According to OLX Jobs, in October 2026 the team conducted a survey of young men up to 22 years old after the government lifted exit restrictions for men aged 18−22 in August 2025. The survey records the distribution of intentions to leave and changes in sentiment compared with the previous year.
Distribution of intentions among men aged 18−22
Among respondents aged 18−22 the largest share answered that they do not plan to leave - 37%. Those who plan to leave make up 27%, while about 36% of respondents are undecided about their plans.
Looking at all respondents under 22, the share who do not plan to leave fell from 45% in 2025 to 37% in 2026. The share considering leaving rose from 23% in 2025 to 28% in 2026.
Reasons to stay and motivations for leaving
The main reason for staying in Ukraine among young men aged 18−22 was family and/or partners - 54%. Other responses: 47% mentioned plans to build a career in Ukraine, 35% cited a desire to help the country, and 41% expressed scepticism that things would be better abroad.
Among motives for leaving, the most common is the desire to be in a safer environment - 55%. Next are the wish to avoid mobilisation (47%) and career reasons abroad (40%).
Minors and the social environment of respondents
The survey showed that minors (under 18) are more likely to consider leaving: 28% plan to leave. Their main motivations are safety (55%), quality education abroad (34%) and career ambitions (32%); 30% mentioned avoiding mobilisation.
Among respondents aged 18−22, 68% have acquaintances who have gone abroad. "A year after the borders were opened for men aged 18−22, young people’s migration intentions have changed somewhat; however, it is still too early to speak of a noticeable 'shift' towards leaving. The share planning to leave has risen slightly, while a substantial portion of respondents remain undecided about their plans," commented the head of OLX Jobs, Mariia Abdullina.
The survey does not contain instructions on exit procedures or a list of documents; the source does not provide specific steps to take to arrange departure.
