What is prohibited in Ukraine on New Year's Eve: rules for foreigners

Celebrating the New Year in Ukraine has its own nuances, especially under martial law. It is important for foreigners to know what actions can lead to fines or problems with the law: from curfews to fireworks bans. In this article, we explain the main rules, restrictions, and practical tips for safe and peaceful celebrations

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New Year's Eve in Ukraine is held under special security rules. Under martial law, restrictions apply to everyone, regardless of citizenship. It is important for foreigners to familiarize themselves with the current prohibitions in advance, as actions common in other countries, such as setting off fireworks, night walks or loud celebrations, may result in fines or other legal consequences.

In this article, we explain what is prohibited in Ukraine on New Year's Eve, what rules apply to foreigners, and how to plan a celebration so that it is safe and does not violate the law.

Earlier, we talked about the peculiarities of organizing a trip to Ukraine for foreigners under martial law.

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Why is it important for foreigners to know the rules of celebrating the New Year in Ukraine?

During the New Year's holidays, Ukraine has enhanced security measures related to martial law. The state imposes restrictions aimed at protecting civilians, maintaining public order and responding quickly to possible threats. These rules are mandatory for everyone, including foreign citizens, tourists and temporary residents.

Foreigners need to understand that ignorance of local rules does not absolve them from liability. Violating curfews, ignoring air raid warnings, or participating in prohibited festive activities may result in fines, administrative sanctions, or problems with the legality of your stay in Ukraine. In addition, additional restrictions may apply in certain regions, so you should check the latest information and official announcements from local authorities before the holidays.

For foreigners planning to stay in Ukraine during the New Year holidays, it is especially important to have health insurance covering military risks. Standard travel policies are often not valid under martial law. Visit Ukraine offers insurance solutions that take into account the real conditions of staying in the country and help you get medical care without financial risks in case of unforeseen situations.

General rules of behavior in Ukraine during the New Year period

During the New Year holidays, Ukraine has basic rules of conduct aimed at ensuring security and public order. They are mandatory for everyone, including foreigners staying in the country temporarily or permanently. Compliance with these requirements will help to avoid misunderstandings with law enforcement agencies and ensure a peaceful celebration.

First of all, it is necessary to observe the curfew, which is set by local military administrations and may differ depending on the region. During an air raid, everyone is obliged to immediately go to the nearest shelter, regardless of the time of day or format of the celebration. Foreigners are also advised to always carry documents proving their identity and legality of stay in Ukraine.

Particular attention should be paid to complying with the legal requirements of the police and military, who have the right to check documents, restrict movement, or respond to public order. As the rules may be changed or amended depending on the security situation, it is important to regularly check official announcements and clarify the current restrictions in the region where you plan to celebrate the New Year.

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What is prohibited in Ukraine on New Year's Eve?

During the New Year period, Ukraine has clear prohibitions related to the security situation and martial law. They are aimed at protecting civilians and maintaining public order. Violation of these rules may have consequences for both Ukrainian citizens and foreigners.

Launching fireworks and salutes

In Ukraine, there is a ban on the use of fireworks, salutes and other pyrotechnic products. The main reason for this is to ensure safety and prevent panic during air raids, as explosions can be perceived as a threat. Violations are subject to administrative liability, and in some cases, confiscation of pyrotechnics and a fine.

Violation of the curfew

Staying outside during the curfew without a special permit is considered a violation. Only certain categories of people who have the appropriate documents are allowed to move around at night. For foreigners, this means possible checks, detention to clarify circumstances and administrative sanctions.

Drinking alcohol in public places

Drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited. Celebrations are allowed only in private premises, restaurants or establishments that operate within the permitted rules. Violation may result in a fine or other administrative action.

Noise and disturbance of public order

Loud music, shouting and other actions that disturb the peace of residents, especially in the evening and at night, are prohibited. During the holiday season, law enforcement agencies respond to complaints more quickly and harshly. Consequences may include fines or official warnings.

Unauthorized mass gatherings

Holding mass events without a permit is prohibited. Such gatherings may include spontaneous celebrations in streets, squares or public spaces. Restrictions are in place for security reasons and to control the situation during the holidays.

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Special rules for foreigners

Foreigners staying in Ukraine during the New Year holidays are subject to the same security rules as Ukrainian citizens. At the same time, there are a number of nuances that should be taken into account to avoid misunderstandings with law enforcement agencies and problems with the legality of stay.

Foreigners are advised to always have their passport or temporary or permanent residence permit with them, as well as documents confirming the legal grounds for staying in Ukraine. During the holiday period, random checks of documents are possible, especially during curfews or in case of public order violations.

When dealing with the police or military, it is important to comply with their legal requirements and remain calm. If there is a language barrier, it is advisable to explain this immediately and, if possible, seek help from an interpreter or friends who speak Ukrainian or English.

Although the rules are the same for everyone, the consequences of violations may be more serious for foreigners. In some cases, administrative offenses may affect your further stay in Ukraine or create difficulties when crossing the border.

Liability for violation of the rules

Violation of the rules of conduct during the New Year holidays in Ukraine entails administrative liability, regardless of the person's citizenship. For foreigners, it is important to understand that law enforcement agencies apply the same rules to both Ukrainian citizens and guests of the country.

Depending on the nature of the violation, fines may be imposed, official warnings may be issued, or other administrative measures may be taken. Most often, liability is incurred for violating curfews, drinking alcohol in public places, using prohibited pyrotechnics, or participating in unauthorized mass gatherings.

In the case of systematic or gross violations, additional consequences may arise, including verification of the legality of stay in Ukraine, complications when extending a visa or residence permit, and problems when leaving the country. That is why foreigners should be especially careful about the rules and plan their celebrations in advance, taking into account the current restrictions.

When planning a trip for the New Year, foreigners should take care of tickets and itinerary in advance.On Visit Ukraine, you can buy tickets for trains in Ukraine, intercity buses, and international flights from European countries. This is especially convenient when you need to choose a daytime flight, avoid arriving during curfew, or find the most comfortable travel option. All routes are collected in one service, which saves time and helps you not to miss important updates.

For travelers who want to arrive in Kyiv without unnecessary risks and overnight travel, Visit Ukraine offers convenient transfers from Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and other neighboring countries. You can choose the route, time, and type of transport: from comfortable buses to private cars. All flights are adapted to military restrictions and help you get to the capital safely without being tied to curfews.

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How to celebrate the New Year in Ukraine safely and peacefully

The safest format for celebrating the New Year in Ukraine is a pre-planned and organized celebration, taking into account the current restrictions. Martial law does not cancel the holiday, but requires a more responsible approach to choosing the place, time and format of the celebration.

The best option is to celebrate at home, in a hotel or restaurant that is officially open and adheres to safety rules, including curfews and shelters. Many establishments offer New Year's Eve programs in a shorter format or with the option to end the celebration before the start of travel restrictions.

For foreigners, it is also worth considering organized trips or tours, where all logistical and security issues have already been thought out. This format reduces the risks associated with traveling at night, ignorance of local rules or regional restrictions.

To learn more about safe tours from Visit Ukraine for winter travel in Ukraine, please follow the link.

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Following the recommendations of Visit Ukraine and using proven services allows you to celebrate the New Year in a comfortable atmosphere without breaking the rules and unnecessary stress. An organized approach means more peace of mind, predictability and positive impressions of your stay in Ukraine.

The New Year in Ukraine can be warm and pleasant even in difficult conditions, if you approach it responsibly. Using trusted sources of information, paying attention to regional rules, and choosing organized celebration formats will help you spend the holidays with comfort and confidence.

For foreigners planning a trip, it is important to assess possible risks in advance, plan the route and take care of safety. On Visit Ukraine, you can find up-to-date news, useful materials on the rules of stay, as well as convenient travel solutions: tickets, transfers from neighboring countries as a safe alternative to air travel, as well as Mini Hull Insurance, which will help you feel more confident when traveling in Ukraine during the holiday season.

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