A step-by-step guide for Ukrainian businesses: from candidate selection to D-03 work visa processing. Real timelines, costs, and pitfalls.
Key Takeaways
- The entire hiring process takes 2-3 months from start to the first worker's arrival
- The cost of hiring one worker is $1,050-1,600, including visa and airfare
- Key advantage in 2026: immunity to mobilization and contract stability
- Mandatory video skills verification (Trade Test) before departure
In 2026, the labor shortage in Ukraine has become the primary challenge for the manufacturing sector. Traditional hiring methods no longer guarantee stability: people leave within a week, and mobilization risks make long-term planning impossible.
Hiring personnel from India is not just about "filling vacancies"; it is a strategic decision for the continuity of your business.
Why India? The 2026 Context
India remains the world's largest donor of skilled labor. For a Ukrainian employer today, this translates into three critical advantages:
- Immunity to Mobilization: Legally employed foreign nationals are not subject to military conscription. You build a "ironclad" team that won't disappear tomorrow.
- Contractual Discipline: Workers arrive on a D-03 visa tied specifically to your company. Staff turnover drops from 30% to less than 2% per year.
- Qualification (Hard Skills): India has specialized Training Centers where welders, seamstresses, and carpenters undergo certification according to international standards.
Hiring Stages: From Application to the First Shift
1. Profiling and Selection (2-3 weeks)
We don't just find "people"; we find specialists tailored to your specific machinery and tasks.
- Trade Test: We organize video recordings of candidates performing your test task (e.g., welding a seam or assembling a furniture frame).
- Verification: We check prior experience in Gulf countries (UAE, Qatar), which is a hallmark of high quality and international standards.
2. Legal Block: Permits and Visas (1.5 - 2 months)
This is the most critical stage, where Asia Work handles all the bureaucracy:
- Work Permit Acquisition: Filing documents with the Employment Center in Ukraine.
- Document Certification: Apostille and translation of the candidate's diplomas and certificates.
- Embassy Submission: Obtaining the Type D (Work) Visa.
3. Logistics and Adaptation (1 week)
We organize the flight route "Delhi/Mumbai — Warsaw — Kyiv/Your City" and escort workers directly to your facility.
Hiring Economics: What Does It Actually Cost?
Below is a breakdown of the "turnkey" investment per worker:
| Expense Item | Cost (USD) | Comment | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Recruitment & Trade Test | $400 - $550 | Sourcing, vetting, video tests | | State Fees (Ukraine) | $150 - $200 | Work permit, insurance | | Visa Support & Airfare | $500 - $850 | Depends on the airline and urgency | | TOTAL | $1,050 - $1,600 | Payback within 3-4 months of stable work |
Asia Work Tip: We recommend budgeting for housing (dormitory) and a basic set of kitchenware/bedding. This is critical for rapid adaptation.
TOP 3 Employer Fears (And How We Address Them)
1. "They don't know the language"
Reality: 90% of our candidates speak basic English. For large groups (10+ people), we recommend hiring one "foreman" with stronger language skills to coordinate work. We also provide technical term glossaries.
2. "They will run away to Europe"
Reality: The D-03 visa and work permit are issued for a specific enterprise. The worker does not have the legal right to work for another company or country. Losing their legal status means deportation and a ban on re-entry.
3. "Different work culture"
Reality: Indian workers are highly religious and family-oriented. They come to earn money for their families, demonstrating high discipline and zero tolerance for alcohol on the job.
Conclusion: Is Your Business Ready to Scale?
Hiring in India is not a "quick fix" but a foundation for growth in 2026. While competitors struggle to find local staff who might leave tomorrow, you gain a team committed to working with you for the next 2 years.
Want to see video tests of welders or seamstresses ready for departure? Leave a request for a consultation — we will show you real cases from Ukrainian factories.
FAQ: Quick Hits
What is the average salary? For general labor — from $600-700 + housing. Skilled masters (TIG/MIG welders) — $800-1,000.
Who pays for the airfare? Usually the employer, but the amount can be structured as an advance deducted from initial salaries (optional).
Can a worker be replaced? Yes, our contract includes a free replacement guarantee if a worker fails their 30-day probation period.