What cannot be imported into Ukraine: a memo for foreigners and Ukrainians

What is permitted and what is strictly prohibited to bring into Ukraine is important information for anyone planning to cross the border. Items that seem ordinary at home can cause problems upon entry. Learn more about customs regulations in Ukraine, restrictions and prohibited items in 2025

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Crossing the state border is not only an exciting journey, but also a responsibility. Even a minor mistake when transporting items can cost you time, money or, in some cases, lead to refusal of entry.

The current rules on what is prohibited or restricted for import into Ukraine are set out below.

Entry into Ukraine for EU citizens: visa requirements, insurance and border crossing — read here.

Detailed information you need to know before travelling to Ukraine can be found at the following links:

– Travelling to Ukraine for tourism;

– Working in Ukraine;

– Immigrating to Ukraine;

– Studying in Ukraine;

– Supporting Ukraine.

Customs rules in Ukraine 2025: general rules for importing items

When entering Ukraine, a system of ‘green’ and ‘red’ corridors is in place. If you are only transporting permitted items within the allowed limits, you can use the “green” corridor. If you have items that are subject to declaration or exceed the established limits, choose the ‘red’ corridor.

How to find accommodation in Ukraine and what to consider when booking — we told you in our article about hotels in Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa and other cities.

The following items may be imported without declaration or payment of customs duties:

– Personal belongings (clothing, gadgets, jewellery, etc.).

– Cash up to 10,000 euros.

– Goods weighing up to 50 kg and costing up to €500 (when crossing by land transport).

– Up to 5 packages of medicines without prohibited substances.

– Food products worth up to €200.

– Alcohol and tobacco products within the permitted limits.

The following must be declared:

– Amounts exceeding 10,000 euros.

– Valuables (precious metals, antiques, works of art).

– Goods exceeding the permitted limits.

– Weapons, certain medicines, biomaterials, live animals.

Tip for safe travel: Before entering Ukraine, be sure to take out medical insurance with war coverage. It covers not only typical risks such as illness or injury, but also emergencies related to military action.

You can quickly purchase such a policy online at Visit Ukraine — in just a few minutes and without any unnecessary paperwork. This gives you peace of mind and confidence that you will not be left alone with a problem in a critical situation.

Prohibited items upon entry: what cannot be brought into Ukraine?

Regardless of the circumstances, the following items are prohibited from being brought into Ukraine:

– Narcotic and psychotropic substances (without official permission).

– Explosive, poisonous, radioactive substances.

– Printed or electronic products containing calls for violence or hostility, racist or xenophobic content, propaganda of war or pornography.

– Products without labelling or quality certificates.

– Unidentified or sick animals.

– Cultural property that is internationally wanted.

– Weapons of any type (firearms, cold weapons, gas weapons) without special permission from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Important! If you are entering Ukraine in a foreign-registered car, please familiarise yourself with the current rules for crossing the border, transit and customs clearance in 2025.

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What can be imported into Ukraine, but with restrictions?

There are categories of goods and items that are allowed to be imported, but only in certain quantities or subject to declaration.

Alcohol and tobacco:

– Up to 200 cigarettes or up to 50 cigars or up to 250 g of tobacco (or in combination, if the total does not exceed 250 g).

– Up to 5 litres of beer, 2 litres of wine and 1 litre of spirits (with an alcohol content of over 22%).

Medicines:

– Up to 5 packages per person – without special permission.

– Medicines containing narcotic substances – only with a prescription and confirmation of prescription.

Animals:

– May be imported, but must have a veterinary passport, vaccination certificate and documentary proof of identification.

Electronics, tools, valuables:

– If the items are of high value or look like new goods for resale, customs has the right to request a declaration or documents confirming personal use.

Read also: How to confirm the purpose of entry into Ukraine?

Advice on Ukrainian customs regulations: what to do if you are unsure?

Are you unsure whether you are allowed to import a particular item? Don't take any risks. In such cases, we recommend that you:

– Check the official resources of the Ukrainian customs service.

– Choose the ‘red’ corridor and consult with the customs inspector before passing through customs control.

– Contact lawyers who specialise in border crossing.

Qualified lawyers from the Visit Ukraine portal will answer all your customs questions and provide high-quality advice on crossing the Ukrainian border.

Book a consultation with a Visit Ukraine lawyer and ensure smooth entry into Ukraine in advance!

Reminder! If you plan to travel to Ukraine by car, it is worth researching all the current rules and document requirements in advance. Can you enter Ukraine in a foreign rented car — read here.

Photo: dpsu.gov.ua

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 – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

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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