Is it possible to get a visa abroad without returning to Ukraine: how does it work?

Obtaining a visa without returning to Ukraine - is it possible? We analyze all the nuances, requirements for obtaining and types of visas for Ukrainian citizens abroad. Find out how to apply for and obtain a visa in a third country without any difficulties

Get a consultation from Visit Ukraine visa lawyers to get a visa quickly and without any hassle!

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In today's environment, many Ukrainian citizens, including students, employees, or people on business trips or for other purposes in the European Union (EU) or other countries, are faced with the question: is it possible to obtain a visa for another European country without having to return to Ukraine? The answer depends on a number of factors, including your legal status in the host country and the requirements of a particular consulate. We will tell you in detail about all the nuances of obtaining a visa without returning to Ukraine in this article.

General principles of applying for a visa abroad

Under current EU rules, Ukrainian citizens can apply for visas at consulates or embassies of EU member states even when they are in another country. However, there are a number of important nuances to consider when applying.

How to get a visa in a third country without returning to Ukraine?

If you are in one of the EU countries (for example, in Poland and want to obtain a visa for Portugal), you do not have to return to Ukraine. However, you must meet a number of requirements:

Visa application in a third country (Schengen rules)

To obtain a visa to an EU country, if you are already in the EU, you need to apply to the consulate of that country in the country where you are located. Usually, consulates allow you to apply in third countries, but to apply you must:

● Have an official status of stay in that country. This can be: a valid visa (Schengen or national), a residence permit or work contract, a study visa or student permit, a long-term business trip or other legal stay.

● Confirm the purpose of the visit. It is important that the purpose of your trip meets the requirements for obtaining a visa for the chosen country (for example, a work visa for Portugal).

If you are staying in the country illegally or on a visa-free regime, it will most likely be impossible to obtain a visa at a third country consulate.

What types of visas can be obtained without returning to Ukraine?

You can apply for two types of visas:

1. Schengen visa - if you are planning a trip to a Schengen country, you can apply for a Schengen visa in the country where you are currently staying. However, it is important to note that a Schengen visa is issued by the country with which you have the most common purpose of travel (e.g., place of work or study).

2. National visa - if you want to get a visa for a long stay (for example, a work visa to Portugal), apply to the consulate of this country in your current country of residence.

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What you need to get a visa abroad: list of documents and rules

To apply for a visa in your country of residence, first of all, you need to make an appointment at the consulate. Please note that most consulates have online appointment systems that allow you to choose a convenient time and date to submit your documents.

For a visa, you need to prepare the following package of documents:

● International passport;

● Proof of residence status (e.g., a valid visa or residence permit in the country where you are currently staying);

● Documents confirming the purpose of the trip (e.g., employment contract, study invitation, etc.);

● Financial documents confirming your ability to cover the costs of the trip (e.g., bank statement, income statement);

● Health insurance for the entire period of stay;

● Biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photo (if required by the type of visa you are applying for).

● Other documents, depending on the type of visa.

Before submitting your documents, you should check the current requirements of a particular consulate, as they may differ. In addition, keep in mind that in some cases you may need to meet in person with a consular officer for an interview.

Key features of applying for a visa without returning to Ukraine: what to keep in mind

✔ Period of stay in the country: documents can only be submitted in the country where you are legally staying. If your visa or permit expires, you must first extend it.

✔ Restrictions on the type of visa: if you want to get a work visa, for example, you need to have an official invitation or an employment contract with your employer. Otherwise, your visa application may be rejected.

✔ Possible delays: sometimes consulates may require additional documents or take longer to process your application because you are not applying in your country of citizenship.

How to speed up and simplify the visa application process?

To avoid bureaucratic difficulties and increase your chances of obtaining a visa without returning to Ukraine, contact Visit Ukraine visa lawyers. Our experts will help you:

● Determine the right type of visa for the purpose of your visit;

● Understand the current legislation and requirements for obtaining a specific type of visa outside Ukraine

● Collect and prepare documents;

● Make an appointment with the consulate;

● Prepare for the interview.

They will also be able to support you in the process of applying for and obtaining a visa.

Sign up for a consultation and our specialists will help you get a visa quickly and without any hassle!

We remind you! Obtaining a work visa is a complicated process that should be carefully considered in advance. Read more about the types of work visas, how to apply, the rules of application, and the package of required documents in our previous article.

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