Strict screening and deportation for violations – Ukrainians have launched a petition calling for tougher requirements for migrant workers
The petition states that in recent years Ukraine has been actively recruiting migrant workers from countries with different cultural, legal and social norms. The authors of the document refer to the experience of EU countries, in particular France, Germany and Sweden, and argue that the absence of clear integration requirements can lead to social problems, including rising crime, the emergence of parallel legal systems and violations of women’s rights.
The petition also cites data showing that in 2024, around 6,100 work permits were issued to migrants in Ukraine, rising to 9,600 in 2025. The authors highlight the increase in these figures and the lack of public debate on the relevant decisions. Separate mention is made of a statement by the Head of the President’s Office, Kyrylo Budanov, dated 9 April 2026, regarding instructions to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Security Service of Ukraine to review the list of countries posing a migration risk.
The document asserts that, in the context of war, the issue of cultural and national unity is a component of national security.
The petitioners propose a number of demands, including:
- Mandatory signing of a declaration of compliance with the Constitution of Ukraine, Ukrainian legislation and fundamental values — gender equality, respect for local culture and laws — as a condition for obtaining a work permit.
- The introduction of compulsory integration courses in the Ukrainian language, law and culture before starting work in Ukraine.
- Transparent and strict criteria for selecting migrant workers, taking into account the level of integration risk. Not to shorten the list of countries posing a migration risk without public discussion with citizens.
- A deportation mechanism in the event of a breach of declared obligations or Ukrainian legislation.
- Public reporting on the number, origin and status of migrant workers in Ukraine.
- A ban on the creation of ethnic enclaves — compact, isolated settlements of migrants separate from Ukrainian society.
- Stricter requirements for naturalisation — a minimum period of legal residence of at least 7 years, a proven level of proficiency in the Ukrainian language, no criminal record, and a genuine assessment of the assimilation of Ukrainian values and legal norms.
- Any changes to migration policy and the conditions for obtaining citizenship must be adopted exclusively following public hearings involving Ukrainian citizens.
The document emphasises that this is not about discrimination, but about protecting national interests, preserving identity and ensuring respect for Ukraine’s laws and values.
There are 92 days left until the end of the signature collection period.
As a reminder, the Office of the President previously refused to register a petition calling for the dismissal of National Security and Defence Council Secretary Rustem Umerov.
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