ukraine foreign office travel advice

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

FCDO  advises against all but essential travel to the western regions of:

• Zakarpattia
• Ivano-Frankivsk

FCDO  advises against all travel to

• within 50km of the borders of Volyn, Rivne and Zhytomyr with Belarus, due to the ongoing presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security personnel on the Belarusian side of the border
• the rest of Ukraine

Russian invasion of Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing, with missile and drone attacks across the country. Russian missile and drone strikes have caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including residential areas, energy and industrial facilities, injuring and killing civilians.  Ukraine’s airspace remains closed.

There is an ongoing risk of harm to British nationals from Russian attacks across all of Ukraine, including from missiles and drones that hit unintended targets or from falling debris. Whilst these are more frequent where FCDO advises against all travel, they could also happen in the western regions, where FCDO advice is against all but essential travel.

In the event of attacks, follow the advice of the local authorities, including responding to air raid sirens.

The situation in Ukraine can change quickly. Local rules and measures may change at short notice or with no notification. FCDO cannot confirm that all information here reflects the latest situation in Ukraine.

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

Explosions continue to be reported near the area of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant indicating ongoing military activity. There have been no reports of any radiation release.

Leaving Ukraine

Expect increased documentation checks, transport restrictions and increased security measures. Other measures could include additional border controls, restrictions on public events, curfews, restrictions on telephones, internet and broadcasting, and evacuations of certain areas.

If you are a dual British-Ukrainian national or you have the right to reside in the UK, and want to leave Ukraine, contact the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine on [email protected] for advice.

Ukrainian national and dual-national males aged 18 to 60 are prohibited from leaving the country.

The authorities in the countries bordering Ukraine set and enforce their entry rules. Before you travel, check the foreign travel advice for any countries you plan to travel through. If you need consular assistance, contact the British Embassy in that country (contact details can be found in the relevant foreign travel advice page).

Assisted departure or evacuation

The British Embassy in Kyiv is unable to provide in-person consular assistance.

FCDO cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine or evacuation. If you are in Ukraine against FCDO advice, or require support to leave Ukraine, take advice from a private security company and take appropriate security measures.

FCDO cannot endorse or recommend any private security companies. Research whether a service provider will be suitable for your requirements and meets code of conduct and safety standards. The Security in Complex Environments Group (SCEG) has several companies listed on their website. These companies have accredited certification for international standards.

FCDO has not completed due diligence checks on these companies. FCDO does not accept any liability arising to any person for any loss or damage suffered through using these service providers or this information. FCDO is not able to provide financial assistance for employing private security or medical evacuation companies.

Visas for the UK

If you are a family member of a British national normally living in Ukraine and intend to apply for a visa under the Ukrainian Family Scheme, read the guidance on visas for family members of British nationals normally living in Ukraine . Call +44 (0)808 164 8810 (select option 1) for assistance before applying.

Under this scheme, which is free, those joining family in the UK can stay in the UK for up to 3 years. They will be able to study, work and access public funds.

Foreign fighters

If you travel to Ukraine to fight, or to assist others engaged in the war, your activities may amount to offences under UK legislation.  You could be prosecuted on your return to the UK.

British nationals fighting in Ukraine have been killed or captured. British nationals undertaking humanitarian work have also been detained by Russian authorities. The risk to life, or of mistreatment, is high.

Our ability to provide consular support in these circumstances is very limited.

Supporting Ukraine

There are many ways to support Ukraine from the UK. For further information, see Ukraine: what you can do to help .

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Travel Advisory May 22, 2023

Ukraine - level 4: do not travel.

Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

All U.S. citizens should carefully monitor U.S. government notices and local and international media outlets for information about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place. Those choosing to remain in Ukraine should exercise caution due to the potential for military attacks, crime, civil unrest, and consult the Department’s latest security alerts.

The security situation in Ukraine remains unpredictable. U.S. citizens in Ukraine should stay vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. In the event of mortar, missile, drone, or rocket fire, follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. If you feel your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location.

There are continued reports of Russian forces and their proxies singling out U.S. citizens in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine for detention, interrogation, or harassment because of their nationality. U.S. citizens have also been singled out when evacuating by land through Russia-occupied territory or to Russia or Belarus.

U.S. citizens seeking emergency assistance should email [email protected] for assistance. Please review what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas . U.S. citizens may also seek consular services, including requests for repatriation loans, passports, and visa services, at U.S. embassies and consulates in neighboring countries .

On February 24, 2022, the Ukrainian government declared a state of emergency. Each province (oblast) decides on measures to be implemented according to local conditions. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections, among other measures. Follow any oblast-specific state of emergency measures.

Many in the international community, including the United States and Ukraine, do not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea in 2014, nor the September 2022 purported annexation of four other Ukrainian oblasts -- Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. There are also abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s occupation.

Although Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine severely restricts the Embassy’s access and ability to provide services in these areas, the Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continue to remotely provide certain emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia – to the extent possible given security conditions.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over Ukraine. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ukraine.

Travel to High-Risk Areas

If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and travel to Ukraine, you should consider taking the following steps:

• Visit our website on Travel to High-Risk areas .
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. This plan should specify who you would contact first and how they should share the information.
• Enroll your trip in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

If you are currently in Ukraine:

• Read the Department’s country information page on Ukraine.
• Familiarize yourself with information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas .
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notices related to your travel.
• Get a COVID vaccine to facilitate your travel.
• Understand the COVID testing and vaccine requirements for all countries that you will transit through to your destination.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Ukraine.
• Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk areas .

Embassy Message

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry and exit

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for tourism stays of less than 90 days within a 180-day period

Anything over €10,000 or foreign currency equivalent must be declared in writing

Same as restrictions for entry

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy kyiv.

4 A.I. Sikorsky St. (formerly Tankova) 04112 Kyiv, Ukraine Telephone:  +38 (044) 521-5000 Fax: +38 (044) 521-5544 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You do not need a visa to enter Ukraine for tourism purposes for visits of up to 90 days in any 180 day period, but must be able to provide proof of valid health insurance and sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.
• No vaccinations are required for entry, but you should be up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations .
• A visa and residency permit is required for stays over 90 days. You must receive the visa in advance at a Ukrainian embassy or consulate. You cannot get a Ukrainian visa at the airport or at the border. For information regarding visa requirements and to find the nearest Ukrainian embassy or consulate, visit the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Embassy of Ukraine in the U.S.
• You must have a visa to apply for a Ukrainian residency permit; you may not do so while on visa-free tourist travel. You must apply with the State Migration Service of Ukraine (SMS) for a residency permit no later than 15 working days before your visa’s expiration date. Once you have a residency permit you can reside in Ukraine for as long as it remains valid. More information is available at the SMS website (limited information available in English).

Crimea: There is an extensive Russian Federation military presence in the Crimean Peninsula. Follow the guidance in our Travel Advisory for Ukraine and defer all travel to Crimea. If you choose to travel there, you should be aware:

• U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to Crimea and are unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens there.
• You may only legally enter Crimea from mainland Ukraine.
• Entrance into Crimea by any other entry point other than from mainland Ukraine, such as air, sea, or the Kerch Strait Bridge is illegal. You will be denied entry into mainland Ukraine and banned from entering Ukraine for five years.
• Time spent in Crimea will count against the 90 day visa-free period. 

Eastern Ukraine: Russia-led forces continue to control areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, and the ongoing armed conflict has resulted in more than 10,000 deaths. Follow the guidance in our Travel Advisory for Ukraine , and do not travel there. If you choose to travel to these areas, you should be aware:

• U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to the eastern parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and to adjacent regions, and the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens there.
• Entering Ukraine through the area of armed conflict is a violation of Ukrainian law. U.S. citizens who enter Ukraine illegally through the area of armed conflict along the Russian border will not be allowed to pass through government checkpoints to territory controlled by the government of Ukraine.
• Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) procedures at entry/exit points require that permit applications be submitted and approved electronically prior to travel in the zone of armed conflict.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Ukraine. However, anyone with tuberculosis cannot get permanent residency in Ukraine. There are no waivers or exceptions to this rule.

Information about customs rules can be found on the Ukrainian State Customs Service website and on our Customs Information page.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism Activity: Credible information indicates that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

Small-scale bombings continue to occur throughout Ukraine. While most attacks are at night and appear intended to cause property damage and incite fear, multiple attacks within the past year have been fatal, sometimes occurring in populated areas during daylight hours.

Please read the Travel Advisory for Ukraine before traveling. While in Ukraine, you should carry travel documents with you at all times.

Potential for civil disturbances: Large-scale protests have occurred from time to time in cities throughout Ukraine.

• You should avoid large gatherings or protests and adjacent areas.
• In the past, some protests have turned violent and resulted in deaths and injuries. 
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local news media.
• The Embassy will post information about sizeable planned protests on the Embassy website .

Crimea: There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in Crimea as part of Russia’s occupation and attempted annexation of this part of Ukraine, which the international community, including the United States and Ukraine, does not recognize. There are continuing abuses against and arbitrary imprisonment of foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in Crimea, particularly abuses against individuals who are seen as challenging Russian authority on the peninsula. The U.S. government prohibits employees from traveling to Crimea and is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens there.

Eastern Ukraine : U.S. citizens should not travel to the eastern parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts due to ongoing armed conflict.

• The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in this area.
• U.S. citizens have been specifically targeted by gunmen representing the self-proclaimed authorities and threatened, detained, or kidnapped for hours or days.
• Shortages of water, power, medicine, and food supplies have also been reported in Russian-proxy-controlled territory, and widespread disorder and looting has been confirmed in these areas.

Crime: Criminals may target tourists due to perceived wealth. A new professional and well-trained police force (Patrol Police) has been implemented, but police corruption remains an issue.

• Criminal activity, including burglaries, robberies, muggings, and pickpocketing is increasingly a problem in Ukraine.
• Law enforcement and emergency officials rarely speak English, and interpreters are not readily available.
• Muggings, attacks, armed robberies, harassment, or the drugging at nightspots of unsuspecting victims (who are then robbed and/or assaulted) have been reported.
• Cases of assaults in apartment building corridors, elevators, and stairwells, as well as armed break-ins and crimes involving firearms, have also been reported.
• Recently, there has been an increase in reports of criminals luring unsuspecting visitors to Ukraine with promises of cheap lodging and/or companionship. The criminals then forcibly abduct the visitors and proceed to make unauthorized transactions via their victims’ bank cards and accounts.
• Many incidents of criminal activity occur on the public transport system, including the metro. When riding on public transportation or moving in crowded areas, keep your purse, bag, or backpack tightly under your arm and/or in front of your body. 

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victim of sexual assault should report crimes to the local police at 102 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +38 (044) 521-5000 after hours. 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• provide you with information about medical facilities
• provide information about reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution (subject to approval)
• help you find temporary accommodation and arrange flights home in cases of destitution
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. The Embassy will be able to assist with contacting police and provide you with a list of local shelters.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not occur everywhere. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally able to access areas outside of major cities and to provide necessary medical treatment, but it may take time for them to arrive. Local law requires foreigners to have medical insurance when traveling to Ukraine. U.S. citizens are encouraged to consider purchasing additional medical evacuation insurance when arranging their medical insurance for traveling to Ukraine. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you are arrested, you can face extended periods, even years, in pre-trial detention. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs are severe, and if convicted you can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Furthermore, some violations of laws in Ukraine are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrests: When in a foreign country, you are subject the country’s laws. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

• Ukrainian law permits police to stop you for any reason and check your identification documents.
• You are required to carry your passport at all times; police may check to verify your legal presence in Ukraine.
• Police are permitted to detain you for up to 72 hours without formal charges.
• If stopped by the police for an unclear reason, call the U.S. Embassy at +38 (044) 521 5000.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report and the following webpages for details

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity is a problem in Ukraine, as LGBTI individuals have been the target of harassment, threats, and acts of violence. For more detailed information about LGBTI rights in Ukraine, you may review the State Department’s Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2017 .  For further information on LGBTI travel, please read our Information for LGBT Travelers page.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Accessibility is an issue in Ukraine. Public transport systems are not fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. Some newer buildings feature ramps and elevators, but older buildings do not. You should check ahead with your hotel/destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled traveler needs before visiting Ukraine. See our Traveling with Disabilities page.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

By Ukrainian law, all foreigners coming to Ukraine must have medical insurance covering their period of travel. Note that the general quality of healthcare in Ukraine does not meet U.S. standards.

• Fees at government clinics and hospitals are lower than those at private clinics, but there have been reports that doctors request bribes or additional payments before treating patients.
• Private physicians and private hospitals charge fees for services, and some do not accept local health insurance. 
• Public facilities only accept cash payments, while most private clinics accept credit cards.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas . We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medication: If traveling with prescription medication, check with the State Register of Medicines (Ukrainian language only) to ensure the medication is legal to bring into the country, as many medications that are legal in the United States are prohibited in Ukraine. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

The following diseases are prevalent in Ukraine:

• Tuberculosis

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Generally, roads outside major urban areas are in bad condition and poorly lit.
• U.S. drivers licenses are not valid in Ukraine as their vehicle categories do not meet the standards enumerated in the 1968 Convention on Road Traffic (as amended in 2011). Travelers who do not have a foreign driver’s license that meets these requirements must obtain either a Ukrainian driver’s license or an International Driving Permit .
• You should drive defensively at all times.
• Drivers are often poorly trained; many drive without a valid driver's license.
• Drivers can also be dangerously aggressive; often do not respect the rights of pedestrians, even at clearly marked pedestrian crossings; and sometimes drive on the sidewalks.
• Many cars, including some taxis, do not meet U.S. safety standards.

In case of accidents:

• Emergency number: Dial 103 for ambulance service and 102 for police. Ambulance crews do not respond quickly and do not often include trained paramedics.
• Notify the police immediately. By law, police must be notified in the event of an accident. Remain at the scene until the police arrive to conduct an investigation.
• It is a criminal offense to move the vehicle from the site of the accident unless it presents a clear safety concern (causing a traffic jam is not considered a safety concern). In practice, this even includes moving a vehicle to the side of the road.
• You must wait until the police arrive and complete their report; often this can take several hours.
• The police will decide preliminary responsibility, take the drivers’ personal information, seize driver’s licenses, and file an accident report. Temporary driver’s licenses will be issued. Once a court decision has been made regarding responsibility, the original driver’s licenses can be recovered from police. Note that in the vast majority of cases, the police will not speak English.

Traffic Laws:  

• Ukraine has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Violations may result in fines, imprisonment, and/or deportation.
• Non-payment of traffic or parking fines may result in travel bans, which means you cannot leave the country until the fines (plus penalties) are paid.
• Using a cellular telephone or texting while driving is illegal.
• Do not turn right on a red light, unless there is a special green arrow sign attached to the stoplight.
• Front seat belts are mandatory.

Public Transportation:

• Only use marked taxis. Fares are given in advance when you order a taxi by phone, but prices are typically negotiated with the driver in advance if hailing a cab in the street.
• Do not sit in the front seat of the taxi, enter a taxi with unknown passengers, or travel to unfamiliar areas.
• Buses and trams are widely used.

See our Road Safety page for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Ukraine’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ukraine’s air carrier operations. You can find further information on the FAA website at the FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Ukraine should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website ( https:homeport.uscg.mil ), and the NGA broadcast warnings website ( http://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal - select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Ukraine . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Coronavirus Information

Updated on September 23 (source: https://covid19.rnbo.gov.ua/)  

Cases: 2,730,425 +7866 / Active cases: 77,168 +5438 / Recovered: 2,237,973 +2305 / Deaths: 55,284+123

ENTERING UKRAINE 

NEW RULES STARTING AUG 18, 2021

All foreign visitors to Ukraine over 18 must have:

• a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to entering the country; OR
• a negative antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to entering the country; OR
• at least one dose of a WHO-approved vaccine (as of June 7: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Janssen, Sinopharm, Sinovac)
• health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment in Ukraine

Unvaccinated foreign visitors must install the Vdoma mobile app and self-isolate for 7 days starting 72 hours after entering the country. If you have a negative PCR or rapid antigen test within 72 hours of entering the country you do not have to self-isolate.

All citizens of Ukraine over 18 who:

• have full of partial vaccination can enter the country without installing the Vdoma app or self-isolating.
• are not vaccinated must install the Vdoma mobile app and self-isolate for 7 days starting 72 hours after entering the country. If you have a negative PCR or rapid antigen test within 72 hours of entering the country you do not have to self-isolate.

Children under the age of 12 do not need a COVID-19 test certificate.

Children ages 12-18 should have a COVID-19 test certificate but do not have to self-isolate.

Travelers who spent more than 7 of the last 14 days in Russia or India must self-isolate for 14 days.  This duration cannot be shortened by taking a PCR or rapid antigen test.

**Go to visitukraine.today/ for more info

MANDATORY HEALTH INSURANCE

Foreigners coming to Ukraine must have health insurance that covers all COVID-19 related treatment and observation for the duration of their stay in Ukraine.

The policy must be issued by

• an insurance company registered in Ukraine; or
• a foreign insurance company with a representative office in Ukraine or a contractual relationship with a partner insurance company in Ukraine.

This requirement does not apply to:

• foreigners and stateless persons permanently residing in Ukraine;
• refugees and persons needing additional protection;
• employees of diplomatic missions and consulates, representative offices of international missions and organizations accredited in Ukraine, members of their families;
• military of NATO member states and Partnership for Peace member states participating in the training of units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Health insurance can be purchased here

VDOMA (ACT AT HOME) MOBILE APP

Citizens of Ukraine who do not arrive with a negative COVID-19 test must self-isolate and install the Vdoma (at Home) mobile app.  Border guards check for the app. If you are unable to install the app, you must go to a designated facility for observation

Starting on August 4-5, unvaccinated Ukrainian citizens and foreign visitors must install the Vdoma mobile app and self-isolate for 7 days starting 72 hours after crossing the border if within that time they do not receive a negative PCR or rapid antigen test.

You can download the app on  App Store https://apps.apple.com/us/app/%D0%B2%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%B0/id1504695512 or Google Play : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ua.gov.diia.quarantine&hl=uk

You have 24 hours after installing the app to arrive at the destination where you plan to self-isolate. The app sends push notifications for selfies confirming your location – you have 20 minutes to do so. Local police are notified if the photo or geolocation do not match, if the app has been uninstalled, or the phone has been turned off.

The app is available in Ukrainian and English.

A Ukrainian SIM card is required to use the app. Contact your airline about purchasing a Ukrainian SIM card.

For questions about the Vdoma app contact the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine .

COVID-19 TESTING

If you take a COVID-19 PCR test at a certified laboratory in Ukraine and receive a negative result you do not have to continue medical observation / self-isolation.

The list of certified labs can be found on the website of the Center of Public Health (CPH) of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine .

In case of a negative result, the labs enters the information into an online platform which syncs with the Dii Vdoma app hourly. Users receive a message on the Dii Vdoma app that they can end self-isolation / observation .

The phone number provided when taking a COVID-19 test must match the number used to install the Dii Vdoma app.

The following is not recommended before taking the test:

24 hours – drinking alcohol 6 hours – using nasal drops or sprays 4 hours – eating, drinking, smoking, gargling, brushing your teeth, chewing gum, candies

AIRPORTS OFFERING COVID-19 TESTING

Kharkiv airport ( HRK )

• Location: Ticket office #20, Terminal A ground floor
• Price: starting at 1,200 UAH
• Hours: 9 am – 11 pm daily
• Payment: cash or card
• Test reform form
• Results in English and Ukrainian
• Contacts: +38 (093) 737-77-56 /  testpcr.airport [@] gmail.com
• More info – https://hrk.aero/en/flying-safely-with-kharkiv-airport/

Kyiv Boryspil airport ( KBP )

• Location: 2nd floor of Terminal D passenger (domestic flight departure area)
• Samples for PCR tests are taken 24/7 by airport medical station personnel and processed by the following labs: Adonis , Medlab , Esculab ,   Universum Clinic , IMMD  
• Results are issued in Ukrainian and English
• Prices are set by each lab (range from 890 to 1400 UAH)
• Rapid testing is also available and takes up to 20 minutes. Prices are set by each lab (range from 750 to 850 UAH)
• Contacts: medical-duty-doctor2 [@] kbp.aero / +38 044-281-72-35 / +38 063-980-67-47
• More info – https://kbp.aero/en/covid-19-general-information/
• https://kbp.aero/en/covid-19-pcr-testing-boryspil-international-airport/

Lviv airport ( LWO )

• Performed by UNILAB
• Price: 1,500 UAH
• Results can be obtained in Ukrainian, Polish or English
• Payment: online at https://www.unilab.com.ua/index.php/ua/covid-19/2-uncategorised/69-coronavirus
• More info: https://www.lwo.aero/en/Covid-19

Odesa airport ( ODS )

• Performed at the airport first aid post by CSD Medical Laboratory 24/7
• Price: 1800 UAH
• Contacts: +380(67)815-6557
• More info:  https://testcovid19.com.ua/odessa

Many airlines have resumed flying to Ukraine, and the number of flights and cities is increasing as summer approaches. Check with your carrier for travel restrictions and changes.

An adaptive quarantine is in effect until December 31, 2021.

Wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth is mandatory on public transportation and in public places. Effective November 21, the fine for not wearing a mask is 170 – 255 UAH (~US$5-$9). People should avoid crowds , stay 1.5 m (5 feet) apart, and wash their hands frequently. Everyone must carry ID .

Ukraine is divided into four epidemiological zones (red, orange, yellow, green) based on the COVID-19 situation. The colors reflect a set of quarantine restrictions .    

"Yellow" (first shot) and "Green" (full vaccination) COVID vaccination certificates are being issued.

As of September 23, 2021 all of Ukraine will be considered a YELLOW ZONE

GREEN zone (national):

• Masks are required in public transport, indoor public premises, mass events
• People should maintain a social distance of 1.5 meters

YELLOW zone (national):

• Mass events: no more than 1 person / 4 sq. m.
• Cinemas and other cultural facilities: no more than 50% seats filled
• Gyms and fitness centers: no more than 1 person / 10 sq. m.
• Schools may remain open if 80% of staff have yellow or green COVID certificates 
• Mass events and public institutions (cinemas, theaters, museums, other cultural institutions, gyms, pools) may remain open if 80% of staff and 100% of visitors have yellow or green COVID certificates

ORANGE zone  (regional):

• Same as yellow zone, but local authorities may introduce additional restrictions

RED zone (regional) - the following are NOT ALLOWED/CLOSED:

• Dining facilities, except for takeaway and delivery
• Malls and other entertainment facilities: cinemas, theaters, etc.
• Schools, except for kindergartens and grades 1-4
• Non-food markets and stores
• Fitness centers, gyms, pools
• Mass events, except for official sporting events and team competitions without spectators
• Cultural institutions, except for historical and cultural preserves
• Movie and video production
• Schools may remain open if 100% of staff have green COVID certificates 
• Mass events (including religious) and public institutions (cinemas, museums, theaters, other cultural institutions, entertainment facilities, malls, dining facilities, markets, gyms, pools) may remain open if 100% of staff, visitors and organizers have green COVID certificates 

VACCINE INFORMATION

Vaccinations as of September 19:

Previous day: 21,118 / Total: 6,291,910 / % of population: ~15%

Ukrainian Government COVID-19 Vaccination website - https://vaccination.covid19.gov.ua/

The United States Government does not plan to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to private U.S. citizens overseas.  U.S. citizens in Ukraine should follow local developments and guidelines.

What to do if you think you have coronavirus while in Ukraine – https://moz.gov.ua/koronavirus-2019-ncov

• If you have signs of an acute respiratory infection (cough, fever, tiredness, etc.) – call your family doctor
• If you or a family member in addition to those symptoms are experiencing trouble breathing, high fever, diarrhea, feeling faint – call the emergency medical dispatch service x103
• The dispatcher will determine whether to send an ambulance
• Air out your premises and put on a mask in preparation of the ambulance’s arrival
• The ambulance workers will assess your condition and decide whether you should to be hospitalized and whether to send someone to administer a COVID-19 test

Ukrainian Ministry of Health COVID-19 24-hour hotline: 0-800-60-20-19

LEAVING UKRAINE

Country-specific entry rules for Ukrainians can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website – https://tripadvisor.mfa.gov.ua/?page_id=1973  and at https://visitukraine.today/departure

Requirements for visas and COVID-19 testing vary by country and change frequently. Check with local authorities before traveling.

Effective January 26, 2021, all aircraft passengers two years of age and older, departing from any foreign country to a destination in the United States, must provide:

• pre-boarding proof of a negative result for SARS-CoV-2 test performed in the past 72 hours and  an attestation  to the veracity of the test, OR
• written or electronic documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the preceding 90 days in the form of a positive viral test result taken within the 90 days preceding the flight and a letter from a licensed health care provider or public health official stating the passenger has been cleared for travel.

The order applies to all travelers including U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, and foreign officials traveling for official purposes with limited exceptions for airline personnel and U.S. military and law enforcement on orders.  For further details and frequently asked questions, please visit the  Centers of Disease Control website .

Air carriers will not board passengers who do not meet these requirements.  Accordingly, travelers to the United States should check with their air carrier or travel representative prior to departure.

Travelers to  Slovakia  from red-zone countries must register online before crossing the border - https://korona.gov.sk/ehranica/    Starting on July 5, border guards will be checking that EU citizens have a digital COVID card. Only Ukrainians with residence permits, their family members, and students are allowed entry to Slovakia. Ukrainians with residence permits in other EU countries are allowed to transit through Slovakia.

Starting July 16-31, Ukrainians traveling to Croatia must have a negativce COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to entry, an express antigen test taken within 48 hours prior to entry, a certificate of full vaccination completed at least 14 days prior to entry, or a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 within 6 months + at least one dose of a vaccine, provided that the person was vaccinated within 210 days prior to crossing the border. The Croatian Border Guard recommends that all travelers register their intention to enter the country on the website of the Croatian Ministry of Internal Affairs https://entercroatia.mup.hr/ More info here

Through July 31, 2021 citizens of Ukraine (under the page of 6) traveling to Turkey must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to entry, an express test taken within 48 hours prior to entry, a certificate of full vaccination completed at least 14 days prior to entry, or a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 within the past 6 months. These documents must be in English. All visitors must also register online within 72 hours prior to entry (and have the generated document in paper or electronic format with them) and have health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment.

Entry of Ukrainian citizens to the Czech Republic is prohibited, with the exception of those who have a residence permit in the Czech Republic or a visa issued by the authorities of the Czech Republic. Citizens of Ukraine who have a residence permit in another EU country - an appropriate plastic card (ATTENTION! A long-term visa is not considered such a permit), are allowed to enter if there is confirmation of the purpose of the trip. Entry in exceptional humanitarian situations (carrying out planned medical examinations or operations, carrying out court decisions, participating in a court hearing, caring for a non-self-sufficient family member, caring for a child, etc.) is allowed if there are supporting documents issued by Czech authorities,

Montenegro - entry allowed without restrictions.

For more coronavirus-related travel information visit:

U.S. Embassy in Ukraine:

• https://ua.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/
• U.S. Embassy Kyiv has temporarily limited routine American Citizen services. Check their website for updates .
• Routine visa services remain suspended until further notice.

Ukrainian government links:

• https://covid19.gov.ua/en
• https://moz.gov.ua/koronavirus-2019-ncov
• https://t.me/s/COVID19_Ukraine
• https://tripadvisor.mfa.gov.ua/?page_id=1973
• https://zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/392-2020-%D0%BF#Text

VISIT UKRAINE - Entry Requirements for Ukraine | Departures from Ukraine

• https://visitukraine.today/ |   https://visitukraine.today/departure

European Union:

• https://reopen.europa.eu/en

IATA Interactive Coronavirus (COVID-19) Travel Regulations Map

• https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/international-travel-document-news/1580226297.htm

Covid Controls 

• https://covidcontrols.co/
• https://kbp.aero/en/
• https://kbp.aero/en/covid-19/
• https://iev.aero/en/
• https://www.lwo.aero/en
• https://hrk.aero/en/
• https://odesa.aero/en/

Airlines –  visit our directory to see which airlines are currently flying to Ukraine

***This is an informational page only.  Check with local authorities and your airline before traveling***

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Foreign Office advises against all travel to Ukraine amid Russia threat

Some airlines had already cancelled flights due to rising tensions, article bookmarked.

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The UK’s Foreign Office has advised against all travel to Ukraine in response to the threat of Russian invasion.

Some airlines cancelled flights over the weekend and diplomatic efforts are being ramped up to avoid conflict.

As of 14 February, the Foreign Office (FCDO) advice reads: “The FCDO advise against all travel to Ukraine.

“Since January 2022, the build-up of Russian forces on Ukraine’s borders has increased the threat of military action.

“Due to the growing threat from Russia , the FCDO has taken the decision to temporarily withdraw some Embassy staff and their dependents from Kyiv. The Embassy remains open but will be unable to provide in-person consular assistance. British nationals should leave while commercial options remain.”

A Foreign Office statement on Friday said: “The safety and security of British nationals is our top priority, which is why we have updated our travel advice. We urge British nationals in Ukraine to leave now via commercial means while they remain available.

“Those British people who choose to remain in Ukraine should keep their departure plans under constant review, and ensure their travel documents are up to date.”

It also warned that “British nationals should not expect consular support or help with evacuating in the event of a Russian military incursion.”

Airlines including Wizz Air and Ryanair have flights into Kiev; according to data website Cirium, there were 3,776 flights scheduled to and from Ukraine during January 2022.

An estimated 130,000 Russian troops are massed on the Ukrainian border at present, with fears of an imminent invasion.

On Thursday, US president Joe Biden urged all American citizens to leave, saying “things could go crazy very quickly”.

Mr Biden also announced plans to airlift some US nationals out of the region in a bid to avoid the chaos seen in Kabul in August.

On Saturday, Dutch carrier KLM cancelled all flights between Amsterdam and the Ukrainian capital until further notice, leaving passengers to find their own flights.

Tim White, a journalist specialising in Ukraine, was booked on the flight .

“Trying to follow UK Govt instructions, managed to bag a place on KLM flight tomorrow for inflated price. Now they tell me it’s ‘disrupted’.

“It’s cancelled, stranding passengers in a war zone. There is an Air France flight but won’t let me rebook.”

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Ukraine crisis: Countries around world urge citizens to leave amid fears Russia could invade 'at any time'

The Foreign Office updates its travel advice for Ukraine as Prime Minister Boris Johnson tells fellow world leaders he "fears for the security of Europe" over the threat of a Russian invasion.

By Greg Heffer, political reporter, and Connor Sephton, news reporter

Saturday 12 February 2022 13:27, UK

British nationals in Ukraine have been warned not to expect a military evacuation and urged to leave "immediately by any means possible" amid fears of a Russian invasion.

The UK and the US have been joined by Japan, Latvia, Norway, the Netherlands, Australia and New Zealand in issuing warnings to citizens who are still in the country.

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Junior defence minister James Heappey told Sky News: "British nationals should leave Ukraine immediately by any means possible and they should not expect, as they saw in the summer with Afghanistan, that there would be any possibility of a military evacuation."

He told the BBC that British troops in Ukraine to train local forces would be leaving this weekend. "All of them will be withdrawn. There will be no British troops in Ukraine if there is to be a conflict there," he said.

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Americans should leave within 48 hours and also should not expect military evacuation if they fail to heed this advice.

As new forces continue to arrive at the Ukrainian border, he added: "If a Russian attack on Ukraine proceeds, it is likely to begin with aerial bombing and missile attacks that could obviously kill civilians without regard to their nationality."

The US has suspended consular services in Kyiv and ordered the departure of most staff. There will be limited embassy presence in Lviv.

More on Russia

Inside Ukraine's new northern frontline

Ukrainian soldiers reveal how they were secretly moved ahead of new Russian invasion

Kharkiv: Ukraine's second city hit by drones during country's longest air raid alert

Related Topics:

A Russian official would only say that staff numbers had been "optimised" at its own embassy.

Many analysts had believed an invasion was unlikely until after the Winter Olympics concludes in China on 20 February - but according to the AP news agency, Washington has picked up intelligence that suggests Moscow is looking at Wednesday as a target date.

Russia wants guarantees from the West, including a promise of no missile deployments near its borders, no NATO membership for Ukraine, and a scaling back of the alliance's military infrastructure.

Although the West has described the Kremlin's main demands as "non-starters", it is prepared to discuss arms control and other confidence-building steps.

The White House has confirmed that Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin will discuss the crisis by phone later today, and it comes as Washington prepares to send an additional 3,000 troops to Poland in the coming days.

'British nationals in Ukraine should leave now'

On Friday evening, the Foreign Office issued updated travel guidance to advise UK citizens "against all travel to Ukraine".

"British nationals in Ukraine should leave now while commercial means are still available," the updated advice added.

"Since January 2022, the build-up of Russian forces on Ukraine's borders has increased the threat of military action.

"Due to this increased threat, the FCDO has taken the decision to further withdraw embassy staff from Kyiv.

"The embassy remains open but will be unable to provide in-person consular assistance. British nationals should leave while commercial options remain."

PM tells allies he 'fears for security of Europe'

In a virtual meeting on Friday evening, the prime minister spoke with the leaders of the US, Italy, Poland, Romania, France, Germany, the EU, and NATO.

"The prime minister told the group that he feared for the security of Europe in the current circumstances," a Downing Street spokesperson said.

"He impressed the need for NATO allies to make it absolutely clear that there will be a heavy package of economic sanctions ready to go, should Russia make the devastating and destructive decision to invade Ukraine.

Read more: What are NATO spy planes doing to keep tabs on the Russians? Analysis - US language hardens as Putin tests Western unity

"The prime minister added that President [Vladimir] Putin had to understand that there would be severe penalties that would be extremely damaging to Russia's economy, and that allies needed to continue with efforts to reinforce and support the Eastern frontiers of NATO.

"He urged the leaders to work together to deliver economic and defensive support to Ukraine."

But the spokesperson added that world leaders had agreed, if Mr Putin "de-escalated", there would be "another way forward" as they "pledged to redouble diplomatic efforts in the coming days".

Russia is currently holding massive war games in Belarus, which borders Russia, Ukraine and Poland.

UK-Russia relations 'above zero'

Earlier in the day, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had continued those diplomatic efforts as he held talks with his Russian counterpart in Moscow.

Mr Wallace described the discussions as "constructive and frank" and said that relations between Russia and Britain were "above zero" following the first meeting between a UK defence minister and Russia's Sergei Shoigu since 2013.

Stressing the need for talks to prevent "miscalculation and escalation", Mr Wallace expressed his hope that Friday's meeting had contributed to a "better atmosphere" between the two sides.

"When they say to me they are not going to invade Ukraine we will take that seriously but, as I also said, we will look at the actions that accompany it," the defence secretary said.

Mr Wallace also agreed with a US assessment that a Russian invasion of Ukraine could happen "at any time", amid the ongoing joint military drills between Russia and Belarus.

"The disposition of the Russian forces that we see - over 100,000 in both Belarus and Ukraine - obviously gives that size of force the ability to do a whole range of actions, including an invasion of a neighbouring country at any time," he said.

His visit to Moscow came a day after Foreign Secretary Liz Truss held frosty talks with her Russian counterpart - with Sergei Lavrov later characterising that meeting as a "conversation between deaf and dumb".

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Mr Wallace added: "We obviously have made it very clear in NATO that an invasion would have tragic consequences and we are here, and I'm here today for example, to seek a way of whatever we can to deescalate that tension.

"I heard clearly from the Russian government that they had no intention of invading Ukraine. And I also heard some of their concerns."

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ukraine - avoid all travel.

Russia launches missile and drone strikes against Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure. These include attacks on city centres and populated areas, including Kyiv. The ongoing Russian invasion poses a significant security risk, even if you are not near the front lines.

If you are in Ukraine, you should consider leaving the country if you can do so safely.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited.

Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Back to top

Russian military invasion

On February 24, 2022, Russia began a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, launching attacks across the country, including in major cities. In addition to military targets, Russia has and continues to attack Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv.

Heavy fighting is ongoing in several areas of the country. Bombardments, explosions and missile launches occur daily. The invasion has directly caused thousands of civilian casualties. There are basic supply shortages and essential services disruptions in areas close to the front lines. Strikes and bombardments could also pose a threat to Ukraine’s nuclear energy infrastructure, notably the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Ukrainian airspace is currently closed. The government of Ukraine has declared a state of emergency and imposed martial law, which gives local authorities broad powers to enforce security measures including:

• security checks
• mandatory evacuation
• prohibition of assembly
• mandatory mobilization

The government of Ukraine decreed a full military mobilization. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, you may be subject to military obligations and will likely be prevented from leaving the country.

Russian military action in Ukraine could further disrupt key infrastructure and transportation routes and limit the provision of essential services throughout the country.

Security conditions remain extremely unstable. Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

If you are in Ukraine, you should follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including air raid warning sirens, curfews and evacuation orders.

If you are near military activity:

• review your personal security plans on a daily basis
• identify the location of the closest bomb shelter
• shelter in a hardened structure away from windows when air raid warning sirens are active

You should leave the country now if you can do so safely. If you choose to stay in Ukraine despite this advisory:

• maintain a supply of basic food, water and medications
• monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
• ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• inform a family member or friend of your whereabouts
• register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Ukraine to do so

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited. You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you are able to leave Ukraine safely:

• verify your destination’s entry requirements regularly
• expect highly congested routes, checkpoints and delays
• make sure to stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• bring sufficient gasoline if you use your car

Territories illegally occupied by Russia

The Russian Federation illegally occupied and annexed Crimea and holds strict control over the area. It also illegally occupies parts of the following oblasts:

• Zaporizhzhia

These areas are heavily militarized and intense fighting is ongoing. There are reports of war crimes and arbitrary detention of foreigners.

Due to the current situation, the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine in Kyiv has extremely limited access to consular clients. The Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow is only accredited to Russia and therefore cannot provide services in territories of Ukraine illegally occupied by Russia.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs, particularly:

• in crowded places
• in tourist areas
• in bars and nightclubs
• on public transportation

In central Kyiv, criminal activity, including mugging, is more prevalent at night.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash

Harassment and assaults can happen against individuals who act or appear as foreigners. Local authorities may not respond to racially motivated violence and harassment.

Violent crime

Armed robbery and violent outbursts can occur, especially in larger cities.

Weapons, including small arms and explosives, are present in all areas of the country. The number and accessibility of available weapons increased following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Criminal activity can be harder to track and is unpredictable because of the war. Violent outbursts rarely target tourists, but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Gender-based violence is on the rise in Ukraine.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault, including rape, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in major cities.

• Avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
• Exercise caution on the street near bars and nightclubs
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations

Women or other survivors of gender-based violence may be discouraged or blocked from reporting aggressors to the authorities. If you are a survivor of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the police and the nearest Canadian office.

Advice for women travellers

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using credit or debit cards.

• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Investment fraud

Unsolicited emails offering enticing business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent. Don’t travel to Ukraine with the intention to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Ukraine, seek legal advice in Canada and in Ukraine. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Scammers often target tourist areas and hotels.

Be aware of street scams. A common scam sees a person dropping a wallet or a bundle of money in front of a tourist, hoping the tourist will pick it up. The scammer then accuses the tourist of stealing some of the money. These scams can involve several criminals, sometimes posing as police officers. Don’t pick up the dropped items if you face this type of behaviour. Simply walk away without engaging in conversation.

Overcharging

Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to inflate your bill or charge you exorbitant prices.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill by the establishment's security guards.

• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering
• Do not leave an open bill
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff
• Check your bill for accuracy before paying

Romance scams

Romance scams on dating sites or through social media have occurred. Be wary of online advertisements offering dating or marriage services in Ukraine. Do your research and verify the legitimacy of services before paying for anything.

• Beware of people who show a keen interest online
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Ukraine to visit someone that you met online
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
• Be mindful of the risk of inviting new acquaintances in your hotel room or apartment

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Demonstrations

Mass gatherings, including demonstrations and protests, are prohibited under martial law.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Following a disaster at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant in 1986, an exclusion zone of 30 km was established by local authorities which includes the cities of Prypiat and Chornobyl. The exclusion zone remains radioactive. Access to this zone is strictly restricted and must be arranged through a specialized tour operator. Anyone visiting Chornobyl must follow the safety instructions issued by the State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management.

Safety instructions  - State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management

Road safety

Travel by road can be hazardous. Drivers do not always respect traffic laws. They may drive at excessive speeds and be reckless. Pedestrians and cyclists should be particularly careful.

Avoid driving at night outside major cities. Limited road visibility, poor vehicle maintenance and intoxicated drivers pose hazards.

While roadside services such as repair facilities exist, they are frequently inadequate.

Road conditions

Most roads outside major cities are poorly maintained. Some roads and bridges may be unusable or damaged by fighting from the Russian military invasion. Drivers experiencing elevated stress and fatigue due to road damage and unpredictable conditions may be aggressive or confrontational. Ensure that your vehicle doors are locked and windows are closed at all times

Public transportation

Kyiv has a reliable metro system. Buses, however, are usually overcrowded and in poor condition.

Public transportation services and infrastructure across the country are susceptible to short- and long-term interruptions due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

At public transportation hubs, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth within the arrivals terminal or use a trusted ride-sharing app. Do the same in the city instead of hailing a taxi on the street. Negotiate fares in advance to avoid excessive fares.

There is a risk of robbery and muggings on trains, particularly in overnight sleeper cars

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Store personal belongings and travel documents in a safe place
• Don’t leave the compartment unattended
• Ensure that the door is secured from the inside

Ukrainian airspace is closed.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ukrainian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Ukraine.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Work permit: required

If you intend to stay in Ukraine for more than 90 days, you must obtain a visa prior to entering the country. For further details on visas and work permits, please contact the Embassy of Ukraine to Canada.

You must have an invitation from a Ukrainian company or individual if travelling to Ukraine for any other purpose than tourism. Before you travel, contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy for more information about the invitation process.

• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Ukrainian visa information - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Other entry requirements

Immigration officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Ukraine.

Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts

Areas of Ukraine illegally occupied by Russia are active combat zones and all designated checkpoints for entry and exit to these areas are closed.

Ukrainian authorities will refuse entry to foreigners who attempt to enter Ukraine from Russia through Crimea or areas in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts illegally occupied by Russia. You may be subject to arrest and detention for questioning to verify your identity. Entry to Ukraine from illegally occupied areas may be possible via specially organized humanitarian corridors or as a refugee.

Children and travel

• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care standards vary throughout the country. Facilities are limited outside major cities, even in private institutions. Doctors and nurses may not be able to communicate in English (or French) and not all hospitals have translation services available.

The Russian military invasion may disrupt access to medical services and the capabilities of medical facilities. Supply chains may face constraints, leading to shortages for medical products and medication. Hospitals and clinics may face staff shortages. Frequent power outages may impact the ability of medical facilities to properly sterilise their equipment and spaces.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

Local police may ask to see your passport and visa at any time.

• Carry adequate identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport in a safe place, in case of loss or seizure
• Always cooperate with local authorities and be aware that they could detain you while your identification documents are being verified

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Don’t take pictures of military installations, including mobile or temporary defense equipment or other government buildings. This includes drones flying overhead, air defenses, downed aircraft and drones/missiles as well as damaged or derelict military equipment.

You should be careful when uploading photos or video to social media to ensure that no prohibited buildings or equipment appear in your content, even in the background. You could face arrest and jail time if you take or upload photos or videos with prohibited content visible.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Ukraine.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

You may be considered a citizen of Ukraine if you were born in Ukraine or if one or both of your parents are Ukrainian citizens.

Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion, males between 18 and 60 years of age holding Ukrainian citizenship are prohibited from leaving the country.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Mandatory military service (mobilization)

Ukraine has mandatory military service for males over the age of 18. Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion, Ukrainian men between 18 and 60 years may be subject to mobilization

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ukraine.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ukraine, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Ukrainian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ukraine to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Surrogacy and adoption

If you plan to visit Ukraine despite this advisory for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy or adoption arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Ukrainian and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.

The Russian military invasion of Ukraine has increased the risk of dangerous complications from childbirth. It has also changed legal and social opinions on international surrogacy and adoption. Attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure could disrupt medical services. Supply chain disruptions could limit the availability of essential medical supplies. You should consider the risk to your safety and the safety of a newborn before travelling to Ukraine.

You should consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on current policies regarding citizenship through descent, as well as on the issuance of Canadian travel documents.

Ukraine has strict laws on adoption, including criteria for prospective adopters. These laws may be different for Canadians holding Ukrainian citizenship.

The Embassy of Canada to Ukraine can’t provide recommendations on the selection of surrogacy or adoption agencies.

International adoption – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence must accredit all travel to Ukraine for media projects. You should consult the Ministry of Defence before you arrive in Ukraine to confirm their advice and regulations.

• How to submit media queries – Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
• Recommendations for media – Armed Forces of Ukraine

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Ukrainian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Despite large and active 2SLGBTQI+ communities in major urban centres, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Ukrainian society. Avoid public displays of affection.

Expect a heavy police presence at Pride parades and certain 2SLGBTQI+ events. Counter-protests and violence are possible. Have a plan for safely exiting the area when participating in Pride parades or other 2SLGBTQI+ events.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit

Car insurance is mandatory.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH).

There is a withdrawal limit at banks and ATMs following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and licensed exchange booths.

Upon entering or leaving Ukraine, you must make a declaration to customs if you have €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies. Undeclared amounts exceeding the equivalent of €10,000 may be seized.

There are strict customs regulations and procedures regarding the export of antiquities and items of historical interest. It is prohibited to export antiques, works of art, historical treasures and other similar items without a special permit from the Ukrainian Ministry of Culture.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Ukraine. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Brush and forest fires are common in eastern and southern Ukraine in July and August. In case of a major fire, stay away from the affected area. Air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

• Always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• Monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Flooding occurs in western Ukraine during the spring thaw and following sustained heavy rains. This may cause damage to roads and infrastructure. Plan your route carefully.

There is significant damage to Ukraine’s civil infrastructure due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In 2023, dams faced attacks and sustained damages. Certain dams were destroyed, including the Nova Kakhovka dam in Kherson.

Following the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam, many towns and settlements in Kherson, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia face long-term impacts from flooding. Unexploded ordnance flowed downriver and into flooded areas. Local authorities have issued boil-water advisories in certain areas due to the risk of water-borne illness.

There are severe disruptions to essential services. Many roads in the area are impassable or closed.

If you are in Kherson Oblast:

• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local news and weather reports
• use only bottled water for drinking and cooking

Snow and Ice Storms

In winter, avalanches, heavy snow and freezing rain pose a risk. They can make roads impassable and can cause power disruptions. These conditions can affect access to isolated areas, including to some tourist resorts. The conditions can also limit the ability of first responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101
• general emergencies: 112 (from cell phones only)

Consular assistance

If you are in Ukraine and require consular assistance:

• email: [email protected] or
• contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa, at any time

You should also register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict.

Ukraine (PDF 447.96 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Medical emergencies, general (mobile phones only), advice levels.

Do not travel to Ukraine.

Do not travel to Ukraine, including Crimea and the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. 

See  Safety

We continue to advise do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. If you're currently in Ukraine, we urge you to depart if it's safe to do so.

• Russia has launched intensified attacks against Ukraine's civilian and government infrastructure; attacks are ongoing. Russian strikes in Ukraine pose a continued threat to civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russian actions also pose a threat to Ukraine's active nuclear power plants, with particular concern for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
• The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Several towns and cities in southern and eastern Ukraine are temporarily under Russian control. The security situation continues to be volatile. Heavy fighting is occurring in parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in some locations across the country, including in major cities. Rocket, drone, and missile attacks have struck infrastructure and military facilities.
• There have been civilian casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat. Do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. There is a risk to life. For more information on what to do if you're caught in armed conflict, see our general advice: ' There's an armed conflict '.
• A nationwide state of emergency is in place, and martial law has been imposed. Other local restrictions may be implemented with little warning. Check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary from region to region and follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections. Carry identification with you at all times.
• If you hear a loud explosion or sirens are activated, seek shelter in a hardened structure away from windows. In some cities, subway stations may be available as shelters. Ensure you have an adequate supply of basic food, water and medications. Have a list of emergency contacts on you. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Follow the advice of Ukrainian authorities and avoid areas where military forces are gathered. Continue to monitor advice on Smartraveller and reputable local and international media about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place.
• Where it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. You need to carefully consider the safest departure options. Make contingency plans for how and when you're going to leave Ukraine. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or be damaged. Confirm the entry requirements of the  destination  to which you are travelling. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. Keep your travel documents up to date, including for your immediate family. Continue to review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 
• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia. Contact your family and friends, so they're aware of your location and situation. Keep them up to date with your travel plans. Don't wait. Communication infrastructure may become damaged or blocked, and cyber-attacks have occurred. Russian military action could disrupt essential services, including banks, transport, and communications.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.
• Infectious diseases include polio, tuberculosis, measles, diphtheria, hepatitis, and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. If an animal bites or scratches you, get immediate medical help.
• Chernobyl remains radioactive.
• Outside major cities, the standard of state medical facilities is low. There are frequent shortages of medical supplies. Russian military action could disrupt access to essential services, including healthcare.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry your passport. Local police or military may ask to see your passport and visa.
• Ukrainian males (including Australian/Ukrainian dual nationals) from 18 to 60 years of age are being stopped from leaving Ukraine.
• Ukraine doesn't recognise dual nationality. We may not be able to help you if you have Ukrainian nationality. Under Ukrainian law, you may be a Ukrainian citizen if you were born in Ukraine or have a parent born in Ukraine.
• Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular and passport assistance to Australians. The Australian Embassy in Kyiv has temporarily relocated to Warsaw, Poland. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. The Australian Government can't evacuate you from Ukraine. 
• Do not enter into surrogacy arrangements. Due to the Russian invasion, the security situation continues to be volatile and could deteriorate suddenly (see ' Safety '). If, despite our advice, you take part in commercial surrogacy arrangements, you'll need to travel to the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate, at your own expense, to obtain a travel document for your child. Your child must stay in Ukraine with appropriate care at your expense while you obtain the appropriate travel documents. The Australian Government can't evacuate you or your child from Ukraine.
• Australian law prohibits Australian citizens, residents, and holders of Australian visas from engaging in hostile activities overseas unless they are serving in the armed forces of a foreign country. If you travel to Ukraine to fight with a non-government armed group on either side of the conflict – or recruit another person to do so (including inducing, inciting or encouraging) – your activities may amount to criminal offences. Russian proxies have given foreign nationals death sentences for engaging in the war in Ukraine.
• Same-sex activity is legal in Ukraine, but local attitudes are less tolerant than in Australia. Violence has occurred at some gay pride events and gay venues in Ukraine.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• The security situation continues to be volatile. A nationwide state of emergency is in place. Other local restrictions may be implemented with little warning. Check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary from region to region and follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections.  
• When it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. You need to have a plan for how and when you're going to leave. Remain alert as conditions could change with little warning. 
• Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Ukraine airspace is closed. Some roads may be crowded, exposed to military activity or damaged. Other transport options in Ukraine may close at short notice.
• New restrictions or changes to entry requirements for other destinations could be imposed suddenly. See ' Full advice - Travel ' for information on Ukraine border regions, land border crossing wait times and rules on border crossing points. 
• Plan for delays at land border crossings. Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 
• Ensure your registration, ownership, insurance, and Green Card are in order for border crossings. Carry identification with you at all times and communicate with family and friends about your travel plans. Expect delays on roads and disruptions to services, including communications and transport. Be prepared for weather conditions.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.
• Our embassy is temporarily operating from Warsaw, Poland. 
• Our ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is severely limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine. 
• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• See the  Ukraine page  on the Department of Home Affairs website for Australian visa enquiries.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

Russia has launched intensified attacks against Ukraine's civilian and Government infrastructure. Attacks are ongoing. Russian strikes in Ukraine pose a continued threat to civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russian actions also pose a threat to Ukraine's active nuclear power plants, with particular concern for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Several towns and cities in southern and eastern Ukraine are temporarily under Russian control. The security situation continues to be volatile. Heavy fighting is occurring in some areas of Ukraine. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in various locations across the country, including in major cities. Rocket, drone, and missile attacks have struck infrastructure and civilian and military facilities. There have been many casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat. Do not travel to Ukraine. There is a risk to life.

The US Government issued travel advice reporting US citizens being singled out and detained by the Russian military in Ukraine. This may occur when citizens are forcibly deported or evacuated by land through temporarily Russian-occupied territory or to Russia.

A nationwide state of emergency is in place. Other local restrictions may be implemented with little warning. Check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary from region to region and follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections.

If you hear a loud explosion or sirens are activated, seek shelter in a hardened structure away from windows. Subway stations may be available as shelters. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Ensure you have an adequate supply of basic food, water and medications. Have a list of emergency contacts on you and screenshot any online content you may need to refer to in case of a communications or digital blackout. Review your personal security plans. Continue to monitor advice on Smartraveller and reputable local and international media about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place.

When it's safe to do so, you should leave Ukraine. Carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Large amounts of unexploded ordnance and landmines are present in conflict and post-conflict areas. Follow the advice of local authorities about where these areas are and avoid them.

Communication infrastructure may become damaged or blocked, and cyber-attacks have occurred. Contact your family and friends to let them know your travel plans and where and how you are. 

Australians in need of consular assistance should call the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Leaving Ukraine

Where it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Transport routes may be disrupted. Ukrainian airspace is closed. 

Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel.

Continue to read the travel advice of your destination to make sure you meet the entry requirements, as these may differ when entering by road or rail. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 

For more information on entry requirements for countries bordering Ukraine, read the travel advice:

• Russia (Do Not Travel)
• Belarus (Do Not Travel)

In most cases, Australians departing Ukraine must present a valid Australian passport.

Consular assistance

If you need consular assistance or you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians, and you should not expect increased consular support. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine. Subscribe and follow the advice on the  Smartraveller website  and  social media .

If, despite our advice, you remain in Ukraine:

• follow the advice of Ukrainian authorities.
• keep your passport and other travel documentation safe.
• contact your friends and family in Australia so they’re aware of your location, situation and any travel plans.
• make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it’s safe to do so.
• stay in a safe place and limit your movements. Ensure you have supplies of food, water, batteries, money and other essentials.
• adopt effective personal security measures. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• shelter in a hardened structure, and stay away from windows. Identify the location of the closest bomb shelter.
• keep up to date with developments on the security situation. Monitor reputable local and international media. Regularly check our travel advice.
• avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in Ukraine continues to be volatile. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Large demonstrations took place in Kyiv before Russia's full-scale invasion around the Maidan Nezalezhnosti, St Michael's Square, outside the Presidential Administration, Parliament and other government offices.

Civil unrest can cause road closures and disrupt local transport.

Political unrest can occur in Ukraine without warning. Actions include occupying public areas and government buildings or blockages of roads by large groups of people.

Be aware of protests from November to March to mark the anniversaries of the Maidan Revolution.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid large gatherings
• check local media
• follow advice from Ukrainian authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Ukraine, they can still happen.

Terrorists have staged attacks in European cities in recent years. Targets include:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• places foreigners visit

European security services have disrupted some planned attacks.

Be alert in public places, including

• shopping areas
• places of worship
• sporting venues
• airports and other transport hubs
• places where people gather

To stay safe:

• be wary in places known to be possible targets
• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of Ukrainian authorities

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe.

Assassinations involving gun or car-bomb attacks have occurred in Ukraine in recent years. These attacks have targeted specific people but can be a danger to the public.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Petty crime

Serious crime targeting foreigners isn't frequent.

Robberies , pickpocketing and bag snatching occur:

• on public transport
• at crowded markets
• in popular tourist areas
• in bars and nightclubs

Street crime and muggings increase at night.

To protect yourself from crime:

• pay close attention to your belongings
• carry only what you need
• leave valuables in a safe location
• take extra care at night

Cases of drink spiking have been followed by robbery. To reduce your risk:

• don't accept food or drinks from anyone you don't know
• never leave food or drinks unattended

Be careful with your credit card.  Scams  such as card skimming and those related to using ATMs occur.

Street scams are very common. Criminals often target foreigners.

Beware of bogus internet friendships, dating and marriage schemes from Ukraine.

If a virtual friendship develops, you may be asked by your new friend or prospective partner to send money so they can travel to Australia or pay bills. In some cases, the relationship ends with very little chance that any money can be recovered.

Be wary of any dating or marriage proposals from people you meet online.

Online scammers may also claim to be stuck at a Ukrainian hospital, airport or an isolated place and need money to leave. They will often reference the ongoing military conflict in Ukraine. They regularly make false claims about being Australian citizens. 

We can't offer advice on specific schemes.

To avoid scams:

• use ATMs in banks and reputable international hotels
• avoid ATMs that open onto the street, especially at night
• always keep your credit card in sight
• be wary of anyone asking for bank account details or personal data
• be wary of people you meet online who then begin asking for money

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. There is an increased risk in Ukraine. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

Cyber attacks

In December 2023, there was a major cyber attack on Ukrainian networks. Ukraine's largest mobile network provider was affected, leaving millions of users without a mobile signal or the ability to use the internet. It also disrupted air raid apps, some banks and ATMs.

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information: 

Kidnapping  

Climate and natural disasters

If you're visiting an area recently affected by  severe weather :

• confirm your plans with your tour operator
• check conditions with local tour operators and hotels

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Ukraine. Do not travel to Ukraine. See ' Safety '

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Ukraine. If, despite our advice, you travel to Ukraine, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical or mental health condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Ukraine. Take enough legal medicine for your trip, plus a contingency supply owing to the volatile security situation in Ukraine.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 
• Medication  

Health risks

Tick-borne encephalitis.

Tick-borne diseases, including  tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organization), are a risk in forested areas.

Ticks are common from spring to autumn.

To protect yourself from disease:

• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Check your body for ticks during and after visiting forests.

Remove ticks from your body as soon as you can.

Measles cases can routinely occur in Ukraine, with the country currently experiencing an increase in measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before travelling.

• Measles Outbreaks 2019  (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Measles immunisation service  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

HIV/AIDS  is a risk for travellers.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Ukraine’s last reported outbreak of  polio  was in October 2021. The outbreak was officially closed by the World Health Organization in September 2023. Due to low vaccination rates in Ukraine, polio poses a serious risk to young children.

Check your  polio  (World Health Organization) vaccinations are up to date before you travel. You may need a booster dose.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If an animal bites or scratches you, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Radiation poisoning

A catastrophic nuclear accident occurred at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant in 1986. It spread radioactive material across northern Ukraine and beyond. Radioactivity remains a risk in and around the plant.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of state medical facilities is low outside major cities, such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa and Lviv. There are frequent shortages of medical supplies.  Russian military action could disrupt access to essential services, including healthcare.

Private healthcare services are of a better standard. You'll need to guarantee payment before they'll treat you.

Medical staff outside of major centres often do not speak English, except in private clinics. Reports, prescriptions and other documents won't be in English.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Ukrainian males (including Australian/Ukrainian dual nationals) from 18 to 60 years of age are being stopped from leaving Ukraine. Military conscription is occurring.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for being caught in possession of drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Always carry your passport.

Local police may stop foreigners and ask them to see their passports and visas.

Do not enter into surrogacy arrangements. Due to the Russian invasion, the security situation continues to be volatile and could deteriorate suddenly. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in some locations across the country, including in major cities. There's a risk to life.

Some surrogacy agencies have been prevented from fulfilling their contractual obligations since Russia's invasion, causing a significant increase in costs for the intended parents. Ukrainian Government agencies may take longer than you expect to issue documents. 

If, despite our advice, you take part in commercial surrogacy arrangements, the Australian Government can't evacuate you or your child from Ukraine. Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular and passport assistance to Australians. Our embassy has temporarily relocated to Poland. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. 

You may need to spend time in Ukraine before and after the birth. You will need to travel to the nearest Australian embassy or consulate, at your own expense and risk, to obtain a travel document for your child. Your child must stay in Ukraine with appropriate care at your expense while you obtain the appropriate travel documents. Be aware of all legal and other risks involved.

Surrogacy is regulated by Ukrainian law. Get independent legal advice. 

The Australian embassy can't provide the following:

• legal advice about surrogacy
• information on clinics.

If, despite our advice, you choose to enter Ukraine, make sure you have up-to-date visas and passports. Subscribe and follow the advice on the  Smartraveller website  and  social media .

You need to carefully consider the risks when entering and departing Ukraine. Any travel options you pursue are at your own risk. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. The Australian Government can't advise on the safety of travelling to departure points.

If you're in Ukraine, make sure you have plans to leave Ukraine as soon as it's safe to do so. If your departure plan involves a vehicle, see ' Local Travel '.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Australian laws

Australian law prohibits Australian citizens, residents, and holders of Australian visas from engaging in hostile activities overseas unless they are serving in the armed forces of a foreign country. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat.

Do not travel to Ukraine. There is a risk to life. If, despite our advice, you travel to Ukraine to fight with a non-government armed group on either side of the conflict – or recruit another person to do so (including inducing, inciting or encouraging) – your activities may be criminal offences. Russian proxies have given foreign nationals death sentences in the Donetsk region for engaging in the war in Ukraine.

Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular and passport assistance to Australians. Our embassy is temporarily closed, and officials have relocated to Warsaw, Poland. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is severely limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Ukraine doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Under Ukrainian law, you may be a Ukrainian national if you were either:

• born in Ukraine, or
• have a parent born in Ukraine.

We may be unable to help you if you're in Ukraine and have Ukrainian nationality.

Male citizens over 18 years may be conscripted.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that you won't be granted a tourist visa if you're considered to be a Ukrainian national.

Speak to the  embassy or consulate of Ukraine  before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Ukraine. However, public attitudes are less tolerant than in Australia.

Violence has occurred at some LGBTI pride events and venues in Ukraine.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

We continue to advise do not travel to Ukraine.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

If, despite our advice, you travel to Ukraine, you can enter without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within 180 days.

To apply for temporary, long-term or permanent residency, contact the  State Migration Service of Ukraine .

Border measures

Entry requirements are subject to frequent change. 

You must have valid health insurance to enter Ukraine. Check the  Visit Ukraine  website before travelling.

Border issues

You need to carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Roads, including bridges and facilities, may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice.

Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. If you judge it's safe to leave Ukraine and travel by road, check the entry requirements for where you travel, such as  Poland ,  Romania ,  Moldova ,  Slovakia  and  Hungary , for more information. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 

If you judge it's safe to leave Ukraine, see the following websites on land border crossing wait times and rules on border crossing points: 

• Waiting time at cross-border points
• Visit Ukraine
• State Border Guard Service of Ukraine

Other formalities

Contact an  embassy or consulate of Ukraine  for updates on how much cash you can take in and out of the country and what you must declare at customs on arrival and departure. If you take more cash than is allowed, officials may confiscate it.

Undeclared items may be confiscated.

Customs rules control the export of:

• items of historical significance

Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Ukraine  for details on import and export conditions.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• in Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service
• if you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate  
• With the Australian Embassy working temporarily from Warsaw, Poland, obtaining a replacement passport is not straightforward, and you should expect delays.  

Ukrainian citizens aged under 16 years need consent from both parents to leave Ukraine unaccompanied. This includes dual nationals. See  Local laws

• Advice for people travelling with children

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH).

ATMs are available, and credit cards are widely used in cities. However, as a result of the current invasion of Ukraine by Russia, ATMs might not be refilled with cash, and some bank cards might not be accepted. During power cuts, ATMs and card terminals may not work.

Outside major cities, carry enough cash in local currency.

There's a risk that cyber attacks could disrupt mobile, internet and banking services.

Local travel

Mh17 crash site.

On 17 July 2014, Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down near Hrabovo in the Russian-controlled part of Donetsk province.

Investigations into the crash have been suspended.

Do not travel to this area due to ongoing armed conflict in the surrounding vicinity.

Driving permit

You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Ukraine. 

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

When you drive, you must carry the following:

• original vehicle registration papers
• ownership documents
• insurance papers

You'll need to show them at border crossings or if stopped by police. This includes rental vehicles.

When crossing a border in a private vehicle, you'll need to carry a Green Card to prove you have the minimum insurance required by the country you're driving in. You may be able to obtain a Green Card at the insurance company offices at some border crossings, or you should contact your insurance provider. 

Read more information from the  Ukrainian Government on border crossing  or call the SBGSU Hotline on 1598 from a Ukrainian mobile.

If you decide to leave Ukraine by road, check the travel advice on  Smartraveller  for the safety risks and entry requirements of the country you're entering.

Road travel

Driving in Ukraine can be dangerous. Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged; this extends to bridges and facilities. See ' Safety '.

Hazards include:

• poorly lit and maintained roads
• aggressive or speeding drivers
• drivers who ignore road rules
• drunk drivers
• ice and snow
• unsafe vehicles on rural roads.

It's common to park on footpaths.

Driving with a blood alcohol reading above 0% is illegal.

Check your travel insurance covers you before driving in Ukraine.

Don't expect vehicles to stop for you or to follow road rules.

• Driving or riding

Use official taxis or services such as Uber, Bolt or Uklon.

Agree on the fare before getting in the taxi.

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers you before riding a motorcycle, or electric scooter.

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses can be crowded, particularly around public holidays and peak commuting times.

They may not meet safety standards.

• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

Watch your belongings on trains.

Don't agree to look after anyone else's luggage or store it in your compartment.

• Ukrainian Railways

Commercial flights are not operating within Ukraine due to Russia’s ongoing invasion.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Ukraine's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

In February 2022, the Australian Government directed the departure of Australian Embassy staff from Ukraine due to the volatile security situation. All staff have departed. Our Embassy has temporarily relocated to Warsaw, Poland.

Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia.

Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians. It will not always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you, and Australians should not expect increased consular support. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine.

For all visa enquiries, see the  Ukraine page  on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Australian Embassy Ukraine  (temporarily operating from Warsaw, Poland)

Email for consular assistance:  [email protected]

Website:  ukraine.embassy.gov.au

X:  @AUinUA

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Russia-Ukraine war: ‘Don’t worry,’ EU foreign affairs chief tells Ukrainians as ministers focus on Middle East – as it happened

‘Looking for a solution in the Middle East doesn’t mean that we are not continuing supporting Ukraine,’ says Josep Borrell

• 22 Jan 2024 Summary of the day
• 22 Jan 2024 Critics of Ukraine war could have property seized under new Russian law
• 22 Jan 2024 UK updates travel advice for Ukraine
• 22 Jan 2024 'Very productive talks' with Poland's Tusk, Zelenskiy says
• 22 Jan 2024 Tusk underlines 'spirit of friendship' to resolve differences with Ukraine
• 22 Jan 2024 Kyiv needs 'faster' support, Borrell says
• 22 Jan 2024 Stopping Russia will get more expensive later, Latvian minister says
• 22 Jan 2024 Zelenskiy proposes changing Ukrainian citizenship rules
• 22 Jan 2024 'Don't worry,' EU foreign affairs chief tells Ukrainians as ministers focus on Middle East
• 22 Jan 2024 Opening summary

'Don't worry,' EU foreign affairs chief tells Ukrainians as ministers focus on Middle East

Arriving at the foreign affairs’ meeting this morning in Brussels, EU foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said: “The fact that we are engaged [in] looking for a solution in the Middle East doesn’t mean that we are not continuing supporting Ukraine .”

Ukraine’s foreign minister is expected to speak at today’s session via videoconference.

Don’t worry, don’t worry, Ukrainians have not to worry – European support continues as stronger as ever, and it will continue.

Summary of the day

Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy , said he had “very productive talks” with Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk , who visited Kyiv today. The Ukrainian leader said the two countries would be able to resolve problematic issues.

Tusk underlined that Warsaw and Kyiv would work in a spirit of friendship to resolve differences.

Denys Shmyhal , Ukraine’s prime minister, said that he “discussed the free movement of goods across the border” with Tusk and that the sides agreed to resume intergovernmental consultations.

EU foreign ministers discussed support to Ukraine .

With ministers focusing much of their attention today on the situation in the Middle East, the bloc’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell , insisted that Ukrainians should not worry and that the EU’s support for Kyiv would continue as strong as ever.

Borrell also said Ukraine “needs more and faster military support now”.

Latvia’s foreign minister, Krišjānis Kariņš , said that “if we do not help Ukraine stop Russia now, it will be only all the more expensive for us later”.

Elina Valtonen , Finland’s foreign minister, said there’s a need to fulfil Ukraine’s immediate defence needs, but that Europe also needs to ramp up its defence industry and capabilities.

Zelenskiy announced a proposal aimed at granting ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants Ukrainian citizenship.

There is movement toward a meeting between Zelenskiy and Hungary’s prime minister, Viktor Orbán , a senior Ukrainian official said.

The UK updated its travel advice “to advise against all but essential travel” to the regions of Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil, Chernivtsi in western Ukraine. Previously, there was advice against all travel to the whole of Ukraine.

The UK has provided satellite photographs of North Korean cargo shipments to Russia to a panel of UN experts.

The Kremlin has drawn up a bill to confiscate property and valuables from Ukraine war critics convicted of, among other crimes, “discrediting the Russian army” or calling for foreign sanctions.

Denys Shmyhal , Ukraine’s prime minister, said that he “discussed the free movement of goods across the border, the development of border infrastructure and energy cooperation” with Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk .

“We agreed to resume intergovernmental consultations,” he said.

Productive meeting with 🇵🇱 PM @donaldtusk . We discussed the free movement of goods across the border, the development of border infrastructure and energy cooperation. We agreed to resume intergovernmental consultations. Grateful for the support for Ukraine's intentions to become… pic.twitter.com/bP5ZxAJ8Id — Denys Shmyhal (@Denys_Shmyhal) January 22, 2024

Critics of Ukraine war could have property seized under new Russian law

A bill to confiscate property and valuables from Ukraine war critics convicted of, among other crimes, “discrediting the Russian army” or calling for foreign sanctions, has been drawn up by the Kremlin.

The draft legislation to the Russian criminal code was registered in Russia’s State Duma on Monday, where it has been backed by all of Russia’s main political parties and appears likely to pass into law.

The bill aims to allow the Russian government to seize money and property used or intended to finance illegal activity or that which is believed to threaten Russia’s security, as determined by a court order.

It would also allow law enforcement to seize honorariums received by journalists or researchers convicted of writing “fake information” about the invasion of Ukraine , or to seize other more valuable property including cars or flats as a substitute, lawyers said.

Read more here

Rustem Umerov , Ukraine’s defence minister, said he spoke with his Belgian counterpart, Ludivine Dedonder .

Grateful for Belgium’s participation in the air force capability coalition, particularly in the pilot training programme. Highly appreciate Belgium’s unwavering support for Ukraine. Belgium will provide €611m in military aid this year and has a long-term commitment to supporting the modernisation of our defence forces.

Had a productive phone call with the Minister of Defence of Belgium, Ludivine Dedonder @DedonderLudivin . Discussed the recent developments on the front lines and the prospects of defence cooperation between our countries. Grateful for Belgium’s participation in the air force… pic.twitter.com/eVDwEM5lff — Rustem Umerov (@rustem_umerov) January 22, 2024

UK updates travel advice for Ukraine

The UK has updated its travel advice for parts of Ukraine “following a change in the risk assessment on the ground”.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office travel advice has been updated to advise against all but essential travel to the regions, known as oblasts, of Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil, Chernivtsi in western Ukraine. This is a change from the previous advice against all travel to the whole of Ukraine.

Tusk underlines 'spirit of friendship' to resolve differences with Ukraine

In Kyiv, Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk , said that there was nothing more important than supporting Ukraine in its war effort against Russia.

Tusk also underlined that while there were “some conflicts of interest”, the sides would work “in a spirit of friendship to resolve any differences as quickly as possible”, according to his office.

Kyiv needs 'faster' support, Borrell says

As EU foreign ministers meet in Brussels, the bloc’s high representative for foreign affairs, Josep Borrell , said that “Ukraine needs more and faster military support now”.

We start today’s Foreign Affairs Council #FAC with FM @dmytrokuleba connected via VTC to discuss the situation on the ground and the EU’s continued support to #Ukraine . Ukraine needs more and faster military support now, so 2024 becomes the year Ukraine prevails. pic.twitter.com/L8RYO6dLXv — Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) January 22, 2024

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Urgent warning for Brits NOT to visit 24 countries after Foreign Office travel notice – map reveals world’s no-go areas

• Jessica Baker , Foreign News Reporter
• Published : 10:56, 10 May 2024
• Updated : 15:53, 10 May 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

THERE are now 24 countries off-limits to UK holidaymakers as the Foreign Office warns travellers may be detained - or worse.

Eight destinations have this year been added to the list of places deemed "too dangerous" for Brits.

Brits' travel insurance may not be valid if they visit a destination against the UK government's advice - and consular support can be "severely limited" as some countries do not have a British Embassy.

The Foreign Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to places including Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Haiti, Iran , Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, and Niger.

But travel to North Korea, Gaza, Russia , Somalia, Somaliland, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine , Venezuela, and Yemen is also banned.

Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Sudan, Lebanon, Israel, Belarus, and Gaza were all added to the list of no-go zones this year.

British and British-Iranian dual nationals are at "significant risk" of arbitrary arrest, questioning, or detention in Iran, said the FCDO.

The Foreign Office stated: "Holding a British passport can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to question you.

"If you are detained in Iran, you could face months or years in prison."

EASTERN EUROPE

The Foreign Office advises Brits against all travel to Russia due to the risks and threats associated with its invasion of Ukraine, which include security incidents such as drone attacks and "explosions".

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The FCDO said: "There is also a high likelihood that terrorists will try to carry out attacks, including in major cities."

All travel to most of Ukraine is also banned, as Russian missile and drone attacks continue to cause significant damage to residential areas, injuring and killing civilians.

Brits must also avoid travelling to Belarus, where Russian military operations are taking place, as there is "some risk" that direct conflict linked to the war in Ukraine may spread to the country.

MIDDLE EAST

Warnings against travelling to all parts of Israel, Lebanon, and Gaza come amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Palestinian militant group Hamas unleashed terror on southern Israel on October 7 last year, killing some 1,200 people and dragging 250 hostages back to the besieged enclave of Gaza.

Israel is now preparing to launch a full-scale invasion into the already-battered Palestinian city of Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip, to wipe out the Hamas militants which it claims are hiding there.

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Hamas continues to launch rockets into Israel.

The Foreign Office stated: "There are continued exchanges of rocket and small arms fire over Israel’s northern border with Lebanon and a potential increase in rocket attacks and other incidents of violence across Israel and the OPTs (Occupied Palestinian Territories), including the West Bank."

It added that the "fast-moving situation" poses significant risks and has the potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning.

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All travel to Sudan is effectively forbidden to Brits due to ongoing military conflict.

The FCDO noted the UK is no longer evacuating people from Sudan and cannot offer advice on the safety of travelling to any potential departure point, stating: "Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk."

Brits who travel to other banned countries face threats to their security and lives.

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Travel in Afghanistan is "extremely dangerous" and British nationals face a "heightened risk of being detained", which could lead to them being imprisoned for months or years.

There is no British Embassy in the country, so the FCDO cannot give help in person and the British government may not be informed if a Brit is arrested.

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Is it safe to travel to Poland because of the war in Ukraine?

A stray missile landed in poland near the border with ukraine and two people were killed as a result.

E urope is currently facing a crisis with monumental consequences. While Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has put questions of defence and energy security on everyone’s lips, it is also having an effect on travel.

After the tragedy of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, shot down over eastern Ukraine in 2014, commercial airlines are taking no risks in flying over conflict zones, leading to longer journeys, especially from Asia. But even on routes that go nowhere near the region, fuel costs are rising because of the huge increase in the price of oil driven by the conflict.

On November 15, a missile struck eastern Poland and killed two people. It’s an escalation that saw Nato leaders scramble to convene over next steps and raised questions about whether it’s safe to travel to Poland . Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: an Aeroflot plane; the Russian airline is banned from UK airspace (Getty Images)

Is it safe to travel to Poland?

Up to now, the conflict has been restricted to Ukrainian territory. And while there have been Russian military strikes within 20km of Poland, these have not crossed the borders.

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But on November 15, following an extended shelling in Ukraine, a stray Russian-made missile landed on the village of Przewodów, located in the Lubelskie province of eastern Poland. Two Polish citizens were killed. The incident is still under investigation but has raised fears of Nato forces being drawn into the war in Ukraine.

There is no travel advisory against travelling to Poland or its borders from the UK Foreign Office. The advice remains: “Russian military strikes have taken place in Ukraine within 20km of the Polish border. There is a real risk to life.”

What about visiting other countries that border Ukraine?

The UK Foreign Office has made no changes to its advice for most of Ukraine’s neighbours to the west, including Slovakia, Hungary and Romania, which means they are not considered as being at risk. Avoiding those countries’ borders with Ukraine is wise though, not least because of efforts to take in hundreds of thousands of refugees escaping the conflict. The same is true of the Polish border.

However, the UK Foreign Office advises against travel to Moldova’s Transnistria region on its eastern border with Ukraine and the crossing here has been closed. Moldova declared a state of emergency and closed its airspace on February 24. Lithuania, which borders Belarus north of Ukraine, declared a similar state of emergency, with everybody there required to carry photo ID at all times.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Belarus, Russia and Ukraine.

Which flights are banned from the UK?

The government banned Aeroflot and other Russian carriers from British airspace on the first day of the invasion — a measure that was soon reciprocated by Russia. The UK Foreign Office has since advised against all travel to Russia and most of European airspace now barred to Russian planes and vice versa.

The knock-on effects will go well beyond Russia, and travellers to destinations in Asia may have to get used to longer, more circuitous flights. It’s an echo of aviation during the Cold War, when airlines from outside the Soviet Union could not use the most direct routes to the Far East over Siberia.

On flights from the UK , the need to avoid Russian and Ukrainian airspace will affect travel to any destinations between Pakistan and Japan. The extra mileage needed grows the further east you go, so a flight to Mumbai might only be an hour longer, while one to Tokyo would be considerably more.

However, aviation could be less affected than it was during the Cold War for a number of reasons: some destinations in east Asia, including China and North Korea, are still largely closed to visitors because of Covid restrictions; planes can fly longer distances now and — unless Russia returns to a Soviet-style ban on overflights by any foreign carrier — various Asian airlines will still be able to offer the most direct routes. While the world of long-haul travel may not yet see a revival of Anchorage, Alaska, as a refuelling hub as it was before the Iron Curtain fell, any distance added to flight routes will of course translate into higher ticket prices.

• How to get your money back if your flight is delayed • Covid and travel insurance: what do I need to know?

Why are flights so expensive, and will this impact my holiday?

The attack on Ukraine and the implications of sanctions on Russia helped to push the price of Brent crude (the international benchmark for oil) above $100 a barrel for the first time since 2014. Although this has since fallen, prices remain high.

It is hard to disentangle the impact of the war in Ukraine from other global economic factors, such as supply chain issues that have been driving the price of oil up since the first Covid lockdowns of 2020 when it tumbled below $20 a barrel. Inflation has made headlines across most sectors this year, not just at the petrol pumps.

The share of fuel in the price of a plane ticket is usually smaller, since you are paying for a lot more than just the fuel, but it is still significant. To give a very rough example of how fuel price rises could affect a ticket, if a £150 ticket includes £30 for fuel, then a 50 per cent rise in the cost of that fuel should in theory result in the same ticket being priced at £165 after the increase. It is more complex than that, of course, thanks to airlines purchasing fuel in advance and having different fuel charges.

Airlines typically hedge against rises in jet fuel prices to protect that portion of the ticket cost from volatility, but if oil prices remain high, they will inevitably have to pass on that cost to passengers.

So it does seem likely that travellers will pay somewhat more for plane tickets than in the last “normal” pre-Covid of summer 2019, when oil prices were about 60 per cent of current levels. On the other hand, given the wild swings that the price of a ticket routinely goes through over its months on sale, driven by competition, changes in demand from leisure and business travellers and algorithms known only to the airline, the increase may not be as evident as it is at the petrol station.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

The Foreign Office has not added any new warnings about travel to Turkey linked to the war in Ukraine. There have long been parts of Turkey to which the FCDO advises against all or all but essential travel, but these are in the southeast of the country, particularly along the border with Syria, rather than on the Black Sea coast closest to Ukraine and Russia, or the Mediterranean coast, which is the most popular with British visitors.

Turkey has very recently shifted from fairly good relations with Russia to criticism of the invasion of Ukraine, and has invoked its right to close the straits that lead to the Black Sea to foreign warships. Turkey is also a Nato member.

• Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now?

What will the impact be on cruises?

The picture for cruises in the Black Sea and Baltics is more mixed. Obviously, none will be sailing to the Ukrainian port of Odessa, and Russian stops are also being dropped from itineraries across the board with alternative destinations swapped in — although itinerary changes are fairly standard in cruising. In all cases, check with your cruise operator if they haven’t already explained what changes or cancellations they have made.

Some previous crises have shown that people will cancel travel plans even for destinations far from the affected region: the 1990-91 Gulf War led to a major fall in visitor numbers not just in the Middle East but in Europe too, while an epidemic of the Ebola virus mainly in three West African countries in 2014-16 saw a drop in tourism to east African destinations such as Kenya , despite parts of Europe being closer to the outbreak.

Crew are also impacted by the crisis. Royal Caribbean alone has some 500 Ukrainian crew on its ships and says it is supporting them in getting home if they want to, or helping crew on leave in Ukraine to return to their ships earlier.

How are travel companies reacting to the war in Ukraine?

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has impacted travel in many ways, from flight bans to the effects of rising fuel prices, but the industry has also reacted with initiatives of its own. Some companies are going further in their boycotts of Russia to try to apply pressure wherever possible for a return to the peace table.

In the crisis over refugees fleeing Ukraine, some big travel businesses have offered free flights, train seats and temporary accommodation to move displaced Ukrainians away from the border areas. And for some tour companies with long experience in the region and local partners in Ukraine, it’s been a case of helping to bring direct support to refugees in Poland and other neighbouring countries as they start to rebuild their lives.

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Zelenskyy postpones foreign travel amid Russian offensive in northeast Ukraine

Ukrainian troops fall back from lukyantsi and vovchansk, both in kharkiv region.

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Ukrainian forces withdrew from some parts of the country's northeast and battled Russian troops in other areas Wednesday, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to postpone all his upcoming foreign trips underscored the threat his soldiers face.

Against that grim backdrop, visiting U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken sought to reassure Ukraine of continuing American support, announcing a $2-billion US arms deal. Most of the money comes from a package approved last month.

The top U.S. diplomat's trip comes as Russian troops press a new offensive in Ukraine's Kharkiv region. It began last week, marking the most significant border incursion since the full-scale invasion began in 2022 and forcing thousands to flee their homes. In recent weeks, Moscow's forces have also sought to build on gains in the eastern region of Donetsk. Taken together, the developments mean the war has entered a critical stage for Ukraine's depleted army .

Ukraine's General Staff reported late Tuesday that troops fell back from two areas in Kharkiv — Lukyantsi and Vovchansk — "in order to save the lives of our servicemen and avoid losses." Russia said it had captured Lukyantsi. It was not possible to independently verify either side's claims.

Vovchansk — just five kilometres from the Russian border — has been the focus of much of the recent fighting, and Ukrainian and Russian troops battled in its streets Wednesday.

Oleksii Kharkivskyi, head of the city's patrol police, said Russian troops were taking up positions in the city, while the Ukrainian General Staff said its forces were trying to flush them out.

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Gunfire could be heard in the background of a video the police official posted on his Instagram page.

The Ukrainian presidential office said additional reinforcements were being deployed in the region, including army reserve units.

Blinken touts U.S. support

At the dangerous juncture, Blinken was in Ukraine to highlight U.S. support, though most of the money he announced Wednesday, about $1.6 billion US, comes from the $60 billion US allotted to Ukraine in the supplemental foreign assistance legislation passed by Congress and signed by U.S. President Joe Biden, officials said.

He said the money would be used for three purposes: to provide weapons in the short term, to invest in Ukraine's defence-industrial base and to allow Ukraine to buy military supplies from other countries.

At a news conference with Blinken, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said of the aid: "This is a very powerful message to both our friends and our enemies."

Blinken said Washington understands the urgency of Ukraine's need for additional air defences to protect against the Russian onslaught and was prioritizing them in its assistance.

Fully subterranean 'bunker school' opens in Kharkiv

He added that the U.S. has "not encouraged or enabled strikes outside of Ukraine" using American-supplied long-range weapons. That decision is up to Kyiv authorities, he said.

The United Kingdom has said it placed no limits on Ukraine's use of weapons supplied by Britain to hit targets on Russian soil, but Germany, another major supporter, has balked at that and ruled it out for fear of escalating the conflict.

Russia opening new fronts

Russia is opening new fronts in order to stretch Ukraine's army, which is short of ammunition and manpower, along the about 1,000-kilometre front line, hoping defences will crumble. Russian artillery and sabotage raids have also been menacing Ukraine's northern Chernihiv and Sumy regions.

The Russian Defence Ministry also claimed that its troops have retaken the village of Robotnye in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Ukrainian forces had gained control of the village last year in what was seen as an important advance in a counteroffensive that eventually petered out.

Elsewhere in Ukraine's southern regions, an aerial attack on the central district of Kherson wounded 17 civilians, the regional prosecutor's office said. And a Russian missile attack injured six people in Mykolaiv, according to Ukraine's rescue service.

Still, the Institute for the Study of War said late Tuesday that the pace of Russia's advance in the Kharkiv border region, where it launched an offensive late last week and has made significant progress, has slowed. The Washington-based think-tank said Moscow's main aim there is to create a "buffer zone" that will prevent Ukrainian cross-border strikes on Russia's Belgorod region.

Zelenskyy confirms further support from Canada

Even so, Zelenskyy's office announced Wednesday he cancelled all his upcoming foreign visits and would try to reschedule them.

Zelenskyy had been expected to visit Spain, and potentially Portugal, later this week. No reason was given for his decision, but the difficulties on the front line hung over it.

On Wednesday evening, Zelenskyy said in his nightly address that the Ukrainian forces have managed to "partially stabilize" fighting in the Kharkiv region, and that "the occupier who entered the Kharkiv region, is being destroyed with all available means." He didn't elaborate.

Meanwhile, Russian air defences shot down several Ukrainian missiles over the Black Sea and near the Belbek air base, Sevastopol Gov. Mikhail Razvozhayev said. Sevastopol is where the Russian Black Sea Fleet is headquartered.

• Residents of northeast Ukraine flee latest Russian advance
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The fragments of downed missiles fell into residential areas but caused no casualties, Razvozhayev said.

Concerns U.S. aid for Ukraine arriving too late as Russia advances

Russian air defences also shot down nine Ukrainian drones, two Vilha rockets, two anti-radar HARM missiles and two Hammer guided bombs over the Belgorod region early Wednesday, the Defence Ministry said.

Vasily Golubev, the governor of the Rostov region, said two drones attacked a fuel depot. He said there were no casualties or fire.

Ukraine has launched a steady series of drone attacks on oil refineries and fuel depots across Russia over the past months, causing significant damage .

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Zelenskiy postpones travel abroad as Russian troops enter Ukraine border town

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• Zelenskiy delays travel amid situation in Kharkiv region
• Russian troops enter border town on new front
• Blinken says US rushing in weapons and ammunition

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Reporting by Yuliia Dysa, Anastasiia Malenko, Serhiy Karazy, Kyiv bureau; writing by Tom Balmforth; editing by Christina Fincher, Alexandra Hudson, Philippa Fletcher and Ron Popeski

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Worst fears for slovak pm's health are over, says deputy prime minister.

The worst fears regarding Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's health have passed for the time being, Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak said on Sunday, although he said that he would not be transferred away from Banska Bystrica hospital for now.

Ukraine fired nine U.S. ATACMS at Crimea and attacked Russian regions with at least 60 drones in a major attack that forced one oil refinery in southern Russia to halt operations, Russian officials said on Sunday.

Foreign Office updates Turkey advice as Scottish tourists told 'leave the area'

T he UK Foreign Office has issued an updated travel advisory for Scots planning a holiday in Turkey. The government is advising against travel to certain regions of the country, while tourists visiting areas deemed safe have been cautioned about specific crimes and given safety advice.

Turkey ranks as one of the top holiday destinations for Brits after Spain, with nearly four million UK tourists visiting in 2023. Its beautiful beaches, mountain ranges, delectable cuisine and captivating cities are major attractions - but it's crucial that holidaymakers adhere to official travel advice when heading overseas.

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Currently, the British Foreign Office strongly advises against all travel within 10km of the Syrian border due to ongoing conflict and an increased risk of terrorism. It also recommends avoiding all but essential travel to Sirnak city and Hikkari Province.

Travelling against these advisories could result in travel insurance becoming void, reports Birmingham Live .

While popular tourist spots like Istanbul, Antalya and Bodrum are generally considered safe for travel, the Foreign Office has warned travellers about political demonstrations and crimes such as pickpocketing and food and drink spiking. They've also provided guidance on staying safe when using public transport.

The UK government has issued an updated travel advisory for Turkey on May 1, covering health, wildfires, crime, outdoor activities and adventure tourism. Here's a summary of the current advice....

Terrorist attacks and protests.

Holidaymakers are advised to 'stay aware of their surroundings at all times' due to a high global threat of terrorist attacks, including from groups and individuals who target the UK and British nationals.

Most terrorist incidents have taken place in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. Those visiting these areas are urged to stay informed through local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Attacks could occur in tourist spots including public buildings, places of worship, airports and large public gatherings.

The conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories has led to increased tensions and sporadic demonstrations can occur in cities which may turn violent, warns the Foreign Office. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to break up protests and tourists are advised to steer clear of all demonstrations and 'leave the area' if one develops.

Brits jetting off to popular holiday destinations are being cautioned by the Foreign Office about a spike in crime, particularly in bustling tourist spots. Travellers should stay alert for street thefts and pickpocketing incidents, ensuring their valuables are kept safe at all times.

Additionally, there have been reports of drink and food tampering, prompting advice for tourists to always purchase their own beverages and maintain visibility of them at all times. It's also recommended to be cautious of any unfamiliar individuals who offer to exchange money, invite you to restaurants or clubs, or propose food or drinks.

In a concerning statistic, British consular staff in Turkey dealt with 42 sexual assault reports, including rape, in 2023, with most incidents occurring during the summer in coastal areas frequented by tourists. Often, these crimes took place at night and were perpetrated by someone the victim had encountered earlier that day, sometimes even hotel employees.

As such, holidaymakers are advised to exercise increased caution in these scenarios.

Moreover, accepting rides from unknown individuals is strongly discouraged. The Foreign Office advises securing a registered taxi and taking note of its registration number before getting in.

When it comes to outdoor pursuits, Brits are urged to ensure that proper safety measures are in place, especially if engaging in extreme sports. The guidance from the Foreign Office is clear: "Only use reputable operators. Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity. Make sure your travel insurance covers you for all activities you do."

When it comes to quad biking on your holiday, make sure you're covered with specific travel insurance because the standard insurance from hire companies typically only includes third party cover. If you damage the vehicle, you could be facing hefty charges and even arrest if you can't pay up.

Helmets are a must for both drivers and passengers, and not wearing one might mean your insurance won't cover you. Plus, if the local police catch you without a helmet, expect a fine and to say goodbye to your licence.

Turkey's summer is notorious for wildfires, and the government's latest advice doesn't take this lightly. It warns: "You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland. Barbecues are prohibited in these areas. If there is a wildfire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities."