Volunteer
Thousands of people from around the world have gone to Ukraine to rebuild homes, treat the wounded, deliver aid and serve alongside Ukrainian defenders. Many more help from home. This page lays out the options, what governments officially advise, and how people who choose to go prepare for the risks.
Ukraine is an active war zone. The U.S., UK, Canadian and other governments advise against travel to Ukraine, and their ability to help citizens there is limited. Missile and drone strikes reach cities far from the front line. Going is a personal decision — this page is information, not a recommendation either way.
1. Help from home
Razom for Ukraine — volunteer
Remote and U.S.-based volunteer roles: translation, advocacy, events, logistics and professional skills.
Nova Ukraine — volunteer
Volunteer teams for fundraising, translation, social media, tech and project coordination.
Often the most valuable help doesn't require travel: translation (Ukrainian, Russian, English), professional skills (medical, legal, engineering, IT) offered remotely, organizing a fundraiser for a verified organization, or supporting refugees in your own community.
2. Humanitarian work in person
Building Ukraine Together (BUR)
Ukrainian volunteer movement running rebuilding camps in de-occupied towns. Accepts international volunteers — no construction experience required.
Médecins Sans Frontières — work with MSF
Paid field positions for experienced medical, logistics and support staff.
World Central Kitchen — careers
Staff roles in emergency food response, including in Ukraine.
What to expect
- Large agencies send staff, not walk-in volunteers. UN agencies, the Red Cross and MSF hire experienced professionals. If you have medical, logistics or engineering experience, apply for a position.
- Ukrainian volunteer movements are the main route for non-professionals. Groups like BUR organize accommodation, work and safety briefings for international volunteers.
- Neighbouring countries still need help. Refugee support in Poland, Moldova and Romania is lower-risk and often short of volunteers.
- Don't arrive unannounced. Arrange your placement before you travel — unplanned volunteers can become a burden on the people they came to help.
3. Military service — the International Legion
International Legion of the Defence of Ukraine
The official unit for foreign volunteers in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Requirements, contract terms and the application process are published here — use only this official site.
Before considering service
- Use only the official Legion website. Real recruitment never charges a fee, never asks you to pay for travel or "processing," and doesn't recruit through Telegram or social-media DMs. Fake recruiters are a known scam.
- Check your own country's law. Some countries prosecute citizens for serving in a foreign military or restrict it (for example, by nationality law or foreign-enlistment statutes). U.S. law generally does not prohibit it, but it can affect security clearances and some benefits. If in doubt, ask a lawyer.
- It is a formal military contract. Service is under Ukrainian military law, with a contract term, training and the same risks Ukrainian soldiers face. Read the terms on the official site in full.
- Prior military or medical experience is strongly preferred. The Legion publishes its current requirements.
4. Official travel advice & registration
U.S. State Department — Ukraine travel advisory
Current U.S. government risk level and guidance for Americans.
STEP — Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
Register your trip with the U.S. Embassy so you receive alerts and can be located in an emergency.
UK Foreign Office — Ukraine travel advice
Detailed, frequently updated UK guidance, including on entry and safety.
Government of Canada — Ukraine travel advice
Canadian advisory with entry, safety and consular information.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine
Entry rules for foreigners and contacts for Ukrainian embassies and consulates.
5. If you decide to go — preparing for the risk
Paperwork & contacts
- Register with your embassy (STEP for U.S. citizens).
- Check Ukraine's entry rules for your passport; there are no commercial flights — entry is overland, usually via Poland.
- Leave copies of your passport, itinerary, placement contact and next of kin with someone at home, and agree regular check-in times.
- Consider a will and power of attorney before travel.
Insurance & money
- Ordinary travel insurance almost never covers war zones. Specialist high-risk policies exist — read the war and evacuation exclusions carefully.
- Military service is a separate case: ask the Legion what medical and life cover the contract provides.
- Carry some cash; power cuts can take down card terminals and ATMs.
Training & safety
- Take first aid and bleeding-control training before you go.
- Hostile-environment (HEAT) courses are used by journalists and aid workers and are worth considering.
- Install the official "Air Alert" app, learn where the nearest shelter is wherever you stay, and follow local instructions.
- Never photograph or post locations of military sites, air-defence activity or strike damage — it can endanger people and is illegal.
Mind & body
- Expect exhaustion, disrupted sleep and distressing sights. Plan rest and a support person at home.
- Returning is part of the trip — plan time to decompress and seek support if needed.
- Bring any medications you need for the full stay, plus spares.
Training before you go
Stop the Bleed
Short, widely available bleeding-control course — the single most useful skill in a conflict zone.
American Red Cross — first aid classes
First aid, CPR and AED certification in person or blended online.