How to Join the Armed Forces of Ukraine
The Command of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine informs that the only official specialized recruitment platform for foreign volunteers seeking to join Ground Forces units is:
The .mil.gov.ua domain confirms that this website is an official Ukrainian government resource hosted within the information infrastructure of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. Such a website cannot be created or operated by private individuals or commercial organizations.
All information submitted through this website—including personal data and documents uploaded by foreign volunteers when completing their application—is protected by Ukraine's state cybersecurity services. The integrity and confidentiality of this information are guaranteed by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
To protect your personal data and other sensitive information, you should apply to join the Defense Forces of Ukraine only through official websites and resources.
Step 1. Submit an Application
Complete the application form at:
Step 2. Interview
After your application has been reviewed, a recruiter will contact you and invite you to an interview.
Step 3. Arrive in Ukraine
Travel to Ukraine. At the Shehyni border crossing on the Ukrainian–Polish border, locate the recruitment point for foreign volunteers.
Step 4. Recruitment Center
A shuttle bus will transport volunteers from the border crossing to the recruitment center.
At the recruitment center, the candidate will:
- be assigned to a specific military unit;
- complete the necessary administrative procedures;
- have their military personnel file created.
Step 5. Training and Contract Signing
From the recruitment center, candidates are transported by military vehicle to the training location.
Together with instructors, candidates undergo an assessment of their:
- physical fitness;
- knowledge;
- practical skills;
- basic military competencies.
Afterward, the military contract is signed.
From the moment the contract is signed, the service member receives all benefits provided under the standards of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including:
- military pay;
- meals;
- uniform;
- equipment;
- social benefits and guarantees.
Beginning on the day the contract is signed—including throughout the training period—the service member receives military pay starting from UAH 20,200 per month.
No additional combat pay is provided during training.
The volunteer then completes Basic General Military Training (BGMT), which lasts up to two months, depending on their previous military experience and level of training.
Upon completion of the training, instructors and commanders determine the volunteer's future assignment and duties, taking into account their experience, skills, and personal preferences.
Step 6. Unit Integration and Combat Readiness
Upon arrival in the operational area, the service member undergoes additional training and combat integration with their unit.
From the first day in the combat zone, in addition to their regular military pay, the volunteer receives additional compensation starting from UAH 30,000, calculated proportionally based on the number of days spent in the operational area.
Step 7. Combat Missions
After completing all required training, the service member is ready to carry out combat missions.
For participation in combat operations, service members receive additional combat pay starting from UAH 100,000 per month, calculated proportionally according to the number of days spent performing combat missions.
In addition, for every cumulative 30 days served on the front line, service members receive an additional bonus starting from UAH 70,000.
Service Respected Around the World
Military service in any of the Ground Forces units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is highly respected by military, law enforcement, and security organizations around the world.
Many foreign volunteers choose to remain in Ukraine after victory over the Russian invaders. However, wherever a veteran chooses to live after completing their contract, they will always carry with them the brotherhood of the free world's bravest people, unique combat experience, and the reputation earned through service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. These become a lifelong source of respect in peacetime and a network of support through every stage of life.
Respectfully,
Command of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
