Ukrainians in UK, Canada, USA to receive passports via VFS – MFA

Ukrainians in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States will soon be able to receive passports issued by Ukrainian embassies and consulates through the VFS Global network of visa and passport service centers, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said.

"Continuing to systematically modernize consular services for Ukrainians abroad, making them more convenient and accessible. This is my principled position and an instruction to the Consular Service Department of the MFA," Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said.

In cooperation with VFS Global, the MFA has completed preparations for launching a pilot project for the delivery of international passports issued by Ukrainian diplomatic missions.

In the near future, Ukrainians in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom will be able to receive their passports not only at diplomatic missions but also at 35 VFS Global service centers, without the need to travel again to embassies or consulates. This means fewer trips, fewer queues, and significantly greater convenience.

This step is particularly important amid ongoing Russian aggression, as millions of citizens are abroad and require fast and efficient services.

The security of documents and proper identification remain a priority. Passports will be issued only after a verification procedure, ensuring the protection of personal data and preventing abuse.

The MFA is implementing this project as part of the digitalization of consular services, including the development of the e-Consul system, and will continue expanding similar services.

Starting next week, the project will be launched in pilot mode – citizens applying for passports at Ukrainian diplomatic missions in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States will be able to choose the option of collecting their documents at VFS centers. Detailed information will soon be published on embassy and consulate websites.

"Going forward, we are working to ensure that Ukrainians worldwide have access to modern, convenient, and people-centered public services, wherever they are. This includes using both international passport and visa services as well as national postal services. It is about the state’s respect, maintaining connections and unity of our people, and care and protection of our citizens," Sybiha said.