How to Verify a Ukrainian Company

Verifying a business partner in Ukraine requires understanding the state registry system and navigating the access restrictions put in place during martial law.

What This Guide Helps You Check

• The legal existence of a Ukrainian entity.
• The company’s registered address and authorized director.
• How to use the EDRPOU code for due diligence.

What Public Information Cannot Establish

• Wartime Operational Capacity: A company may be legally active but physically displaced or non-operational due to the conflict.
• Logistical Feasibility: The registry does not indicate whether the company can successfully export goods under current border conditions.

The EDRPOU Code

The cornerstone of Ukrainian business verification is the EDRPOU code (ЄДРПОУ). This is a unique 8-digit identification number assigned to every legal entity. Action: Always ask your Ukrainian counterparty for their EDRPOU code. Company names can be translated inconsistently into English, but the 8-digit code never changes.

Step-by-Step Verification Process

1. Request Company Details

Ask for the company’s full legal name in Ukrainian and their 8-digit EDRPOU code.

2. Check the Unified State Register (USR)

The official government database is the Unified State Register managed by the Ministry of Justice. Searching the EDRPOU code here will confirm if the company is registered, active, or in the process of liquidation.

3. Use Aggregator Platforms

Because the official government registry UI can be difficult for foreigners to navigate, many businesses rely on reputable third-party intelligence platforms like Opendatabot or YouControl. These platforms aggregate state registry data, court records, and tax debt information into easily readable dossiers.

Red Flags

• The company refuses to provide an EDRPOU code.
• The authorized director listed in the registry does not match the person signing your contract.
• The company has a status of “in the process of termination” in the registry.

Important Limitations (Time-Sensitive)

Martial Law Restrictions: Access to the official Unified State Register fluctuates. The Ukrainian government occasionally restricts public access to protect sensitive data during the war. You may be required to solve CAPTCHAs, use a VPN if geo-blocked, or possess a Ukrainian Electronic Digital Signature (KEP/EDS) for deep searches.

When Local Assistance May Be Useful

Because of the digital barriers and the necessity to understand Ukrainian legal structures, complex due diligence should be handled by a licensed Ukrainian lawyer. If you simply need basic on-the-ground communication or document coordination in Kyiv or Lviv, independent professionals can assist. See our contact information.