition to biometric models continues to be encouraged by the government.

Experts highlight that early replacement facilitates access to visa-free international travel to União Europeia countries. Failure to renew may result in restrictions on borders or consular services.

Types of passports issued in Ucrânia

Ucrânia uses two main formats for identification and travel documents. The internal passport in the traditional format, known as a “little book” and issued since 1994, is valid indefinitely in most cases. However, upon reaching 25 or 45 years of age, the holder must paste a new photo, although this obligation was relaxed during the armed conflict.

The electronic identity card, or ID-card, introduced gradually, contains a chip with biometric data. Esse model progressively replaces the old format in new issues. The ID-card is mandatory for first documents aged 14 and over.

• Booklet passport: unlimited validity, with occasional photo updates.
• ID-card: includes fingerprints and electronic signature for digital services.
• Foreign passport: divided into non-biometric (old) and biometric (current).

Validity of internal documents and exceptions

The ID card represents the current standard for identification within Ukrainian territory. Para citizens between 14 and 18 years old, the document is valid for four years, coinciding with the period up to the age of majority. Após the age of 18, the validity extends for ten years, except for those who reach 65 years of age, when it becomes permanent.

A resolution of Conselho of Ministros automatically extended expired ID cards during the period of martial law. Essa measure covers documents expired since January 2022 and remains valid for 30 days after the end of the special regime. Titulares of passport booklets can also update photos within the same post-conflict period.

Non-biometric foreign passports reach deadline

Passports for international travel without a biometric chip have stopped being issued since December 2016. Documentos issued up to that date remain valid for ten years for people over 16 years old. Assim, many issued at the end of 2016 expire precisely throughout 2026, requiring mandatory replacement.

After expiration, only biometric templates are available. Esses new passports allow visa-free entry into União Europeia countries for up to 90 days. The absence of a chip requires the request for traditional visas for several destinations.

Current rules for minors and biometrics

Children and teenagers receive biometric foreign passports valid for four years until they turn 16. From that age onwards, the document is valid for ten years. Issuance can occur from birth, facilitating family travel.

The Ukrainian government encourages the adoption of biometric format for greater security and international practicality. Consulados abroad also process renewals within established deadlines.

Replacement procedures in 2026

Renewal takes place at Serviço and Migração units or authorized administrative centers. In 2026, administrative costs were adjusted, with values ​​varying according to urgency. The standard process takes up to 20 business days, while expedited options reduce this to seven days for specific categories.

Required documents include completed form, recent photos and proof of payment. Menores must be accompanied by legal guardians.

• Booking in advance online avoids long queues.
• Payment of fees occurs via banks or terminals.
• Delivery of the new document requires personal presence for verification.

Impact of martial law on validity

The martial law regime does not change the deadlines for foreign passports, which follow the original date of issue. Para internal, the automatic extension remains in force until further government determination. Especialistas advise individual verification of the expiration date printed on the document.

Ukrainian consulates abroad maintain biometric issuance services. The average term reaches three months due to accumulated demand.

Advantages of the updated biometric model

The passport with a chip offers easy access to European countries without the need for a prior visa. Dados fingerprints protect against counterfeiting and speed up border controls. Integrated electronic signature enables online government services.

Thousands of Ukrainians have already switched to the modern format in recent years. The trend accelerates with expirations scheduled for 2026.

Final Planning Guidelines

Authorities recommend starting the replacement process six to nine months in advance. Verificação of the expiration date avoids surprises on planned trips. Centros of service expanded capacity to meet expected volume in 2026.

The upgrade maintains full international mobility rights. Cidadãos must consult official channels for updated information on fees and deadlines.