In Ukraine, starting January 31, 2026, the procedure for admission to economic activity in veterinary practice will change: the possibility of working on a declarative basis will be abolished, and mandatory licensing will be introduced, according to the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection.
“From January 31, 2026, it will no longer be possible to obtain a license to engage in veterinary practice by submitting a declaration. From now on, all entities engaged in veterinary practice must obtain a license,” the agency commented on the annex to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 314.
Business entities that previously started operating under a simplified procedure based on a declaration must undergo the licensing process within three months. The deadline for submitting documents to the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection is April 30, 2026.
There are two main ways for entities that already report or plan to submit documents. According to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 795, documents can be submitted electronically through the “Dія” portal as part of a pilot project to introduce a unified state electronic system for permits. It is also still possible to submit an application in paper form in accordance with the licensing conditions approved by Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 896.
The State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection has drawn the attention of businesses to the need for strict compliance of the material and technical base and staff qualifications with established standards. The transition to a licensing model involves a thorough check of documents confirming the relevant education of employees and the condition of the premises.
The updated rules are aimed at adapting the veterinary sector to European Union standards and ensuring the stable functioning of the veterinary services market under martial law. Working without a license after the transition period ends on April 30 will be considered illegal.
