Is It Necessary to Undergo Military Medical Examination if You Have a Reserve Status in Ukraine? A Comprehensive Overview
In Ukraine, ongoing emergency measures related to the military aggression from Russia include the declaration of general mobilization and the introduction of martial law.
One of the most pressing issues for men aged 18 to 25 is whether they are obliged to pass a military medical examination (VLC) if they have already obtained a military reservation or deferred entry.
According to expert lawyer Kateryna Anishchenko from Riyako&partners law firm, the current situation leads to many questions and uncertainties.
Many reservists and conscripts are trying to clarify whether passing the VLC is mandatory when they already have a reservation or a deferment.
They are also interested in whether possessing a reservation exempts them from medical examinations during the mobilization process.
Analysts and legal professionals state that the practice now allows individuals with reservations or deferments to avoid VLC, but exceptions exist.
Specifically, those who already have a reservation do not need to undergo medical examination.
However, Kateryna Anishchenko emphasizes that, in most cases, passing the VLC remains a crucial part of the mobilization or deferment procedures.
She added that conscripts—men between 18 and 25 who have not completed military service, military academies, or have not been recognized as reservists—are not directed for medical exams.
The VLC for conscripts is conducted only voluntarily and upon enlistment.
The issuance of duplicate registration certificates occurs without medical examination, but during initial registration, they do undergo the VLC.
Men under 25 who have completed general military training or basic service are not subject to mobilization or directed to VLC.
Reservists who have submitted a deferment application are only examined during the review period (seven days) and throughout the duration of their deferment.
Those with deferments based on reservations from employers and decisions made by the Ministry of Economy also qualify.
Additionally, persons removed from the register due to age limit, health conditions, or a sentence for serious or especially serious crimes are exempt.
The law also provides opportunities for reservists to challenge VLC decisions and appeal if their status was determined unlawfully or with procedural violations.