Ukraine
Eastern Europe • UKR
Last updated: May 8, 2026
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Ukraine is a culturally rich nation known for its stunning architecture, vibrant cities, and deep-rooted historical traditions. It offers a diverse mix of ancient landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere, though travel is currently restricted due to the ongoing conflict.
Visa Requirements
Citizens from many Western countries can enter Ukraine for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa, though this is currently suspended due to martial law.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Proof of medical insurance that covers the costs of COVID-19 treatment and observation
- Sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Proof of accommodation or an invitation letter from a host
Popular Attractions
Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv features stunning 11th-century mosaics and frescos that showcase the country's historical and spiritual depth.
The historic center of Lviv is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with charming cobblestone streets, coffee houses, and unique architectural styles.
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone offers a haunting look into history through guided tours of the site of the 1986 nuclear disaster.
Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress is a majestic medieval castle built on a rocky island, providing a dramatic glimpse into Ukraine's defensive past.
Odesa's Opera House is an architectural masterpiece known for its opulent interior and world-class performances on the Black Sea coast.
Local Customs & Etiquette
It is common to bring a small gift like flowers or chocolates when visiting someone's home, but always bring an odd number of flowers as even numbers are for funerals.
Removing your shoes upon entering a private home is a standard expectation and sign of respect for the host.
Tipping in restaurants is standard practice, usually around 10 percent of the bill if service is not already included.
Public displays of affection are generally considered modest, and maintaining a calm demeanor in public spaces is appreciated.
Learning a few basic phrases in Ukrainian is highly regarded and helps demonstrate respect for the local culture and language.
Safety Tips
Avoid all travel to Ukraine at this time due to the ongoing full-scale military invasion by Russia.
If you are in the country, heed all air raid sirens immediately and move to the nearest designated bomb shelter or basement.
Maintain a low profile, avoid discussing sensitive political topics with strangers, and avoid photographing military infrastructure.
Stay updated with information from your embassy and follow the instructions provided by local authorities regarding security.
Have copies of all your important identification documents saved digitally and stored separately from the physical originals.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
none
Source: WHO
No specific vaccination requirements for entry into Ukraine.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Ukraine. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Ukraine.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Ukraine. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: Canada_Travel
Ensure that your routine vaccinations, including MMR, are up-to-date before traveling to Ukraine.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
medical attention after travel
Source: WHO
After travel
Seek medical attention on return if ill in the weeks after travel, particularly with fever, persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, jaundice, urinary disorders, skin disease, or anogenital infection.
View sourceprotection from extreme weather
Source: WHO
During travel
Be mindful of the need for protection from extreme weather, such as heat waves.
View sourcefood and water safety precautions
Source: WHO
During travel
Be mindful of food and water safety precautions.
View sourcemedications for chronic health conditions
Source: WHO
During travel
Continue to take medications for chronic health conditions, if applicable.
View sourcehealth documents
Source: WHO
During travel
When travelling, always have important health documents with you, such as health insurance certificates and vaccine or malaria prophylaxis records.
View sourcecomprehensive travel insurance
Source: WHO
Before travel
Travelers are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance as a matter of routine and to declare any underlying health conditions to their travel insurers.
View sourceTick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine
Source: CDC
For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas, TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.
TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found.
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Rabies is present in dogs and some wildlife species in Ukraine. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for travelers who will be performing activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
Consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: Canada_Travel
Vaccination is recommended for all travelers to Ukraine.
Hepatitis B is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: Canada_Travel
Vaccination is recommended due to the risk of hepatitis A in Ukraine.
Hepatitis A 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 have close physical contact with an infectious person.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: Canada_Travel
Before traveling to Ukraine, ensure that your routine vaccinations, including MMR, are up-to-date.
Measles is a serious viral infection that spreads easily. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from measles.
View sourcestock of essential medication
Source: UK_FCDO
before travel
Maintain a stock of essential medication, as pharmacies may close without notice and some medical products may be hard to find due to supply chain interruptions.
View sourceappropriate travel insurance
Source: UK_FCDO
before travel
Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation, especially if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccination
Source: ECDC
Before travel
Ensure MMR vaccinations are current to prevent potential outbreaks.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
All travelers should be up to date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
All travelers should be up to date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
COVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended for all travelers to protect against COVID-19.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may be visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or who may eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to Ukraine, especially for those who might eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Traveler's diarrhea prevention measures
Source: CDC
To avoid food and water safety issues, all travelers should take precautions against foodborne illnesses.
View source