How to confirm the purpose of entry into Ukraine?

Confirmation of the purpose of the trip is a prerequisite for legally crossing the Ukrainian border and entering the country. Find out what you need to confirm the purpose of your trip and how to do it

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The purpose of a foreign citizen or stateless person's entry into Ukraine is confirmed by a corresponding visa in their passport or other identity document. The justification for the purpose of the visit will depend on the type of visa obtained.

How to confirm the purpose of entry into Ukraine and what nuances foreigners should be aware of - we will tell you more in this article.

We have also discussed the current rules for entering Ukraine and customs control at the Ukrainian border in previous articles.

Detailed information that 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.

What type of visa to Ukraine do I need?

The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your trip. They are divided into the following types:

1. Transit visa - for transit through the territory of Ukraine to a third country, as well as for transit transportation of goods or passengers. When applying for a transit visa, the period of stay in Ukraine should not exceed 5 days.

2. Short-term visa - for a stay in Ukraine for up to 90 days within 180 days. In this case, the number of permitted exits and entries to Ukraine will depend on the subtype of the visa issued (single, double or multiple entry). Such a visa is suitable, for example, for tourist travel.

3. Long-term visa - for a stay in Ukraine for up to 90 days. Such a visa is obtained for the purpose of processing documents, for example, for immigration to Ukraine.

Thus, a foreigner or a stateless person can justify the purpose of entry in accordance with the type of visa issued.

How to obtain a visa to Ukraine - read here.

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Please note! Another important condition for entering Ukraine is the availability of an appropriate insurance policy. Due to the introduction of martial law in the country, any foreign insurance automatically ceases to be valid after crossing the Ukrainian border. This is because insurance companies do not cover risks associated with war in any country where military operations or armed conflicts are ongoing. In addition, Ukrainian law requires that insurance be taken out with the relevant insurance companies. Therefore, in order to make your stay in Ukraine as safe as possible, we recommend that you take out insurance covering military risks. You can do this on the Visit Ukraine website in just a few minutes.

Confirmation of the purpose of entry to Ukraine: what documents are required?

Depending on the purpose of the trip, a foreigner may provide:

▶ travel vouchers, hotel reservations, or apartment rental agreements;

▶ invitations or tickets to seminars, exhibitions, fairs, etc;

▶ documents confirming the intention to undergo medical treatment in a certain medical institution in Ukraine;

▶ written confirmation of a conference, meeting, etc;

▶ a written invitation from a company or organization, for example, to a conference or job;

▶ a notarized invitation from a citizen of Ukraine (friend, relative, bride/groom, etc.);

▶ a document confirming the fact of studying at a Ukrainian university;

▶ visa or tickets to a third country (if entering Ukraine for transit purposes).

It is also important to note that a foreigner must confirm that he or she has the necessary financial security for the duration of his or her stay in Ukraine and for returning to his or her country of residence. Only those who have a residence permit in Ukraine, minors, refugees, diplomats, and tourists on a cruise are exempt from financial verification.

Read also: What you need to know about the rules for foreign cars in Ukraine in 2025?

How to confirm the availability of financial security for entry into Ukraine?

To confirm this, a foreigner or stateless person may present to the border guards

▶ cash (hryvnia or other currency)

▶ bank statements or ATM receipts;

▶ confirmation of hotel reservation or payment for accommodation and meals;

▶ contract for travel services (tour, voucher, voucher);

▶ a return ticket for returning to the country of permanent residence/third country with a fixed date;

▶ a letter of guarantee from the host person (if there is an invitation to Ukraine).

At the same time, having all the necessary documents is not an absolute guarantee that a foreigner will be able to enter the territory of Ukraine, as the State Border Guard Service, as in other countries, ultimately determines the right to enter. 

Travelling to Ukraine is always an exciting adventure for foreigners, but it can also be challenging, especially when it comes to confirming the purpose of your visit at the border. This stage is often critical, as border guards have every right to refuse entry without a complete set of documents or a clear explanation of the reason for your visit.

The Visit Ukraine portal offers professional support from lawyers specialising in migration issues, who help foreigners prepare properly for crossing the border. This is a real opportunity to avoid unnecessary stress, receive individual assistance and comply with all the legal requirements of Ukrainian legislation.

Book a consultation now and take care of your trip in advance!

We remind you! Despite the martial law and the presence of dangerous regions, Ukraine attracts tourists from all over the world. Is it safe in Ukraine now and useful tips for those planning a trip — follow the link.

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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