A D-type visa, or long-term visa, is intended for foreigners and stateless persons, granting them the right to stay in Ukraine for up to 90 days within every 180-day period, with the possibility of obtaining a residence permit. This type of visa is essential for individuals planning to work, study, conduct business, or reunite with family in Ukraine. Below are the main types of D visas:
1. Work Visa (Employment)
This visa is suitable for foreigners who have signed an employment contract with a Ukrainian employer. A work permit issued by the State Employment Service of Ukraine is required for its issuance.
2. Student Visa
Students admitted to Ukrainian educational institutions apply for a D visa to obtain a residence permit. The key documents include an invitation from the university and proof of tuition payment.
3. Family Visa (Family Reunification)
This category is designed for individuals whose family members are Ukrainian citizens or have a residence permit. Supporting documents include marriage certificates, birth certificates of children, or other proof of family ties.
4. Business Visa
Foreigners intending to engage in entrepreneurial activities in Ukraine can apply for a business visa. The basis for issuance is the registration of a company or a representative office of a foreign firm.
5. Religious Activity Visa
Missionaries, clergy, and other individuals involved in religious activities in Ukraine are granted a special D visa. The basis for issuance is an invitation from a registered religious organization.
6. Cultural or Sports Visa
Foreigners participating in cultural, scientific, or sports events receive a D visa issued on the basis of an invitation from the Ukrainian side.
7. Volunteer Visa
Foreigners participating in volunteer programs in Ukraine can obtain a D visa. The basis is an agreement with a Ukrainian organization registered as a volunteer entity.
8. Scientific or Research Visa
This type of visa is available for scientists and researchers cooperating with Ukrainian institutions. Confirmation of cooperation and an invitation from the host institution are required.
Official Classification of D Visas:
- D-01 – for immigration purposes;
- D-02 – family reunification with a person recognized as a refugee in Ukraine, a person requiring additional protection, or someone granted temporary protection in Ukraine;
- D-03 – diplomatic/service visa (for accreditation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs);
- D-04 – employment;
- D-05 – international technical assistance;
- D-06 – religious activities;
- D-07 – participation in the activities of branches, departments, representative offices, and other structural units of foreign non-governmental organizations;
- D-08 – employment in a representative office of a foreign business entity in Ukraine;
- D-09 – employment in a representative office of a foreign bank;
- D-10 – cultural, educational, scientific, sports, or volunteer activities. This type requires an invitation from a Ukrainian state authority or an invitation from an organization registered with the National Social Service of Ukraine (NSSU) that engages in such activities;
- D-11 – employment as a correspondent or representative of foreign mass media;
- D-12 – founder or participant (beneficial owner) of a legal entity;
- D-13 – for study purposes;
- D-14 – family reunification with a Ukrainian citizen (based on marriage);
- D-15 – family reunification with individuals holding a residence permit in Ukraine;
- D-16 – other purposes under international agreements of Ukraine.
Features of the D Visa Application Process
- Mandatory documents: confirmation of purpose of stay, an invitation from the Ukrainian side, and financial guarantees.
- Submission location: visa applications are submitted to Ukrainian consulates abroad.
- Extension possibility: after entering the country, D visa holders can apply for a residence permit to ensure legal long-term stay.
The D visa serves as a gateway to long-term residence in Ukraine. Given the variety of categories, each foreign citizen can choose the most suitable visa for their intended purpose.