Rules for entering Schengen countries with a non-biometric passport from Ukraine or other European countries

Ukrainians continue to actively travel to Schengen countries, but document requirements remain strict. This is especially true for those who have a non-biometric passport or plan to apply for a visa. Learn more about entry rules and required documents for travel in 2025

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside of Ukraine

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Due to the current situation in Ukraine, the rules for entering the Schengen area and the EU have changed. It is important to know the latest information, especially for citizens who are outside Ukraine and for those planning to travel to European countries.

Which border is best to use when leaving Ukraine in 2025, as well as what cannot be imported into or exported from Ukraine — read more at the links.

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Visa-free entry to the Schengen area for Ukrainian citizens

Ukrainian citizens can stay in the Schengen area without a visa under the following conditions:

– Possession of a biometric foreign passport. This is a mandatory requirement for visa-free entry, as only a biometric passport allows you to pass through customs control without a visa.

– Restriction on stay to 90 days within 180 days. This rule applies to Ukrainian citizens who do not exceed the period of stay in the Schengen area.

Schedule of international trains to and from Ukraine — follow the link.

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Important! Ukrainian citizens may stay in the Schengen area for no more than 90 days for a period of up to three months within a six-month period, regardless of whether they have been in other Schengen countries during that time.

What documents are required to travel abroad by car — we explain here.

To make your trip as safe and comfortable as possible, don't forget about medical insurance. You can get reliable medical insurance for your stay abroad on the Visit Ukraine portal — it's quick, convenient and guarantees you assistance in case of unforeseen situations.

Entry into the Schengen area with a non-biometric passport

For Ukrainian citizens who do not have a biometric passport, entry into the Schengen area in 2025 will require a visa. This applies to those who use old foreign passports or do not have biometric documents.

In this case, to obtain a visa, you must contact the consulates or embassies of the relevant Schengen countries in Ukraine or other countries of residence.

Which men are eligible to travel abroad in 2025, as well as the rules for travelling abroad with a child — read the links.

Also, remember: if you are planning to travel in your own or rented car, you must obtain a Green Card — international civil liability insurance for drivers.

You can get a Green Card in just a few minutes online at Visit Ukraine to enjoy your trip and avoid fines or refusal of entry.

Entry conditions for non-Schengen countries

If a Ukrainian citizen is in a country that is not part of the Schengen area (e.g. Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway, Bulgaria, Romania) and does not have a biometric passport, they must obtain a visa for entry through the consulate or embassy of the country they wish to enter.

Do Ukrainians need insurance when travelling visa-free — we explain here.

What to do if you do not have a foreign passport?

Ukrainians who are abroad without a valid foreign passport (e.g. due to loss or damage) can return to Ukraine via the Schengen area.

To do this, you need to contact the Consular Section of the Embassy of Ukraine to obtain an identity document for return to Ukraine.

After that, contact the consulate or embassy of the relevant Schengen country to apply for a transit visa.

If you need help preparing documents, applying for a visa or resolving visa issues abroad, use the services of migration lawyers from Visit Ukraine. Experts will help you navigate even the most complex situations so that your trip or legalisation goes smoothly.

Reminder! The EU is launching a new entry control system, EES, which will replace stamps in passports. How the new system will work, whether queues at the border will increase, and how to prepare for travel under the new rules — read here.

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

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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