Special Rules for Minors

A unique aspect of Ukrainian law involves minors. If one party is a minor (under 18), the written consent of their parents or guardians, certified by a notary, is required to sign a marriage contract . This is particularly relevant given ongoing legislative discussions about lowering the marriage age under certain circumstances .

What Can a Marriage Contract Regulate?

Unlike prenups in some other countries that cover personal conduct, Ukrainian marriage contracts are strictly limited to property relations . They cannot dictate personal or child-rearing matters.

A marriage contract CAN regulate:

Category	Specific Provisions
Property Regime	Determine joint, separate, or partial ownership of assets acquired before or during the marriage .
Future Property	Specify that property purchased in one spouse’s name remains their personal property .
Financial Obligations	Define the procedure for contributing to the family budget, utility bills, and repaying debts .
Spousal Support	Establish obligations for financial support (alimony) for a spouse during marriage or after divorce .
Child Support	Agree on a fixed monthly amount for child support or percentages of income .
Asset Usage	Determine the right to use residential property, vehicles, or bank accounts .

A marriage contract CANNOT regulate:

• Personal non-property relations: Fidelity, household chores, religion, or where to spend holidays .
• Child custody and upbringing: Determining which parent the child lives with or visitation schedules is strictly the domain of the court based on the child’s best interests .
• Rights violations: The agreement cannot put one spouse in an “extremely unfavorable” financial position (e.g., leaving them with nothing) .