Top 5 things foreigners forget before entering to Ukraine and how to fix it

Planning a trip to Ukraine in 2025? Find out what foreigners most often forget before entering Ukraine - from visa requirements to medical insurance with war risk coverage. In the article you will find tips on how to avoid mistakes, pass border control, use bank cards and follow security rules during war. A proven guide for foreigners who want to travel safely, legally and comfortably

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Planning a trip to Ukraine? Despite the war, foreigners continue to discover this amazing country with its culture, hospitality and indomitable spirit. But before you pack your bags, you should know: there are a few things that travelers most often forget before crossing the Ukrainian border. And these little things can cause big problems.

In this article, we have collected the 5 common mistakes before visiting Ukraine - and tips on how to avoid them. This is a must-read guide for anyone looking for travel to Ukraine tips for foreigners and who wants to travel safely and legally.

What to prepare before entering Ukraine? We tell. 

Mistake 1 - Not checking the rules for entering Ukraine before traveling

One of the most common mistakes is not checking the Ukraine entry requirements for foreigners. Ukraine has different conditions for citizens of visa-free countries and those who must obtain a visa.

To enter Ukraine, foreigners and stateless persons need to have a basic package of documents. Depending on the country of origin, the requirements may differ slightly:

1. A passport valid for the entire period of stay. Citizens of Turkey and Georgia can enter on the basis of an ID card.

2. A visa is required only for citizens of countries with which a visa-free regime does not apply. You can check whether you need a visa on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

Important! Also, be sure to check before traveling whether you need a Schengen transit visa for your trip.

3. Documents confirming the purpose of the trip - a tourist voucher, hotel and ticket reservations, a tour, invitations to events or information about family ties.

4. Financial support - cash, bank cards, checks, bank statements, a letter of guarantee from the host party or confirmation of a paid tour and accommodation.

So, before traveling, be sure to check whether you need a visa, how long you can stay, and what documents you will need.

It is also important to make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. If you plan to stay longer, learn about the rules for registering at the place of residence - it is mandatory in case of a long stay, as well as the procedure for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine.

If you have any doubts about your status, visa regime or registration - Visit Ukraine lawyers are ready to provide advice on all issues of legal stay in Ukraine.

Mistake 2 - Not purchasing an insurance policy

Many people believe that a health insurance policy is a formality. But no: Ukraine medical insurance for foreigner is a mandatory requirement for entry, the presence of which is checked at the border, and the absence of a document may lead to a refusal of entry.

During the war, it is also important to understand that not every travel insurance Ukraine covers emergencies related to hostilities. That is why there is a special insurance with war coverage Ukraine, which compensates for expenses related to military events.

In order not to take risks, you can purchase official medical insurance online through Visit Ukraine insurance in just a few clicks - with options that include coverage of military risks for your peace of mind.

Don't risk being sent back at the border - buy insurance now!

Mistake 3 - Thinking that all payment systems in Ukraine work stably and equally

Another common mistake before visiting Ukraine is thinking that your bank card will work without problems. Due to the war, some foreign cards (especially those issued in Asian, African or Latin American countries) may be inactive for Ukrainian terminals due to banking restrictions or certain sanctions.

How to avoid this?

- Keep some cash with you (preferably in euros or dollars).

- Find out in advance whether your card supports cash withdrawals in Ukraine.

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Mistake 4 – Not preparing for questions at the border control

When passing through the border control Ukraine, employees may ask you a number of questions – this is a standard procedure, especially during martial law. Therefore, be sure to prepare for possible questions:

- Purpose of your visit?

- Where will you live?

- Do you have a return ticket or departure plan?

- Border guards may also ask to show travel documents for Ukraine, accommodation reservation, travel insurance or contacts of the inviting party. All this should be at hand.

Advice: remain confident, answer clearly and do not joke about security. Also be prepared for customs control: checking luggage, medicines, equipment, etc.

Read what can be imported into Ukraine from abroad in this article.

Mistake 5 – Ignoring security requirements in wartime

Many travelers underestimate the peculiarities of staying in a country that is at war. For safe travel in Ukraine, follow these rules of conduct:

- During an air raid

Air raid alerts in Ukraine should not be taken lightly. When the “Air Raid” app (App Store | Google Play) notifies you of danger – stop all activities and immediately head to the nearest shelter.

Shelters are located in metro stations, basements, underground parking lots and specially designated safe zones.

If you stay indoors – avoid windows, and outdoors – avoid open spaces.

Always keep your documents, phone and portable charger with you.

Important! Always listen to the alarm announcements and avoid filming or broadcasting during the alarm for your safety and the safety of others.

Read here why the two-wall rule no longer saves: how to protect yourself during shelling in Ukraine in 2025. The algorithm of actions for foreigners during an air raid alert is in this article.

- During curfew

Most Ukrainian cities have a curfew, usually from midnight to 5:00 a.m., although the time may vary depending on the region.

Avoid being outside during this time. Police and military patrols will stop anyone who violates it.

Always carry your passport or ID card with you when moving around the city, even during the day.

Plan your evenings responsibly so that you return to your place of residence before the curfew begins.

- At military checkpoints

Checkpoints are common in and around Ukrainian cities for security reasons.

When approaching a checkpoint - reduce speed and be prepared to stop as you approach the checkpoint, where you should follow the instructions of the military personnel.

Do not take photos or videos at or near checkpoints.

Carry your passport, visa, and any travel documents with you. It is advisable to have both printed and digital copies.

Tip: A calm attitude, clear communication, and respect for local protocols will help you pass through checkpoints without any problems.

If you are concerned about the risks associated with war, consider purchasing travel insurance that specifically covers war risks - Visit Ukraine offers just such policies.

Checklist: What do you need to prepare before entering Ukraine as a foreigner?

Before traveling to Ukraine, be sure to make sure that you have prepared everything you need. Here is a complete package of documents, actions, and things that will help you avoid problems at the border and during your stay in the country:

1. Documents

- Valid international passport (at least 6 months before expiration).

- Visa (if required for your country).

- Transit visa (if traveling through the Schengen zone).

- Documents confirming the purpose of the trip (hotel reservation, tour voucher, invitation, tickets, etc.).

- Proof of financial capacity (cash, bank statements, tour payment, etc.).

- Medical insurance - mandatory standard coverage or a policy with military risks coverage (especially recommended in war conditions).

- Printed or digital copies of all documents.

2. Preparation for border control

- Know the purpose of the visit, route, addresses of stay.

- Have a return ticket or departure plan.

- Be prepared for questions from border guards and customs officers.

- Do not transport prohibited items (for more details, see this article on customs regulations).

3. Finances

- Check whether your bank card works in Ukraine.

- Have some money in cash (dollars or euros).

- Know where to exchange currency safely.

4. Safety rules in war conditions

- Download the “Air Alert” application (App Store | Google Play).

- Find out the shelters near your home.

- Get acquainted with the rules of conduct during shelling.

- Know the curfew time in the selected regions.

- Always have your documents with you (passport, insurance, ID card).

- Be prepared for checks at checkpoints: behave calmly, do not shoot video.

5. Additionally recommended

- Have a power bank, offline translator and embassy contacts.

- Purchase a Ukrainian SIM card with mobile Internet.

- Register in the “DRUG” system or at the embassy of your country

- Consult with a migration lawyer if you plan a long-term stay or apply for a residence permit (Visit Ukraine lawyers are ready to help).

Traveling to Ukraine today requires careful preparation – not only for security reasons, but also to avoid unpleasant misunderstandings at the border or during your stay in the country. If you take care of your documents, insurance, financial issues in advance and familiarize yourself with the current rules, your trip will be not only legal, but also as comfortable as possible. Ukraine is open to guests – and, despite difficult times, is ready to amaze you with its strength, beauty and sincerity.

Haven’t taken out medical insurance yet?

Take it out online through Visit Ukraine – available as standard or with military risk coverage. Take care of your protection now.

Reminder! Ukraine is always happy to welcome foreign guests and its borders, despite the war, remain open to tourists. We have already told you how to come to Ukraine and what is needed for this.

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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