Mobilisation requirements and fines for violations of military registration in Ukraine

Current conscription rules and citizen categories

The Kharkiv Regional Territorial Centre for Recruitment and Social Support (TCRS) emphasised the importance of knowing one's obligations during martial law. The primary criteria for conscription are age and health status. As a general rule, mobilisation applies to men aged 25 to 60 who are deemed fit for service and do not have legal grounds for deferment or protection.

However, the legislation provides for exceptions. Men aged 18 to 25 may be conscripted if they are reserve officers or have previously completed conscript service. For other members of this age group, as well as for women on the military register, enlistment is voluntary.

Obligations enshrined in legislation

Article 65 of the Constitution of Ukraine establishes the duty of every citizen to defend the independence and territorial integrity of the state. Implementing this principle requires compliance with specific military registration procedures.

Liable persons are obliged to:

• appear at the territorial recruitment centres upon summons in the established order;
• comply with the lawful demands of authorised officials;
• timely update personal data at the TCRS or via the electronic cabinet.

In addition, citizens must carry a military registration document (in paper or electronic form) and present it upon request in cases provided for by law. Failure to comply with these rules may result in administrative liability.

Financial and criminal sanctions

Specific fine amounts are established for violations of military registration rules. For ordinary citizens, the sanction ranges from 17,000 to 25,500 hryvnia. Corporate officials bear greater responsibility: their fines range from 34,000 to 59,500 hryvnia.

The most severe consequences are provided for evading conscription during mobilisation. Under Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, such an act is classified as a crime and is punishable by imprisonment for a term of three to five years.

Information sources and procedure of action

The TCRS advises using official sources to obtain current data on mobilisation procedures, deferment processing, and registration rules. Those wishing to voluntarily enlist on a contract basis are advised to contact the territorial centre directly. There, they will be provided with information on service directions, selection conditions, and the list of required documents.

When determining a candidate's position, their health status, professional training, and the current needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are taken into account. TCRS representatives emphasise the need to update data in a timely manner and comply with all lawful requirements.

It was also noted that a summons to the TCRS may be delivered not only in person but also by registered letter. Refusal to receive correspondence or the absence of the addressee does not exempt one from the obligation to appear if notification procedures were observed. The legality of the imposed fine depends on the correct execution of these procedures.