After lengthy discussions, digitally apostilled certificates of no criminal record are becoming available in Ukraine through the “Diia” service. This was reported by the publication RBC-Ukraine.
The problem with electronic apostilling of Criminal Record Certificates in Ukraine
Ukraine faced an administrative conflict regarding electronic criminal record certificates. The issuance of electronic certificates was practically meaningless due to the lack of a mechanism for their apostille certification.
As early as 2015, the Ministry of Justice announced the launch of an electronic apostille service in Ukraine. Starting from January 1, 2023, in accordance with the resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated May 27, 2022, No. 631, the authority to apostille documents issued by law enforcement agencies (including criminal record certificates) was transferred to the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
However, according to its regulations, the Ministry of Internal Affairs did not issue electronic apostilles. Therefore, while issuing electronic certificates, the Ministry could not certify them with an apostille. Due to this conflict, individuals who needed to use criminal record certificates abroad were forced to obtain paper certificates offline and subsequently have them apostilled with the traditional stamp.
The solution to this problem is provided by the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 853 dated July 25, 2024. The new procedure of electronic apostilization applies to all central executive authorities, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs. However, the problem has not been solved until recently.
How to obtain an apostilled Certificate of No Criminal Record in Ukraine
Certificates of no criminal record are now available through the digital administrative services portal “Diia.” Electronic apostilles can be affixed to these certificates immediately.
The project is being implemented jointly by the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. According to RBC-Ukraine, this innovation is especially relevant for those applying for visas or planning to work or study abroad.
To participate in the beta testing of the new service, the following are required:
- Verified RNOKPP (tax identification number);
- Internal or foreign passport registered in Diia;
- Registered place of residence.
The apostilled certificate will be sent to the applicant’s email.
Registration for participation in the beta test is available on the Diia portal. Using this service will free citizens from queues and additional financial costs.
What is an apostille?
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