A new request is appearing in some European offices, leaving Ukrainian applicants uncertain about which documents they must present.
Individual European Union countries may require Ukrainians to provide military registration documents from the “Reserve+” app when applying for temporary protection. Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed such cases and explained the reasons behind the new requirements.
Why Ukrainians Are Asked for Data from “Reserve+”
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, requests for data from “Reserve+” are sometimes made even to Ukrainian women. This practice emerged after the EU Council adopted new rules on granting temporary protection to Ukrainian citizens on July 30.
At the same time, the European Union has not yet provided member states with detailed and uniform instructions on how to apply these rules. As a result, local authorities may rely on their own interpretations and internal procedures.
When Confirmation from “Reserve+” May Be Requested
European officials generally request military registration documents when an applicant cannot confirm the legality of their departure from Ukraine in any other way.
Additional documents may be requested if the applicant’s passport does not contain a stamp confirming that they crossed the state border or other proof of legal departure.
If a person has all the necessary documents confirming their legal departure, European institutions should not require additional information from the “Reserve+” app.
Foreign Ministry Expects a Unified EU Approach
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that the current cases are temporary. Ukraine expects the EU to prepare common rules for all countries accepting Ukrainians under the temporary protection program in the near future.
Until such guidance is issued, requirements for obtaining temporary protection may vary depending on the country and the specific local institution.