Is a Schengen visa valid for Ukraine?

Many foreigners believe that a Schengen visa is sufficient for travelling to Ukraine, but this is not the case. Ukraine has its own entry rules, which differ from those of the Schengen countries. Find out more about whether a Schengen visa allows entry to Ukraine and what documents are actually required

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A Schengen visa is the key to unrestricted travel within Europe. However, many foreigners mistakenly believe that it is also sufficient for visiting Ukraine.

In this article, we explain why this is not the case, what documents are actually required for entry, and how to safely plan your trip during martial law.

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.

Is Ukraine a member of Schengen?

No. Ukraine is not currently part of the Schengen area.

Accordingly, Ukrainian border services apply their own rules and procedures for entry into the country.

Can I use a Schengen visa to enter Ukraine?

No, a Schengen visa does not automatically grant you the right to enter Ukraine. Each country has its own border crossing rules, and Ukraine is no exception. If you are planning to visit, you should make sure you have the right documents in advance:

– EU citizens are exempt from visa requirements. For more information on entering Ukraine for EU citizens, please click here.

– Citizens of other countries, depending on their country of origin, need either a Ukrainian national visa or an e-visa.

For more information on the rules for entering Ukraine and important details that foreigners should know when applying for a visa to Ukraine, please follow the links below:

– Applying for a visa to Ukraine for foreigners: list of documents, visa requirements and cost.

– How to obtain an e-Visa to Ukraine for foreigners: step-by-step instructions.

– How long can foreigners stay in Ukraine without a visa: fines for overstaying and extending your stay.

– Long-term entry into Ukraine: how to choose the right type of D visa?

What documents are required to enter Ukraine?

– Foreign passport. The document must be valid for the entire period of stay in Ukraine. Citizens of Turkey and Georgia can enter Ukraine with only their ID cards.

– Visa. This document is required only if not otherwise provided by law or if the country does not have a visa-free regime.

– Confirmation of the purpose of the trip (a document confirming family ties, an invitation from a Ukrainian citizen, an invitation to participate in conferences or other events, a booked tour, hotel reservation, etc.).

– Proof of sufficient funds for the entire duration of your stay in Ukraine and for your return to your country of origin. To confirm sufficient financial means, it is sufficient to present: cash in hryvnia or other convertible foreign currency, bank cards, ATM statements and receipts, a letter of guarantee from the host party undertaking to cover all expenses of the foreigner related to their stay in Ukraine and departure from its territory, confirmation of booking or payment for accommodation and meals, a contract for tourist services (voucher, ticket), a return ticket to the country of permanent residence or to a third country with a fixed date.

– Medical insurance covering war risks. You can purchase such a policy on the Visit Ukraine portal.

If the situation is unusual and you do not know what to do, we recommend that you contact the immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine, who provide support to foreigners on issues of entry, legalisation or residence in Ukraine.

What countries can you go to with a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa allows you to travel to countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement, including: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Spain, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Portugal, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, Lithuania, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Malta, and Croatia.

With a Schengen visa, you can travel freely within these countries, provided that the visa is valid and entitles you to cross the border or stay for the corresponding period.

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Can I enter from any country with a Schengen visa?

Only within the Schengen area. If you are already in Poland, for example, you can travel freely to Germany, France, Spain or other participating countries. However, you will not be able to enter Ukraine from these countries without separate documents. A Schengen visa is not valid for entry into Ukraine, even if you are already at the border.

How to prepare for a trip to Ukraine during the war?

At the Ukrainian border, border guards carefully check not only your documents but also the purpose of your trip, ask for additional information about your stay, and sometimes ask clarifying questions. It is important to be prepared for dialogue and to have confirmation of all the information you provide. It is advisable to have everything you need with you to avoid difficulties upon entry. If in doubt, it is better to consult a specialist in advance.

How to confirm the purpose of your trip to Ukraine — find out at the link.

Is it safe to travel to Ukraine in 2025?

Staying in Ukraine requires caution and vigilance, especially during martial law. To ensure a safe trip to Ukraine in 2025, follow these recommendations:

– Check official information. Read the recommendations of your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding travel to Ukraine. Follow the announcements on the websites of the State Border Service of Ukraine and local authorities.

– Prepare your documents. Make sure your passport is valid and your visa (if required) is in order. Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance policy, visa) and save them in digital form.

– Arrange for medical insurance. Your policy should cover treatment in Ukraine, including possible emergencies, and it is advisable to have additional coverage for risks related to war.

– Stay tuned for air raid alerts. Install the Air Raid Alert mobile app (App Store | Google Play) and learn the rules of conduct during shelling. In case of an alarm, immediately proceed to the nearest shelter.

– Do not photograph military objects. It is prohibited to photograph checkpoints, military equipment, Armed Forces positions and other strategic objects.

– Be prepared for checks. During wartime, law enforcement officers may check your documents. Always have them with you.

Planning a trip to Ukraine?

When travelling under martial law, you should pay special attention to formalities, as the rules may be stricter. The best solution is to seek assistance from experienced Visit Ukraine lawyers, who will help you in any situation.

Reminder! Foreigners planning to enter Ukraine should prepare in advance and plan everything. For information on the rules for entry of foreign citizens into Ukraine, the necessary documents and answers to frequently asked questions, follow the link.

Photo: iStock

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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