This material was prepared by the NGO “Union of Relatives of Kremlin Political Prisoners” as part of a legal consultation series for individuals who have survived unlawful imprisonment.

The following step-by-step guide is designed for civilians who were unlawfully deprived of liberty during the occupation and later released independently — without undergoing an “exchange procedure” or being officially recognized as having such status. It will help you gather the necessary documents, complete your application, and submit it to the Commission on the Establishment of the Fact of Deprivation of Liberty, which operates under the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine.

STEP 1. Where to find the application form
You can find it at:

• Assistance centers for rescued individuals
• Social protection offices
• The official website of the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development
• The “Legal Aid” section of relativespp.org

📄 Sample form: available via this link
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the form in advance. It’s also helpful to read the law “On social and legal protection of persons…”: https://zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/2010-20#Text

STEP 2. Prepare the information for the application
Include:

• Dates of detention and release (even if approximate)
• Place, circumstances, and individuals involved in the detention
• Details of your captivity (location, conditions, violence, etc.)
• How you were released and whether you have proof

Write in chronological order, without emotional language, and clearly.

STEP 3. Gather supporting evidence

• Official replies — request from the Coordination Headquarters, police, Ombudsman, or National Information Bureau
• Media — screenshots from Telegram, social media, or media coverage
• Documents — IDs, publications, awards, or proof of family ties
• Witness statements — written or contacts of eyewitnesses
• Documents from occupation authorities — if any remain

Send all materials by registered mail or email. Keep copies of everything.

STEP 4. Fill in the application
Use the official template: https://zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/z0177-25#Text
Describe events in detail and attach a list of documents. Avoid inappropriate or offensive language.

STEP 5. Submit your application
Send it by registered mail or deliver in person. Keep a copy with proof of receipt.
The completed and signed application with all attachments should be submitted to:

Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine
Address: 14 Beresteiskyi Avenue, Kyiv, 01135
Email: miu@mtu.gov.ua

Alternatively, you may apply online via the ministry’s website.

STEP 6. Track the review process
⌛ Review of your application may take over a month.
For inquiries, contact the Department for Internally Displaced Persons and Persons Affected by Armed Aggression. Current contact details are available on the ministry’s website:
https://mindev.gov.ua/pro-nas/struktura-derzhavnoho-orhanu/departament-VPO-ta-osib-poterpilykh-vnaslidok-zbroinoi-ahresii

🤝 This publication was prepared as part of the “Capable and Strong” program implemented by the East Europe Foundation with the support of Switzerland.

📷 Photo: Peter Steiner

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