How to legally employ foreign workers inUkraine:a step-by-step guide for businesses
In 2025, more and more Ukrainian companies are turning to foreign labor — particularly from Asian countries — to fill critical workforce gaps.However, not every employer understands how to properly legalize the employment of foreign nationals, what documents are required, and how to avoid fines or issues with the Migration Service.In this article Rhombus Recruiting experts provide a clear, step-by-step guide on how to officially employ foreign workers in Ukraine in full compliance with national legislation.
Step 1. Define your staffing needs
Before hiring foreign workers, a company should:● determine the number of employees and specific professions needed;● outline skill requirements, work experience, and schedule;● specify accommodation and working conditions;● define whether the vacancy is long-term or seasonal.
Rhombus Recruiting assists employers in preparing a precise job brief and finding candidates who fully match business requirements.
Step 2. Obtain a work permit for a foreign employee
This is the main document that legalizes foreign employment in Ukraine.The employer, not the worker, must apply for it.
Required documents:● Application to the regional or Kyiv city Employment Center;● Copy of the foreigner’s passport;● Color photo;● Draft labor contract;● Payment receipt for the state fee.
Processing times:● Up to 7 working days for new permits;● Up to 3 working days for renewals.
After receiving the Work Permit, the employer must:● sign a labor contract with the foreign worker within 90 calendar days;● submit a certified copy of the signed contract to the Employment Center within 10 days after signing.Failure to meet these deadlines can result in permit cancellation.
Step 3. Obtain a D-04 long-term employment visa
Once the Work Permit is issued, the foreign worker applies for a D-04 visa at the Ukrainian consulate in their home country.The key supporting document is the copy of the valid Work Permit.
Visa package includes:● Completed visa application form;● Valid passport;● Recent photographs;● Proof of medical insurance;● Financial solvency (if requested);● Copy of the Ukrainian Work Permit.Rhombus Recruiting coordinates the visa process through its verified partners in Asia, ensuring smooth and timely approval.
Step 4. Arrival in Ukraine & obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP)
After arriving in Ukraine, the worker must apply to the State Migration Service (SMS) for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP).● The application must be submitted no later than 15 working days before the expiration of the worker’s legal stay in Ukraine.● The TRP is usually issued for the same term as the Work Permit (typically one year, with the possibility of renewal).Rhombus Recruiting assists with the entire legalization process — including medical insurance, registration of residence, and documentation.
Step 5. Logistics, onboarding & start of work
Once formalities are completed, Rhombus organizes:● transportation from the airport or train station;● accommodation near the workplace;● adaptation and safety orientation course;● insurance registration and HR documentation.All of this is handled end-to-end (“under one roof”), so that the employer receives a fully legal, prepared, and motivated employee.
Step 6. Document renewal & ongoing support
Before the permit’s expiration, Rhombus Recruiting tracks and reminds the employer about the renewal process:● Documents are submitted between 50 and 20 days before expiration;● After renewal, a new Temporary Residence Permit is issued accordingly.
We accompany both the employer and the worker throughout the entire employment cycle — from arrival to contract extension or repatriation.
Legal responsibility
● Employment without a valid permit — fine up to 20 minimum wages per worker;● Failure to submit the contract on time — automatic cancellation of the permit;● Illegal stay of the worker — deportation and entry ban.That’s why legal employment through Rhombus Recruiting is not just a convenience — it’s protection for your business from financial and legal risks.
How Rhombus Recruiting simplifies the process
We handle the entire process for employers:● Legal and visa documentation;● Candidate screening and verification;● Coordination with authorities;● Logistics, accommodation, and onboarding.Employers receive a fully compliant workforce — ready to start, without administrative burden or legal uncertainty.
Ukraine’s economy needs qualified and motivated workers — and businesses need predictability.Legal foreign employment is the foundation for sustainable growth and operational stability.By partnering with Rhombus Recruiting, you gain not just employees, but trusted professionals, hired transparently and lawfully.