Common usage blurs the distinction between work permits, work visas and labour cards. Ukrainian law does not. A Ukrainian work permit — посвідка на роботу — is a document issued by the State Employment Service to an employer, not to a worker. The worker is named on it, but is not its holder.
What the document grants
The permit authorises the named employer to engage the named foreign national in a specific named role. It does not grant entry to Ukraine, it does not grant residence, and it is not portable to a different employer without re-filing.
What it does not grant
Entry — that requires a type D long-stay visa, issued separately. Residence — that requires a Temporary Residence Permit, also issued separately. Work for any other employer — the permit is employer-specific.
How it is issued
The employer applies to the State Employment Service. Decision: 30–60 working days from a complete file. Validity: up to three years, with renewal.
How it is misused in scams
Forgeries sold to applicants directly. 'Permits' from non-existent issuing bodies (e.g. 'Ministry of Migration'). 'Permits' for inactive shell companies that cannot lawfully sponsor a foreign hire.
uavisa.pk · Legal definition · Reviewed February 2026