ukranian foreign legion
What is the International Legion?
THE INTERNATIONAL LEGION CONSISTS OF INFANTRY & SPECIAL TASK BATTALIONS
Formed by Presidential decree right after the outbreak of full-scale russian invasion, the Legion has taken part in the majority of the crucial campaigns and battles of the war. Legionnaire teams are also embedded in some of the most prominent brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Candidate requirements

  • 18-60 years of age

    These are the legal age limits set by Ukrainian legislation

  • No criminal record

    The applicants must have no history of prosecution or conviction

  • No chronic diseases

    All candidates need to pass an assessment by a medical commission

  • Physical fitness

    All candidates need to be physically capable to perform basic infantry tasks

  • Ability to legally enter Ukraine

    The Legion or the Armed Forces of Ukraine do not provide assistance with visas and travel arrangements

  • Military or relevant experience is an advantage

    Military experience is not required but would increase the chances of being accepted. Other relevant experiences might include law enforcement, paramilitary organizations, firefighting, etc.

  • Combat experience is an advantage

    Combat experience is not required but would increase the chances of being accepted. Combat experience might include paramilitary or militias.

 

4 steps to apply

  •  
    Download and fill in this form
  •  
    Scan your passport
  •  
    Scan the documents verifying your military or relevant experience (if you have them)

FAQ

After I send my application – what happens next?

We review the formal aspects of your application and if everything is OK we inform you that your application will be sent to the units. Then the units review your file and get back to us. If you were selected – you will be informed on how to contact the unit directly for a final interview with one of your future commanders or with a recruiter from the unit.

How long do I have to wait for a reply and what to do if I did not receive a reply?

Usually, we reply to your first email within 14 days. If you haven’t received a reply at all – please email us again or try reaching out on social media. After we confirm that your file has been offered to the units it takes roughly 21 days for enough units to see your file to draw a conclusion on whether your chances to be accepted are high enough. So: 14 days for the first reply, 21 days for the second. Please do not inquire about the status of your submission before that.

Do you recruit only for the Legion itself?

No, we recruit foreigners for all units under the Ground Forces Command that have international teams, squads, companies, or battalions in them. The International Legion for the Defence of Ukraine and its battalions are just the most common, most numerous unit that primarily consists of foreigners.

Should I bring anything with me? If yes – what?

You will get all the basics: uniform, weapons, body armor, helmet, boots, etc. But if you want anything fancy, specialized, or tailored to fit you personally – bring it with you. We can recommend buying top-tier lightweight combat boots, trekking socks, high-quality tourniquets, lightweight carbide or ceramic IV-level plates, red dots, and a headset or at least noise-canceling headphones. Also, bring additional mags once you know what weapons you are issued in the unit that accepted you. Make sure to check your local regulations if you are allowed to carry those items. And please do not start buying things you do not need before you are approved by a unit.

How long is the contract? Can I terminate it?

The contract is 3 years long and can be prolonged automatically. Yes, you can terminate it on your own, but not during a combat deployment.

What languages do I need to speak to be able to join the Legion?

As of right now, we only accept people who understand either English, Spanish or Ukrainian.

How do I travel to Ukraine?

You will be provided all the details on how to get to Ukraine and to which city in particular after you are accepted by the unit.

Should I just arrive in Ukraine and find the nearest recruitment center?

No, this will only add more work to us and local recruitment centers. In the end, they will simply collect your data and still send it to us, and then you will still have to wait 2 to 5 weeks for your candidacy to be reviewed. You can and should apply on your own, online, from the comfort of your home.

Do I get compensation for the tickets and other travel expenses?

We do not provide compensation for the travel expenses. Otherwise, this would be a loophole to travel to Europe for free.

Do I get paid? How much? Do I get other bonuses?

You get the standard pay of a Ukrainian soldier and it varies depending on the conditions of the service. Your payment will be in UAH currency to a local bank account. The approximate amount in USD is the following: $600 per/month behind the frontline, $1200 per/month for service in a dangerous zone, and $3300 per/month for combat deployment. Please note, that those numbers are just an approximation since exchange rates can change and also some roles and units receive additional bonuses.

Do I get compensation in the case of injury or fatality?

Yes. Injured soldiers get free medical treatment and a special payout in a case of disability. Families of the fallen soldiers receive a 15 mil UAH compensation, which loosely converts to over $400 000. The immediate family of the fallen will have to open bank accounts and submit the necessary documents in Ukraine and receive the compensation. Disabled soldiers have tiered payouts which can be found here in Ukrainian: https://shorturl.at/beiGI

Can you issue me a visa, travel document or a signed contract?

We do not issue visas or any other clauses that can be used to travel to EU or Ukraine. You have to have an opportunity to legally enter Ukraine on your own, which usually is not a problem for most people.

Do I need a visa or other documents to travel to Ukraine?

It depends on your country of origin. Please check https://visitukraine.today/ for detailed information about traveling rules that apply for your country.

Will I be considered a mercenary or a criminal if I join the Legion?

No, you will become a fully legal serviceman of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, just like all other Ukrainians and non-citizens who bravely serve. However, we highly recommend checking with your local laws about your state’s stance towards people who served in other countries’ military.

Do I need to address consulate/embassy?

No, that information is long time expired (it used to be that way in the early stages of the war). Now the best way to apply is to send us an email at [email protected]

I do not have military or combat experience. Do I stand a chance to be selected?

Yes, especially if you have any other valuable experience. Please, make sure to list most of your useful skills and proficiencies.

What roles can foreigners occupy in the Ukrainian military?

The only limit is that foreigners can not occupy officers’ positions. Other than that – all roles are open. However, some things require some knowledge of local customs and the Ukrainian language. For example, positions of clerks, lawyers, logistics officers, surgeons, etc. Usually, your exact role will be determined after the training process, but you should specify in your email application if you have any preferences.

Will I get some training?

Yes. Depending on the unit and on your skills. Some candidates are fresh from the military and can be deployed after a week or two of getting to know the command structure, the comms, etc. Others need more extensive training that can take up to 6 weeks.

Can I become a resident or a citizen of Ukraine due to my service?

Your contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine is the basis for legal long term stay in Ukraine. Your contract / military ID proves that you are on the territory of Ukraine legally. You can not obtain an additional residence permit. However, your service is a pathway to citizenship. Also, there are several legislative initiatives to streamline the process of getting citizenship for proven foreign veterans.