Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against all travel to Crimea.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to within 50km of the border with Belarus in the following regions:
\n\nVolyn
\nRivne
\nZhytomyr
\nThis is due to the ongoing presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security personnel on the Belarusian side of the border.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to all other regions of Ukraine (with the exception of some Western regions; see below).
\n\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to the following regions in western Ukraine:
\n\n(see Border with Belarus above)
\n\nThe Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing, with frequent missile and drone attacks across the country, which injure and kill civilians and cause significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including residential areas, energy, industrial, rail and related facilities. Russian Military activity against Ukraine has intensified over the last year. The last 3 months have seen continually high drone and missile strikes with over 5,000 drones and over 100 missiles launched in these months on average. In July 2026 , Russia launched around 150 ballistic missiles against Ukraine. This 3 month period also saw the highest monthly civilian casualty counts since April 2022, with over 2,000 casualties in each month.
\n\nBritish nationals are advised to exercise heightened awareness and be prepared to immediately shelter in the event an air alert is announced. Be extra vigilant whilst travelling in urban centres.
\n\nThere 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. While these are more frequent where FCDO advises against all travel, they can and do also happen in the western regions, where FCDO advice is against all but essential travel.
\n\nConferences and events that are attended by the Ukrainian government and military are more likely to be targeted.
\n\nIn the event of attacks, follow the advice of the local authorities, including responding to air raid alerts and train evacuation instructions.
\n\nRussian attacks on the energy network may result in unscheduled blackouts or emergency power cuts with little notice. Rolling scheduled blackouts may be required in some areas. Electricity outages may also affect district heating and water supplies. Be aware that temperatures may drop below -20°C in the depths of winter.
\n\nUkraine’s airspace remains closed.
\n\nThe 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.
\n\nWe continue to advise British nationals in regions where FCDO advises against all travel, to leave these areas, if they judge it safe to do so.
\n\nThe British Embassy in Kyiv is unable to help you in person. FCDO cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine or your evacuation.
\n\nMartial law is in place. Follow the instructions of the Ukrainian authorities and check any measures in place in your location, as they will vary by region.
\n\nIf you are in Ukraine, you should:
\n\nThere are a number of air raid alert apps available, including “Air Alert”.
\nMonitor travel advice regularly. Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nSee FCDO advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas.
\n\nExpect 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.
\n\nFor information about leaving Ukraine by car, see Transport information and risks.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nIf 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 adpsu@dpsu.gov.ua for advice.
\n\nUkrainian national and dual-national males aged 23 to 60 are prohibited from leaving the country. Dual-nationals have to comply to the same military conscription laws as Ukrainian mono-nationals.
\n\nEven if you do not consider Ukrainian to be your primary nationality, the Ukrainian authorities may see you as a Ukrainian national: for example, if you have a Ukrainian parent, or if you were born in Ukraine.
\n\nFor any information regarding nationality issues, you would need to seek advice from local authorities or legal experts.
\n\nThe 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 assistance from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in that country.
\n\nIf you are in Ukraine against FCDO advice, or need support to leave Ukraine, take advice from a private security company and take appropriate security measures.
\n\nFCDO 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.
\n\nFCDO 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.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nSince 18 May 2024, British nationals who join the International Legion or Ukraine Armed Forces have to serve at least six months and are not allowed to leave Ukraine during this period.
\n\nBritish 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 maltreatment, is high.
\n\nThe British Government’s ability to support you in these circumstances is very limited. It cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine, your medical repatriation, or termination of your military contract. Find out more about FCDO consular assistance.
\n\nIf you choose to travel despite FCDO advice, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nThe FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\n","slug":"warnings-and-insurance","title":"Warnings and insurance"},{"body":"This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel despite FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Ukraine’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Ukraine set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK. The Ukrainian State Border Guard Service has the final decision on whether a person is eligible to enter Ukraine.
\n\nIf you are a permanent resident of Ukraine, you do not need to show proof of insurance.
\n\nIf you’re travelling without a visa, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. If you’re applying for a visa, your passport may need to have an additional period of validity. Check with the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK for further details.
\n\nAt the border you will need to:
\n\nYou can find more information on:
\n\n\n\nBritish Citizen passport holders can enter Ukraine without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ukraine has confirmed that this policy will continue to apply to British citizens until 30 January 2027.
\n\nIf you’re planning to stay in Ukraine for longer than 90 days in a 180 day period, you need to get a visa. For more advice contact the Ukrainian Embassy in London or Consulate General in Edinburgh.
\n\nIf you have a temporary or permanent residence card that’s expired, you are still allowed to return to Ukraine. The expired document will remain valid while martial law remains in place and for 30 days afterwards. For more information see the Visit Ukraine website or contact the State Migration Service of Ukraine.
\n\nIf you need to extend your stay in Ukraine, check with the State Migration Service. If you overstay the 90 day allowance, you will be fined and may not be able to return to Ukraine for 90 days after leaving the country.
\n\nIf you intend to go to any of the areas not controlled by the Ukrainian authorities, you must apply to the State Migration Service.
\n\nFor details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Ukraine guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into and out of Ukraine (in Ukrainian), including antiques and items of historical interest. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. If in doubt seek prior permission from the customs authorities.
\n\nNon-residents are allowed to bring a vehicle for personal use into Ukraine for up to one year. There’s no need to complete a customs declaration form. The vehicle can only be used in Ukraine by the person that brought it into the country. An undeclared vehicle cannot be:
\n\nIf you want to do any of these things, you’ll need to register the vehicle in Ukraine and pay the appropriate customs duty.
\n\nYou must take the vehicle out of Ukraine within the required timeframe, or place it into the customs regime of the State.
\n\nIf your vehicle breaks down and cannot be fixed, you should inform the State Customs Service and provide them with evidence that it cannot be repaired. You may then dispose of the vehicle through the official channels of the State Customs Service.
\n\nFor further information on bringing your car to Ukraine, contact the State Customs Service of Ukraine.
\n\nIt is illegal to enter internationally recognised Ukrainian territory through a border point that is not currently controlled by the Ukrainian authorities. If you do, you risk arrest or a fine, and a travel ban.
\n\nInternational border crossings that are not currently under the control of the Ukrainian authorities include:
\n\nFor information on border crossing procedures, entry and exit regulations, and checkpoints, see the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGSU) website.
\n\nFor information on leaving Ukraine by car, see Transport information and risks.
\n\nIf you plan to travel to Poland, check the travel advice page for Poland which includes information on entry requirements.
\n\nThe Ukrainian government website lists the main border crossings into Poland.
\n\nIf you plan to travel to Hungary, check our travel advice page for Hungary, which includes information on entry requirements.
\n\nThe Hungarian police website gives more information on crossing the Ukraine-Hungary border.
\n\nIf you plan to travel to Slovakia, check our travel advice for Slovakia, which includes information on entry requirements.
\n\nFor information about cross-border rail connections, see the Slovak national rail website. For information on crossing the border see Slovak government advice.
\n\nIf you plan to travel to Romania, check our travel advice for Romania, which includes information on entry requirements.
\n\nIf you plan to travel to Moldova, check our travel advice for Moldova, which includes information on entry requirements.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to Transnistria.
\n\nUkraine’s border with Belarus is currently closed.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to Belarus. See FCDO Travel Advice for Belarus.
\n\nUkraine’s border with Russia is currently closed.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to Russia. See FCDO Travel Advice for Russia.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorist attacks in Ukraine cannot be ruled out.
\n\nA state of emergency, put in place by the Government of Ukraine in February 2022, remains in effect, and martial law is in force throughout Ukraine.
\n\nThere is a hazard from unexploded weapons throughout Ukraine, but particularly in the South and East of the country along the current conflict frontlines, and in areas where ground fighting occurred (particularly since 2022). Drone and missile strikes occur frequently across Ukraine and can deposit unexploded weapons in public areas. This includes cluster munitions, which scatter round the landing site and can cause delayed explosions. Flooding in the Kherson Oblast, following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in June 2023, spread unexploded weapons across the region.
\n\nIf you come across an unexploded weapon, such as a landmine, do not approach it or touch it. Make a note of where you saw it and notify the authorities on 101. Beware of more unexploded weapons nearby.
\n\nExplosions 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.
\n\nBefore the full-scale invasion, serious crime against foreigners was relatively rare, but incidents did occur, with some cases being racially motivated.
\n\nIf you are a victim of crime, report it to the police by calling 102. FCDO has a list of local translators in Ukraine. We cannot confirm whether these translators are still offering services during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
\n\nBe alert to the possibility of street crime and petty theft. Foreigners may appear to be lucrative targets.
\n\nTheft of and from vehicles is common. Do not leave documents or money in your vehicle.
\n\nDo not leave drinks or food unattended as they could be spiked. Beware of accepting drinks from casual acquaintances.
\n\nCloning of credit and debit cards is common. Be aware of who is around you when using ATMs and do not let your card out of your sight during transactions.
\n\nUkraine is a target for large cyber-attacks which disrupt basic services and risk data security, including personal data. In March 2025, a large-scale attack targeted Ukraine’s national railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia, impacting ticket purchasing.
\n\nIn December 2023, there was a high-impact cyber attack on Ukrainian networks. Ukraine’s largest mobile network operator, Kyivstar, suffered a cyber attack which left users without a mobile signal or the ability to use the internet. It also disrupted air raid apps, some banks, ATMs, and point-of-sale terminals. The Ukrainian bank Monobank was also targeted, disrupting access to the bank’s website.
\n\nUkrainian officials generally only speak Ukrainian and Russian.
\n\nCarry your passport at all times to use as identification and to demonstrate your legal status in Ukraine if asked by the police. Police should identify themselves and show identification. If you’re detained because you have not been able to present your passport, ask for an official report.
\n\nATMs 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.
\n\nMake sure you have sufficient cash in local currency. US dollars and euros are the easiest currencies to exchange in Ukraine. You may be able to exchange sterling, but in fewer places. Scottish and Northern Irish notes are not accepted. Only use official exchange booths and make sure you’re given a receipt. You’ll need to present your passport to exchange currency worth 150,000 Ukrainian hryvnia or more. You’ll need the receipt to exchange money back on departure.
\n\nThere is a risk that cyber attacks could disrupt mobile, internet and banking services.
\n\nIt is illegal to smoke or drink alcohol in public places, including on public transport, at bus stops, underground crossings, cultural, sports and governmental establishments, playgrounds and parks.
\n\nPenalties for being caught in possession of drugs are severe.
\n\nDo not take photographs near government or military establishments.
\n\nAlthough same-sex relationships are not illegal, public attitudes are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may receive negative attention. There’s no provision under Ukrainian legislation guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nDue to the security challenges across all of Ukraine, we must currently advise against commissioning any surrogacy arrangements there. Further information about surrogacy overseas can be found here.
\n\nCommissioning a surrogacy will not automatically mean that the child holds British citizenship. If you want to bring your child born through surrogacy from Ukraine to the UK, you must apply for a full British passport.
\n\nThe FCDO cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine.
\n\nIf you are considering changing your surrogacy arrangements, or making a new arrangement with a Ukrainian woman in another country, check surrogacy advice for that country also.
\n\nDue to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, expect disruption to travel and transport networks. Only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. We cannot confirm which services are operating. Where possible, check before travelling.
\n\nUnregulated taxi drivers can overcharge. Use official taxis, which have the name and telephone number of the taxi company on the side of the door and on the top of the taxi.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Ukraine, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC’s Ukraine guide.
\n\nYou must have a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) as well as your UK driving licence to drive in Ukraine. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nYou need to carry a green card to drive in Ukraine. A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad.
\n\nYou must carry original vehicle registration papers, ownership documents and insurance papers at all times. You must show them when crossing borders and if you are stopped by the police. This also applies to rental vehicles. If you do not have these papers when stopped by the police they have the right to impound your vehicle and charge you for this.
\n\nIf you intend to rent a vehicle for your travel in Ukraine, check with the car hire company and insurance company about their policy on renting cars in Ukraine and any other country you will pass through, especially non-EU countries. Ensure they provide you with a rental agreement permitting you to cross the Ukrainian border.
\n\nRoads are of variable quality and routes may be affected by the ongoing invasion. Avoid night-time travel wherever possible.
\n\nLocal driving standards are poor. Street lights are weak and road users often ignore speed limits, traffic lights and road signs. Drivers frequently make turns and change lane without indicating. There are a high number of traffic accidents, including fatalities. Speeding, drink driving and infrequent use of helmets, seat belts and child restraints in vehicles are the main contributing factors.
\n\nIf you have a road accident, you must wait for the police to assess the accident. Call the police on 102. Local officials generally only speak Ukrainian and Russian.
\n\nIt is illegal to drive with any alcohol content in your blood.
\n\nPolice can stop vehicles and give fines for minor offences such as illegal parking or jumping a red light. They may carry a credit card terminal to collect payment on the spot, or fines can be paid online or at a bank within 15 days. See payment options (in Ukrainian). The police officer should give their name and rank, explain why you have been stopped and make an administrative offence report. The police may film interactions with members of the public.
\n\nYou can leave Ukraine by car through most border crossing points, but Ukraine’s border crossings with Russia and Belarus are closed to regular traffic.
\n\nThere could be long queues at the border crossing points with EU member states and Moldova. Have a good supply of food, water, warm clothing, medication and fuel.
\n\nThe State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGSU) website has a map showing the border crossing locations. The State Customs Service lists waiting times at border crossing points.
\n\nAt the border crossing, the SBGSU will check:
\n\nFor more information see the SBGSU website or call the SBGSU hotline on 1598 from a Ukrainian mobile.
\n\nIf you leave the country in a vehicle registered in the UK, which you temporarily imported to Ukraine, you will have to provide your import customs declaration when leaving.
\n\nYou may need additional documents. For further information on leaving Ukraine by car, contact the State Customs Service of Ukraine (site in Ukrainian).
\n\nIf you travel by train, make sure your belongings are secure. Do not agree to look after the luggage of a fellow traveller or allow it to be stored in your compartment.
\n\nUkraine’s air space is closed.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nFloods can cause travel disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Check weather warnings from Ukraine’s Hydrometeorological Center before travel and follow the advice of the local authorities.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"This section has safety advice for regions of Ukraine. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to all regions in eastern Ukraine, including any Ukrainian territories which are temporarily under Russian control. FCDO is not able to provide in-person assistance to anyone in these regions.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to within 50km of the border with Belarus in the regions of:
\n\nThis is due to the ongoing presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security personnel on the Belarusian side of the border.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to all other regions of Ukraine except for specific regions of western Ukraine (see below). This includes any areas temporarily under Russian control such as Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.
\n\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to the regions of:
\n\nIn the event of attacks, follow the advice of the local authorities, including responding to air raid sirens.
\n\nIn theory foreign nationals need to provide their passport and a special permit issued by the territorial body of the State Migration Service of Ukraine. However, due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, it is not currently possible for foreign nationals to enter or exit Crimea.
\n\nThe Crimean sea ports of Kerch, Sevastopol, Feodosia, Yalta and Yevpatoria have been designated by the Ukrainian authorities as closed to international shipping.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nCall 103 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nDue to the ongoing invasion, some supply chains are interrupted, and some medical products are hard to come by. Information on which pharmacies are operational is provided by local authorities and pharmacy networks.
\n\nThe Ukrainian Ministry of Health operates a hotline at +380 (0)800 60 20 19 to coordinate access to insulin and other critical medicines for those who need it. The service Tabletki.ua (site in Ukrainian) is continuing to operate and tries to maintain hourly updates about availability of medicines nationwide.
\n\nPharmacies may close without notice. Maintain a stock of essential medication. Pharmacies in smaller towns may not have the same variety of medications available in the bigger cities. Pharmacies are usually easily identifiable by the presence of a green cross or the word ‘apteka’ (аптека). Some stronger medications require a prescription from a doctor, written in Ukrainian.
\n\nFCDO has a list of healthcare providers in Ukraine. Due to the ongoing invasion, we cannot confirm that all these providers are operating.
\n\nState medical facilities in Ukraine are generally poor. Private clinics and hospitals offer a better standard of care, though these do not always meet western standards and practices. If you require emergency medical treatment, it is likely that you will be taken to a state hospital unless you can show that you have comprehensive medical insurance cover.
\n\nEnglish is not widely spoken and you may face communication difficulties if you do not speak Ukrainian.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nAmbulance: 103
\n\nFire: 101
\n\nPolice: 102
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nOr in an emergency you can call our 24-hour helpline and select the option for ‘consular services for British nationals’:
\n\nThe British Embassy in Kyiv is unable to provide in-person assistance.
\n\nFull consular services are available at British embassies in neighbouring countries.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n