Entering Ukraine in someone else's car: what should drivers know?

Are you planning a trip to Ukraine in a car that does not belong to you? It's important to familiarise yourself with all the legal and customs requirements in advance to avoid any troubles at the border. Find out more about the rules for entering Ukraine in someone else's car, the necessary documents and insurance requirements

Take out Mini Hull insurance at Visit Ukraine - guaranteed car protection in just 5 minutes!

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Entering Ukraine in a car that does not belong to the driver is a topical issue for many travellers, especially in the context of martial law and changes in legislation. Ukrainian legislation allows such entry, but subject to certain conditions and procedures.

We will tell you whether it is possible to enter Ukraine in someone else's car in 2025 in the article below.

Crossing the border in a car that does not belong to the driver

To cross the border in a vehicle that does not belong to the driver, you must have one of the following documents:

- A notarised power of attorney from the owner of the car with permission to travel abroad.

- Temporary car registration certificate issued by a service centre of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine.

These documents confirm the legal right to use the vehicle and allow you to avoid problems when crossing the border.

Customs procedures and temporary importation of a car into Ukraine

When entering Ukraine with a car with a foreign registration, the customs regimes of temporary importation or transit are applied:

- Temporary importation: for non-residents, it is permitted for a period of up to one year without payment of customs duties. Residents of Ukraine may import a car for up to 60 days per year without a deposit.

- Transit: allowed for a period of up to 10 days (or 5 days within the area of operation of one customs office) without payment of customs duties.

Violation of the terms of a car's stay in Ukraine may result in fines and other legal consequences.

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Car insurance in Ukraine: current rules for entering the country

To enter Ukraine by car with a foreign registration, it is mandatory to have an international Green Card insurance policy that covers the driver's civil liability. From 2025, the policy can be presented electronically from a smartphone.

Also, due to the military operations in Ukraine, it is recommended to take out additional voluntary insurance - Mini Hull. This policy provides basic protection against damage to the car caused by military risks, including missile or drone debris.

Mini Hull insurance is available for cars with Ukrainian and foreign registration, except for citizens of russia, Belarus, Iran and the DPRK.

You can buy Mini Hull insurance policy for foreigners online on Visit Ukraine portal in just a few minutes.

Take out reliable car insurance and travel without worries!

Just a reminder. Travelling in Ukraine during the war requires special attention to the safety of your car. When travelling to this country, you should protect your vehicle from military risks. Read here how to protect your car from military risks in Ukraine.

Photo: Depositphotos

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Visit Ukraine Insurance – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

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