International motor insurance Green Card: why have Ukrainians started to take out policies less frequently?

Ukrainian drivers are increasingly less likely to purchase international Green Card insurance policies, and this trend is linked not only to a decrease in travel, but also to changes in the rules governing the use of cars abroad. At the same time, traffic accidents involving Ukrainians in Europe continue to occur, and insurance payouts remain significant. Learn more about the reasons for the changes, the risks and the importance of insurance abroad

Green Card insurance policy for traveling abroad by car

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The Motor Transport Insurance Bureau of Ukraine (MTIBU) reports that this year Ukrainians have been purchasing international Green Card insurance policies less frequently than last year. Despite the fact that Ukrainian cars continue to actively travel abroad, statistics show that many drivers have changed their approach to insurance, and some are switching to local policies in the countries they visit.

Why this has happened, what consequences it has for drivers, and how many accidents involving Ukrainians occur abroad — we will discuss this further in the article.

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Fewer policies: why are Ukrainians buying Green Cards less often?

According to the results for the period from January to November 2025, the number of international insurance policies issued decreased compared to last year. Along with the decline in the number of contracts, total insurance premium income also decreased.

The main reason for this trend is a change in the behaviour of drivers who have been living outside Ukraine for a long time. Some Ukrainians no longer use Green Cards as a short-term solution for travel, as they live abroad for months or even years. At the same time, a number of European countries have changed the rules for foreign-registered cars. They now require local registration and insurance within the country. This automatically reduces the need for international policies.

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Accidents abroad: the numbers are falling

Along with the decrease in the number of policies issued, the number of accidents caused by Ukrainian drivers abroad has also decreased. During the same period, more than 13,000 insurance claims were recorded, which is less than last year.

Despite this, accidents still happen, and each such accident entails significant costs. Ukrainian insurers have already paid tens of millions of euros in compensation to foreign victims. It is important to understand that the amount of compensation depends on the country where the accident occurred. In most EU countries, insurance limits reach millions of euros per case, so individual payments can reach hundreds of thousands of euros.

Why is the Green Card still so important?

Even with fewer policies being issued, international motor insurance is still a must for driving into most European countries with Ukrainian number plates. Not having it means fines and huge financial risks if you get into an accident.

For many Ukrainians, the Green Card is a guarantee that in case of problems abroad, they will not have to cover the damages themselves, which can amount to tens or even hundreds of thousands of euros.

Where is it safe and convenient to get a Green Card?

To avoid risks and feel confident behind the wheel abroad, it is important to have a reliable insurance policy. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can quickly and officially apply for a Green Card online, choose the desired validity period, receive the document immediately by email, and be sure that your policy meets international requirements.

Travel peacefully and without unnecessary risks — apply for a Green Card on Visit Ukraine right now!

Reminder! Poland is tightening controls on compulsory motor insurance, and for many drivers this could result in unexpected costs. Even a short break in your OC policy can lead to a large fine, especially given the planned changes in legislation. What fines will apply in Poland for not having motor insurance and what is important to check now — we explain here.

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