Rules for pensioners travelling abroad during martial law and preserving their benefits

During the period of martial law in Ukraine, the procedure for crossing the state border for citizens of pensionable age has specific features. Possession of a pension card is not an automatic pass to leave the country. The key factors remain the man's age, his military registration status, and the grounds for the appointment of benefits. Meanwhile, Ukrainians who decide to move abroad retain the right to receive a pension if they comply with the established procedures.

Who has the right to travel freely

For most men, reaching the age of 60 is critical. After this, restrictions related to the mobilisation age are lifted, and citizens can cross the border without additional permits. Women of pensionable age are also not subject to general travel restrictions, as they are not liable for military service in the same sense.

A different situation has arisen for men aged 18 to 60 who already receive a pension early. This applies, in particular, to persons with disabilities or those whose payments are appointed based on length of service. The mere fact of having a pension does not exempt such citizens from complying with military registration rules. To travel abroad, they must have a separate legal ground that allows crossing the border under martial law conditions.

Preserving pension payments abroad

Residing outside Ukraine does not lead to the automatic loss of the right to an appointed pension. Citizens can continue to receive funds into accounts at Ukrainian banks. For those who officially arrange their departure for permanent residence abroad, the possibility of receiving a pension in advance is provided — for six months in advance.

The further procedure for payments depends on the country in which the citizen resides and the presence of international agreements on pension provision. To avoid delays or problems with crediting funds, it is recommended to contact the Pension Fund of Ukraine before moving and clarify the procedure for processing the necessary documents.

Military registration and documentation after departure

Men of conscription and mobilisation age should note that even the processing of documents for permanent residence in another state does not mean automatic removal from military registration. To resolve this issue, it is necessary to follow the established procedure, taking into account the legality of crossing the border, the duration of stay outside Ukraine, and the registration with consular authorities.

Ukrainians travelling to European Union countries can ask border guards to stamp their passport with a border crossing mark. This document can serve as additional confirmation of the departure date when applying for temporary protection or social assistance.

Thus, pension status is not a universal ground for crossing the border. Before travelling, it is important to check one's military registration status, the availability of documents for departure, and the rules for receiving a pension in the country of residence.

It was previously reported that certain categories of Ukrainian pensioners, in particular those temporarily residing abroad or who have left temporarily occupied territories, must undergo physical identification by 31 December 2026. If this requirement is not met, pension payments may be suspended until identity verification. The procedure can be completed remotely via the Pension Fund portal, using video communication, or at Ukrainian diplomatic missions.