New rules for traveling abroad for artists and media workers: what has changed in 2025?
Since the beginning of the war, the issue of crossing the border has become extremely difficult for all Ukrainian citizens liable for military service. However, certain categories of persons, in particular artists and journalists, have the opportunity to travel abroad within the framework of their professional activities.

Recently, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted new changes to the rules for traveling abroad for artists, cultural figures and media representatives. Resolution No. 244, which entered into force on March 6, 2025, significantly changes the procedure for obtaining permits, conditions for staying abroad and liability for violating established norms.

These changes are aimed at simplifying the departure process, reducing bureaucracy, but at the same time strengthening control over who leaves the country and under what conditions. Now an application for a permit must be submitted in advance, and the period of stay abroad is strictly regulated. A reporting mechanism upon return to Ukraine is also provided, which was not previously a mandatory condition.

Today we will take a detailed look at who can leave, how to obtain a permit, what documents are required, and what risks and sanctions await those who violate the rules.

Who can travel abroad under the new rules?
Previously, all applications for travel were considered by the Ministry of Culture, but now the process has changed. For each category of artists or journalists, a responsible institution has been determined:

The State Cinema is responsible for representatives of the film industry.

The State Committee for the Arts considers applications from artists, cultural figures, musicians, etc.
The State Television and Radio Company deals with issues of travel for journalists and media workers.
This means that the applicant first submits documents to the relevant body, which checks their compliance with the criteria. Only after that does the Ministry of Culture issue a letter of support necessary for crossing the border.

The new rules define two main groups of persons who can receive a permit to leave:

Employees of cultural institutions, the arts, the film industry, and the media. These can be actors, directors, musicians, journalists, cameramen, artists, photographers, TV presenters, etc.
Individual entrepreneurs who are engaged in artistic or media activities and have been officially registered for at least three years.
In addition, legal entities can apply for the departure of their employees, but only on condition that the enterprise has the status of being critically important for the country's economy.

How to obtain a permit to travel abroad for artists and media workers?
The procedure for obtaining a permit to travel abroad is now more structured, but requires a careful approach to preparing documents.

First, the application must be submitted at least 15 days before the planned date of departure. This is critically important, because any delays in processing may result in the loss of the opportunity to participate in planned events.

Secondly, the applicant must collect a certain package of documents, which includes:

Invitation from a foreign organization (it must contain official information about the event, place and date of the event, as well as the reason for the invitation).
A document confirming the applicant’s status (for example, an extract from the Unified State Register for Individual Entrepreneurs or a certificate from the place of work).
Military registration document (for those liable for military service).
An obligation to return to Ukraine within the specified time.
After submitting all documents, the relevant institution checks them. If the application is approved, the Ministry of Culture issues a letter of support, which is sent to the State Border Service.

Duration of stay abroad and conditions for extension
One of the most important innovations is the clear regulation of the duration of stay of artists and media workers abroad.

The maximum period of stay is 60 calendar days from the moment of crossing the border.

If necessary, this period can be extended for another 30 days, but only with separate approval. This applies to cases where a person participates in several international events or has force majeure circumstances.

However, an unauthorized extension of the period of stay abroad without proper permission can have serious consequences - from a ban on further trips to financial sanctions.

What risks and responsibilities are provided for?

The new legislation contains provisions regulating the responsibility of persons who have not returned to Ukraine within the specified time limits.

The main consequences of violations:

Denial of further trips.

Inclusion in the list of persons who are restricted from traveling abroad.

Fines are possible (up to 50,000 UAH).

Loss of the opportunity to work in the field of culture or media in Ukraine.
It is worth noting separately that in the event of cooperation with representatives of the aggressor state (Russia or Belarus), the permission to travel will be canceled, and the person may be subject to criminal liability.

What to do if you receive a refusal?
If you have been refused a letter of assistance or have problems passing border control, you need to act quickly.

1. Clarify the reason for the refusal with the relevant institution.
2. File an appeal or an additional package of documents.
3. If you consider the refusal illegal, seek legal support.

Olson Law Firm specializes in

on issues of mobilization and migration law and can help resolve controversial issues, appeal illegal refusals and protect your rights.

The new exit rules for artists and media workers are a logical step in regulating the procedure for temporary departure of military personnel. On the one hand, they simplify bureaucratic processes, and on the other hand, they strengthen control over the return of citizens to Ukraine.

Main conclusions:

It is necessary to submit an application in advance (at least 15 days in advance).
Strictly adhere to the terms of stay (60 days + possible extension).
In case of refusal, there is a possibility of appeal.
Violation of the rules entails a ban on further departures.
If you have any questions or need help preparing documents, contact Olson!