Can you be banned from traveling abroad due to debts in 2025: utility bills, fines, and alimony

Debts do not always prevent you from traveling abroad. Find out in which cases you may be banned from crossing the border, how to check for restrictions, and what steps you can take to avoid problems when traveling in 2025

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Ukrainians often worry whether debts for utilities, alimony, or fines could be grounds for refusing to allow them to travel abroad. In this article, we explain which debts could affect your plans, how to check for restrictions, and what to do if problems arise.

Are debts an automatic reason for refusing to cross the border?

The mere fact that you have a debt does not mean that border guards will stop you when you leave the country. Restrictions only arise when enforcement proceedings have been initiated and there is a corresponding court decision. This means that debts alone do not block your departure.

Main grounds for prohibiting travel abroad in 2025

The law provides for several key cases when a Ukrainian citizen may be prohibited from leaving the country:

● Open enforcement proceedings. If the creditor has won the case and the executor has opened proceedings, they can apply to the court with a request to restrict travel.

● Court order for a temporary ban. The court may impose restrictions as a preventive measure in civil, commercial, or criminal cases.

● Alimony arrears. Malicious defaulters are restricted in their rights, including the ability to travel abroad.

● Debts to the state. Failure to pay taxes, fines, or other mandatory payments may result in proceedings being initiated and a subsequent travel ban.

Are there any changes in 2025?

As of 2025, there are no significant legislative changes regarding travel with debts, but there are several important aspects:

● Tighter controls. The border service is checking restrictions related to martial law more carefully.

● Automated systems. Data from the executive and border services is synchronized faster, which reduces the chance of leaving the country while under a ban.

● Judicial practice. It is constantly changing, so it is important to keep up to date with the latest information and consult with lawyers in a timely manner.

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How to check if there is a travel ban?

Before traveling abroad, it is worth checking whether there are any open proceedings or court decisions. This can be done through:

● OpenDataUA. You can view court cases by surname and first name, but you need to carefully check the place of consideration and the essence of the case.

● The website “Judicial Power of Ukraine.” Allows you to search for court decisions on restrictions.

● Unified Register of Debtors. You can check enforcement proceedings by full name and identification code.

● Request to the State Border Service. Provides official confirmation of the absence or presence of a ban.

What to do if you have debts and need to leave?

If it turns out that enforcement proceedings have been opened against you or the court has issued a ban:

● Find out the details. Check if there is a court decision restricting your departure. If not, you can cross the border.

● Reach an agreement with the creditor. Conclude a settlement agreement or restructuring agreement.

● Pay off the debt. This is the most reliable way to remove the restriction.

● Contact the state enforcement officer. After payment, they can file a motion to lift the restriction.

● Appeal the decision. If you believe the ban is illegal, file an appeal.

Why is it important to consult a lawyer?

Even if you are sure that you have no debts, sometimes the information in the registers may be incorrect or outdated. In such cases, it is important to seek the help of a lawyer who will review your situation and advise you on the legal path to take.

In addition, the issue of crossing the border often intersects with migration procedures — obtaining residence permits, work permits, or visas. For Ukrainians who plan to travel abroad for a long time, the services of migration lawyers at Visit Ukraine, who specialize in such issues and help avoid legal risks, may be useful.

Not sure which consultation format to choose? Contact our managers via Telegram or WhatsApp – they will help you choose the best option for your situation.

We remind you! Ukraine has changed the procedure for men traveling abroad during martial law. Read about who can cross the border, what documents are required, and what exceptions are provided for by law in our previous article.

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