How service members can replace their passports without paying an administrative fee

Service members who have lost or damaged their passports will be able to replace them without paying an administrative fee. To help them, the Office of the Military Ombudsman has proposed involving local communities.

A vicious circle for service members

During visits to military units and training centres, the Office’s team regularly encounters service members who do not have passports. Some lost theirs in combat zones, while others arrived at training centres without a document in the first place.

Without a passport, they risk losing access to their bank accounts if they need to update their personal details or have their bank cards reissued. Those who do not have a bank account at all cannot open one. As a result, they are unable to receive their military pay or pay for administrative services.

How local communities can help

The Office has already proposed exempting service members from the administrative fee. However, amending the legislation is a lengthy process, while the need for assistance is urgent.

“Local communities can help these service members right now. We have proposed that local self-government bodies pay the fee on their behalf, directly into the accounts of the Administrative Service Centres or units of the State Migration Service. This will give communities another opportunity to thank their fellow residents who are defending the country,” said Serhii Breus, Chief Specialist of the Department for Ensuring the Protection of Service Members’ Rights.

The proposal was supported by the Office of the President of Ukraine. The Cabinet of Ministers also recommended that regional military administrations, in cooperation with local communities, assist service members who are unable to pay the fee themselves.

How to receive assistance

Contact the local self-government body in your community. You can find its email address on the community’s website. Explain that you have lost or damaged your passport and need assistance to replace it.

Attach the following documents to your application:

• a certificate confirming your military service;
• the payment details for the administrative fee, obtained from an Administrative Services Centre or a unit of the State Migration Service, specifying the amount and purpose of the payment.