Ukraine has updated the rules for the guardianship of children who were evacuated abroad due to the war. From now on, they can be taken into care or guardianship not only by foster families or family-type children’s homes, but also by Ukrainian citizens who live in the country and meet the established requirements. This decision was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on the initiative of the Ministry of Social Policy.
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The changes apply to children who were in round-the-clock care facilities and were temporarily displaced outside Ukraine due to military operations. In the event of their return, priority is given to placement in a family as the primary means of ensuring a stable and safe environment.
The updated regulatory framework also provides for the possibility of transferring a child to the care of relatives abroad. Such a decision is made by the guardianship authority at the last place of residence of the candidate in Ukraine before his or her departure.
In cases where the candidate is a close relative of the child and has a family relationship with them, the requirements for completing a special parenting course may not apply. This simplifies and speeds up the process of obtaining custody, allowing children to return more quickly to their familiar environment, where they can adapt, receive care and support, and reconnect with siblings who are already being raised in families.
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