Higher education institutions unlawfully demand paper military documents: what students should do.

03.10.2025 839

03.10.2025 839

Higher education institutions unlawfully demand paper military documents: what students should do

According to inkorr.com: The administrations of higher education institutions cannot require students to provide only paper military registration documents (VRD) to obtain a deferral from mobilization, as electronic versions have the same legal force. This was reported by lawyer Vladyslav Deriy on the portal '

Lawyers.UA

Problems with the requirements of higher education institutions

Young men who are trying to obtain a

deferral for studies

often face bureaucratic difficulties. For example, the university administration insists on a paper military ticket, ignoring the electronic document from 'Reserve+'. The lawyer emphasizes that such a requirement is illegal and cannot be a basis for expulsion.

'The requirement to provide a paper VRD is not supported by anything, and they have no right to expel you', - noted Deriy in his consultation.

Algorithm for obtaining a deferral for students

To avoid conflicts, Deriy offers several simple steps:

print the electronic VRD from the 'Reserve+' application;
submit it to the college or university administration.

This is based on paragraph 9 of the Cabinet Resolution No. 559: 'The military registration document in electronic form (including printed) and

the military registration document in paper form

have equal legal force'.

Educational institutions are required to keep lists of personal military registration, in which column 9 explicitly states the possibility of providing an electronic VRD. If the administration ignores this, the student has the right to appeal the decision at the rectorate or consult a lawyer. A refusal will not affect the possibility of obtaining a deferral.

It is also worth noting that bill No. 13634-1 limits the ability to obtain a deferral for individuals over 25 years old in vocational education. To qualify, one must have started studying before the age of 25, study full-time, and gradually improve qualifications. A deferral for obtaining a second degree is only valid when transitioning to a higher level, for example, from bachelor's to master's.

Rules regarding deferral from mobilization for students remain relevant and important in the context of the military situation in the country. Understanding one's rights and opportunities will help students avoid problems and adapt more easily to new conditions. Monitoring changes in legislation also remains important for everyone studying and planning to continue their education in Ukraine.