Pension for length of service: who is eligible for early retirement starting in 2026.

According to ТСН: In Ukraine, the pension for length of service is granted only to certain categories of workers, mostly to those whose activities may lead to a decrease in working capacity. This was reported by the Pension Fund of Ukraine.

Changes in the pension reform

Starting from 2026, an important pension reform is planned in Ukraine, which will change the requirements for insurance experience for retirement. The new rules will come into effect on January 1.

Categories eligible for pension for length of service

These categories include:

• artists

• medical workers

• educators

• military personnel

• prosecutors and police workers

• aviation personnel

• professional athletes

• other specialists provided by legislation

Requirements for insurance experience

The experience required for retirement is as follows:

• for retirement at 60 years old — a minimum of 33 years of insurance experience

• for retirement at 63 years old — from 23 to 32 years of experience

• for retirement at 65 years old — from 15 to 22 years of experience

If the experience is less than 15 years, a person retiring at 65 can only receive state social assistance instead of a pension.

If a person turns 60 but lacks the necessary work experience, it can be purchased. The cost is approximately 1902 UAH for each month or 22,824 UAH per year.

Change in minimum pension

Starting from 2026, due to the increase in the minimum living wage for non-working individuals, the minimum pension in Ukraine will also increase. It will rise by 234 hryvnias to 2595 UAH.

Thus, the upcoming changes in legislation regarding pensions may significantly affect the financial security of various categories of citizens. The reform aims to modernize the pension provision system, which may become an important step towards improving the well-being of Ukrainians in the coming years.