Do I need additional car insurance in Ukraine? What’s covered and what’s not

If you are planning to travel around Ukraine in your own car, it is worth finding out in advance how car insurance works in the country and what risks it covers. This is especially important now, when military action creates additional threats and standard policies do not always guarantee financial protection. Learn more about compulsory and voluntary types of car insurance in Ukraine, the features of Mini Hull and medical policies with military coverage

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When travelling around Ukraine in their own cars, foreigners often wonder whether it is enough to have only compulsory insurance or whether it is worth purchasing additional coverage. The situation is complicated by the state of war, which brings new risks that are not covered by standard insurance policies.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at what is mandatory for motorists in Ukraine, what risks are not covered by standard insurance, and when it is worth considering taking out Mini Hull insurance or additional medical insurance.

Is it safe to drive in Ukraine during the war — read here.

Detailed information that will be useful when planning a trip to Ukraine can be found here:

– Travel to Ukraine for tourism purposes.

– Employment in Ukraine.

– Immigration to Ukraine.

– Studying in Ukraine.

– Travelling to Ukraine by car.

– Popular destinations in Ukraine.

– Support for Ukraine.

Do I need car insurance in Ukraine?

Compulsory civil liability insurance (OSCPV) is mandatory in Ukraine. It applies only to cars registered in Ukraine and is intended to compensate for damage caused to the life, health and property of third parties in the event of a traffic accident. This means that if you are responsible for an accident, your insurance company will cover the damages to the injured party, but will not compensate you for damage to your own car.

If you are entering Ukraine in a car registered abroad, you must have a valid Green Card. This is an international insurance document that confirms your civil liability. Without it, you will simply not be allowed to cross the border.

Foreign car insurance policies are recognised in Ukraine, but it is important to remember that a Green Card or any foreign insurance only covers damage to third parties. This means that if your car is damaged, you will have to repair it at your own expense. This often comes as a surprise to foreign drivers and is the main reason why you should consider additional insurance, such as Mini Hull insurance.

Research on Ukraine by car in 2025: what to expect on the road — we tell you here.

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Ukraine car insurance coverage: what does standard car insurance cover?

Standard car insurance in Ukraine (OSCP) or the international Green Card is limited to liability towards other people.

This means that if you are at fault in an accident, the policy will cover the costs of treating the victims and compensation for damage to other people's property.

Therefore, the following are not covered:

– Your own car (repair or restoration);

– Damage caused by natural disasters (storms, floods, fires);

– Damage or destruction of the car during shelling, explosion, falling debris, etc.

In practice, this means that even in the event of a minor accident or accidental damage, your car will not be financially protected.

Read also: Entering Ukraine during the war: safety rules, insurance and useful information for foreigners.

Why basic Ukrainian car insurance for foreigners is not enough: real-life examples

In a state of martial law, the risks have become significantly greater. There are often situations when a car is damaged by rocket debris, a drone, a shell, or suffers during a natural disaster. Basic insurance will not help in such cases.

For example:

– During an air raid, a drone fragment fell near your parking lot and broke the windscreen and roof of your car.

– You caused a minor accident and your car was seriously damaged.

– Strong winds knocked a tree onto your car.

In all these cases, the cost of repairing the damage will be borne by you. That is why more and more foreigners travelling in Ukraine are choosing additional Mini Hull insurance.

Can you travel around Ukraine in a rented car? We explain here.

What is Mini Hull insurance for driving in Ukraine and why you might need it?

Mini Hull is a voluntary type of insurance that provides protection specifically for your car. It is not comprehensive insurance, but it is much cheaper.

Its main purpose is to give the driver confidence that even if the car is damaged, you will receive compensation without spending your own money.

Depending on the package you choose, Mini Hull insurance covers:

– Damage to the car in an accident (even if you were at fault).

– The effects of natural disasters (storms, hail, fires).

– Passive military risks — damage from debris, drones, falling aircraft (in the extended package).

You can take out a Mini Hull insurancepolicy and ensure reliable protection for your car on the Visit Ukraine portal in just a few minutes.

Who can take out a Mini Hull insurance policy in Ukraine?

Mini Hull insurance is available to both Ukrainians and foreigners (except citizens of russia, Belarus, Iran and North Korea). The policy can be purchased online for a period of 1 month to 1 year.

Health insurance with war coverage — don't forget this

Car insurance is not everything. Due to the war in Ukraine, both pedestrians and drivers may be at risk. The only way to ensure treatment without huge expenses is health insurance with war coverage.

Insurance with war coverage has classic medical insurance coverage and additionally guarantees monetary compensation in the event of an accident resulting from military action, passive military risks, or terrorist acts.

Given the current situation in the country, such insurance is a critical safety element for foreigners planning a trip or long-term stay in Ukraine.

The Visit Ukraine portal offers quick and convenient medical insurance with war risk coverage. You can purchase insurance online and receive an electronic policy by email immediately after payment.

Final tips for driving in Ukraine safely and legally

Travelling by car in Ukraine can be an unforgettable adventure, but it is important to remember about safety and obey the law. Below are some useful recommendations that will help you avoid trouble and feel confident in your actions.

Documents that must always be carried with you

To legally drive on Ukrainian roads, drivers must have:

– Passport or other identity document.

– Valid driving licence.

– Vehicle registration certificate.

– Insurance policy (Green Card for foreigners or OSAGO for Ukrainian cars).

If you are stopped by the police, not having any of these documents may result in a fine or your vehicle being impounded.

What to do in the event of an accident?

1. Stop, turn on your hazard lights and set up an emergency stop sign.

2. Do not move your vehicle until the police arrive if there are injuries or significant damage.

3. Call:

– 102 — police;

– 103 — ambulance.

4. If possible, take photos of the scene and exchange contact details with witnesses.

5. If you are a foreigner, notify your insurance company and consulate.

Road safety in Ukraine

– Be especially careful at night on roads outside the city — sometimes there are unlit sections.

– Pay attention to air raid sirens. If you hear a siren, go to a safe place. What to do if there is an alarm — we explain here.

– Avoid travelling to regions where there is a risk of active hostilities or restrictions on movement.

Want to travel around Ukraine without unnecessary risks?

Before you leave, make sure that you and your car are well protected:

👉 Find out the terms and conditions of Mini Hull insurance and apply online

👉 Take out medical insurance with war risk coverage

Have a great trip!

Reminder! Ukraine is a popular travel destination, even during wartime. However, before planning each trip, it is important to understand your travel budget. What can you get for $100 in 2025 when travelling to Ukraine — read here.

Photo: generated using Gemini

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 – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

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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