Cancellation of the 72-hour requirement: how consular service rules have changed
The Government of Ukraine has introduced important changes to the procedure for men of conscription age interacting with consular institutions abroad. According to the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, new rules for checking military registration documents have come into force. The previously strict requirement, which obliged citizens to form an electronic military registration document (e-MRD) in the "Reserve+" application at least 72 hours before visiting the embassy, has been fully cancelled. Now, to receive a consular service, it is sufficient to present a document that is valid at the time of application.
New rules for working with the "Reserve+" app and e-MRD
Men aged 18 to 60 seeking consular services abroad are still required to present a valid military registration document to the consul for verification. The key change is the flexibility in the timing of e-MRD formation. There is no longer a need to plan passport or other document acquisition in advance, accounting for a three-day waiting period. If a citizen already has a formed e-MRD, they can immediately proceed with the procedure. This decision is aimed at simplifying bureaucratic procedures for Ukrainians abroad and eliminating technical barriers when planning visits to diplomatic missions.
Exceptions and new opportunities for data updates
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has reported an expansion of the functionality of consular institutions. In the near future, it will be possible to update military registration data directly through embassies and consulates for those citizens who cannot authorize in the "Reserve+" application. This is particularly relevant for citizens who do not have a tax number (RNOCKPP). They will be able to personally visit the nearest Ukrainian embassy or consulate abroad to register data through the "e-Consul" system. By the end of 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of Defense, plans to fully implement the ability to update data through consular registration.
When e-MRD is not required and grounds for refusal
Despite the simplification of rules, there are exceptions when presenting an e-MRD is not required. In particular, the document does not need to be shown when receiving consular services if the man is under 18 or over 60 years of age, as well as in cases where the service is not related to the issuance of documents requiring verification of mobilization status. However, if during the check the consul establishes that the document is invalid or the data therein does not correspond to reality, the service will be refused. This highlights the importance of data accuracy in the "Reserve+" system for all citizens of conscription age.
