10 days for background checks
According to Radio Liberty sources, the new order of exit and entry to the territories controlled by the separatists, which prescribes transport according to special permits, has been implemented on January 11.
ATO Headquarters spokesman Roman Turovets explained that special permits are required for everyone who enters and leaves the territories which are currently being controlled by pro-Russian mercenaries. At the moment, there are seven such transportation corridors.
Besides, so-called coordination grounds are active within the district departments of the MIA in Starobilsk, Debaltseve, Nova Veselivka and Mariupol, where one can apply for a permit. One can apply in person or by mail.
The ATO press center also reported how the new system of border-crossing would work.
The permit is issued if the applicant agrees to the retention of their personal data within the information-telecommunication system, as well as one of the following:
- family members living on the uncontrolled territories, their deaths or places of burial, which is confirmed by appropriate documentation issued by the Ukrainian state bodies;
- the necessity of participation in the peaceful regulation of the conflict either for humanitarian reasons, execution of diplomatic and consulate functions, including action within international organizations Ukraine is part of (exclusively with the permission of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs);
- personal immovable assets on the uncontrolled territories (for Ukrainian citizens only);
- regular trips to the controlled and uncontrolled territories dealing with professional activities of railway workers (for Ukrainian citizens only).
To get a permit, it is necessary to attack the transportation route and term of stay within the ATO zone, one’s passport (which is returned immediately) and the documents which support the reason of the trip.
Foreigners and non-residents should also attach documents which support the legal nature of their stay within the country, as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, as well as a copy of their passport or identification document with personal data and translated into Ukrainian.
Applications are denied in case fake or insufficient documents are provided, in case there is reason enough to think that the person has another goal rather than what is noted on the application, and if the person is a threat or may create a threat for national security.
Permits are issued to those over 18 years of age (personal data of minors is written into the permits belonging to their parents or legal guardians) through coordination groups within 10 days.
