Support for Veterans: New Social Protection Programs to Enhance Mobility and Independence
The state and local governments continue to introduce initiatives aimed at supporting war veterans, persons with war-related disabilities, and their families. In 2025, several programs are being implemented to make transportation and personal mobility more accessible.
Free Driving Lessons for Veterans
Starting in 2025, at the initiative of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, free driving lessons are available for:
- war veterans;
- their family members;
- persons with disabilities (regardless of cause) who have medical clearance to operate a vehicle.
The training is conducted using adapted vehicles within the flagship project “Barrier-Free Driving Schools.”
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted to the local veterans affairs department by place of registration or actual residence — in paper or electronic form.
Required documents:
- copy of Ukrainian passport;
- copy of taxpayer identification number;
- copy of individual rehabilitation program;
- copy of veteran or other beneficiary ID;
- copy of marriage or birth certificate (for family members);
- medical certificate confirming fitness to drive;
- color photo (3.5×4.5 cm).
After review, a tripartite agreement is concluded between the veteran (or family member), the driving school, and the organizing authority.
Compensation for Vehicle Insurance (OSAGO)
Another key initiative provides compensation for the cost of mandatory civil liability insurance (OSAGO).
The state fully covers the insurance premium for:
- combatants;
- persons with disabilities resulting from war.
Thus, the policy for these categories is completely free.
Additionally, legislation provides a permanent 50% discount on OSAGO for veterans and persons with war-related disabilities.
Eligibility conditions:
- engine capacity does not exceed 2,500 cc or, for electric vehicles, 100 kW;
- the vehicle is owned by the applicant;
- the vehicle is driven only by individuals entitled to the benefit;
- the vehicle is not used for commercial transport.
Note: if a person who received compensation is found responsible for a traffic accident during the policy term, they lose the right to compensation for the next policy year.
Compensation for Vehicle Modification
A new mechanism has been introduced to reimburse veterans with disabilities for vehicle modification costs.
- Maximum reimbursement amount — up to 70,000 UAH.
- Starting in 2026, compensation will be provided for actual, documented expenses incurred at licensed service stations specializing in vehicle adaptation.
To apply, veterans should contact local veterans affairs departments (within regional, district, or city administrations) and submit an application with supporting documents.
Support for Kyiv Veterans
In 2025, the Kyiv City State Administration approved a program to partially compensate the cost of vehicle purchase for Kyiv residents who are persons with group I or II war-related disabilities.
The compensation amount is 180 subsistence minimums for employable persons — currently 545,040 UAH.
Additionally, the Kyiv City Council approved a procedure for reimbursing vehicle modification expenses for persons with war-related disabilities (groups I and II).
- Maximum reimbursement — up to 100,000 UAH or 95% of actual expenses.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted through:
- the Kyiv Military Hub (Kyiv City Center for Comprehensive Support to Combatants, 36 Khreshchatyk St.), or
- the Kyiv Department of Social Protection.
Required documents must confirm the applicant’s status, residence in Kyiv, vehicle modification expenses, and include bank account details for the payment.
Free Parking Program for Veterans
As part of a separate city initiative, the Kyiv City Council introduced a free parking program for veterans.
War veterans, combatants, persons with war-related disabilities, and family members of fallen soldiers are entitled to use municipal parking areas free of charge.
To access the benefit, applicants must obtain a special electronic or paper parking permit issued through the Kyiv Parking Service or at local Administrative Service Centers (CNAPs).
Required documents:
- copy of veteran or disability ID;
- vehicle registration certificate;
- certificate or extract from the Kyiv territorial community registry confirming residence.
The benefit applies throughout Kyiv, including all municipal parking lots operated by Kyivtransparkservice.
If you have questions about accessing veterans’ social protection programs or disability-related benefits, you can receive a free legal consultation from the legal aid platform “PravoVsim.”
This publication has been produced as part of a project implemented by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) with funding from the European Union through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the DRC. Neither the European Commission nor the DRC can be held responsible for the content of this material.
