Children of participants in hostilities have the right to benefits: what the law provides in 2025.

Children of participants in hostilities in Ukraine have the right to a range of social benefits and guarantees stipulated by legislation. These benefits cover both education and medical and cultural spheres.

News.LIVE explains what social guarantees are in effect for children of participants in hostilities as of August 2025.

The issue of providing benefits to participants in hostilities and their relatives is regulated by the Law of Ukraine . According to the document, the children of defenders can count on certain benefits, particularly in the educational and recreational spheres.

Health and Recreation

Children (aged 7 to 18) of participants in hostilities are provided with free tickets (or with partial payment of the cost) to children's camps and sanatoria once a year.

To use the benefit, as explained on the 'Veteran' portal, it is necessary to apply to the social protection department and submit the following documents:

• a copy of the child's birth certificate;
• a copy of the document confirming the child's belonging to the privileged category;
• form №079/o 'Medical Certificate for a Child Traveling to a Health and Recreation Facility'.

Educational Benefits

Children of participants in hostilities and persons with disabilities as a result of the war may receive state support for obtaining vocational, professional, pre-higher, and higher education. In particular, this includes:

• full or partial funding of education at the expense of the state and local budgets;
• preferential loans for education;
• social scholarships – provided that the child is enrolled on a budget basis and has no academic debts;
• free textbooks and access to the internet;
• free or preferential accommodation in dormitories.

Children of participants in hostilities may also be transferred to vacant places under the state or regional order (according to priority – after the children of the deceased). These individuals are subject to transfer if their competitive score is lower than the passing score by no more than 15 points (on 25 points for specialties that receive special support, including military, pedagogical, agricultural, natural sciences, and engineering specialties).

Benefits in Schools and Kindergartens

If participants in hostilities are currently active military personnel, their children have the right to priority placement in general education and preschool institutions.

To take advantage of the benefit, it is necessary to submit an application to the head of the educational institution. The application should be accompanied by:

• a copy of the participant's identification;
• the child's birth certificate;
• medical conclusions about the child's health.

However, in kindergartens, there is a quota – no more than 20% of privileged children in a group, so it is advisable to submit the application in advance. In some cities, local budgets may also provide free meals for children of participants in hostilities in schools and kindergartens.

Previously, we wrote that Ukrainian defenders awarded the state award 'Cross of Military Merit' will receive special status. This includes monthly payments and additional state guarantees.

Also, find out how participants in hostilities can receive a free ticket to a sanatorium.

Summary: Participants in hostilities and their children have the right to social benefits and guarantees that cover educational, medical, and cultural spheres. Preschool and general education, health and recreation for children of participants in hostilities are ensured within the framework of current legislation and benefits programs. The obligation of the state is to provide support and assistance to the families of warriors according to the established norms of the law.