Traveling to Ukraine 2025: what foreigners should take with them

The picturesque landscapes of Ukraine continue to attract foreign tourists despite the realities of war. Find out what foreign citizens must take with them on a plane/train/car and how to plan the perfect trip to Ukraine

Take care of reliable insurance for safe entry and stay in Ukraine

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Enchanting picturesque landscapes, ancient historical monuments, multifaceted culture and hospitality of Ukrainian people attract tourists even in difficult times of war. To make your trip unforgettable and comfortable, it is important to prepare in advance the necessary items and documents that will ensure a smooth journey in Ukraine.

We will tell you what documents you need for your trip and what you should take with you on the train or plane.

What documents are required for travel to Ukraine?

Foreign citizens can enter Ukraine on the basis of a 90-day legal stay, visa or permit (temporary or permanent residence permit in Ukraine).

List of documents required for entry

– foreign passport or identity card valid for the entire period of stay in Ukraine;

– entry visa (you can check whether you need a visa for entry on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine);

– confirmation of the purpose of stay – documents confirming family ties with Ukrainians, notarised invitations from Ukrainians, invitations to work, study, etc.

– sufficient financial guarantees for the entire period of the planned stay and return to the country of origin.

After crossing the border, foreign citizens must comply with the provisions of migration legislation and contact the state authorities in advance and, if necessary, submit documents for extending the period of stay or for obtaining a residence permit.

List of documents required for boarding a train or plane

– ticket;

– original identity document;

– child's birth certificate (if there are children);

– documents related to the purpose of the trip.

What should you take with you on your trip?

The specifics of travelling by plane and train are different. Below, we explain what restrictions exist and what items you must take with you.

Luggage and hand luggage on a plane: restrictions

There are restrictions on the weight of your luggage on a plane. The permitted weight of luggage on a plane is 20-23 kg per person (according to the air ticket). Hand luggage on a plane must not exceed 5 kg per person.

Items that can be taken as hand luggage:

– passports, documents and money;

– food (dry products, as water is prohibited on board / exception: liquid food for infants);

– gadgets (mobile phones, laptops, tablets);

– medicines (tablets, drops, bandages, hydrogen peroxide solution / essential medicines can also be taken on board the aircraft, but a doctor's certificate is required for this);

– cosmetics and hygiene products (liquid or gel products in bottles or jars larger than 100 ml are strictly prohibited in hand luggage – they are only allowed in checked luggage);

– Duty Free goods.

Essential items on the train: a detailed guide

When preparing for a trip, make a list of items you need to take with you on the train and check it carefully. Think about how important each item is and whether you will need it during the trip.

Essential items on the train:

– documents (passport, tickets, child's birth certificate, medical certificate and insurance policy, documents about the purpose of the trip);

– clothes and shoes;

– hygiene products (comb, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, wet and dry wipes, hand sanitiser);

– drinks and food (it is important to take non-perishable food with you);

– tableware and cutlery (disposable plates, spoons and forks will come in handy for eating, and knives for cutting food);

– medicines;

– children's accessories (from clothing and hygiene items to toys);

– technology (mobile phone for communication, tablet for entertainment or work, laptop, e-book, charger and external battery (power bank) in case there is no power outlet).

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Ensure your safety while in Ukraine

✻ Choose reliable companies to make your travel experience enjoyable and positive. You can easily select and book plane, bus or train tickets within Ukraine and between cities in Europe and around the world with reliable carriers by following the link.

✻ Before travelling, carefully consider the available tour options — check departure dates, locations and additional services; contact a consultant to clarify all the necessary details. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can not only book tours to the pearls of cultural heritage – Kyiv or Lviv, but also help protect Ukraine – order one of the popular donation tours.

✻ When planning a trip to Ukraine, also take care of your own safety and protect yourself from unforeseen expenses. In order to feel as calm as possible and not worry about medical care, you need to take care of purchasing adequate insurance with coverage for military risks.

Reminder! We previously published a list of the most essential services for travelling to Ukraine, which you can order centrally on the Visit Ukraine website.

Photo: Freepik

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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