Ukraine

We continue to advise do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and ongoing military conflict. There is a risk to life. If you're currently in Ukraine, we encourage you to depart if it's safe to do so.

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. Follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor advice on Smartraveller and reputable local and international media about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place. 

Russia has launched intensified attacks against Ukraine's civilian and Government infrastructure. Attacks are ongoing. Russian strikes in Ukraine pose a 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, particularly in the east and south. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in various locations across the country, including in major cities. Rocket, drone, and missile attacks have struck infrastructure, including civilian and military facilities. There have been many casualties. Foreigners have been killed or captured and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat.

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. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections. Follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities.

When it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. 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. 

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. 

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

• Poland
• Slovakia
• Hungary
• Romania
• Moldova
• 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 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.

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. They took place 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

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

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

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.

More information:

• Partying safely

Scams

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. 

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

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including 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 

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.

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.

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 depart Australia.

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.

More information:

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

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.

More information: 

• Medication 

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 (March to December) in Ukraine.

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

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.

More information:

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

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers.

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

Polio

Due to low vaccination rates in Ukraine, polio poses a serious risk to young children.

Check your polio 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
• diphtheria
• hepatitis
• rabies

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, seek medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Radiation poisoning

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

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 don't 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.

Always carry your passport.

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

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.

Drugs

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

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 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. 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'll need to travel to the nearest Australian embassy or consulate outside Ukraine, 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 consider the risks when entering and departing Ukraine carefully. 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 'Travel'.

More information:

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

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. Australians on the frontline have been killed and captured by Russia. 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. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. 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.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

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 old 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.

More information:

• Dual nationals

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

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

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

We continue to advise do not travel to Ukraine.

Visas

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.

If you judge it's safe to depart 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

Contact an embassy or consulate of Ukraine about what you must declare with 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:

• currency
• antiques
• art
• items of historical significance

Validity

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
• Due to the security situation, the Australian Embassy is not able to provide in-person consular or passport services in Ukraine.
• Obtaining a replacement passport may take extra time. You'll need to travel to the nearest Australian embassy or consulate outside Ukraine, at your own expense and risk, to obtain a travel document.

Children

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

More information:

• 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. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The local currency is the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH).

ATMs are available, and credit cards are widely used in cities. However, due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, 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.

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

MH17 crash site

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

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.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

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.

More information:

• 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.

More information:

• Ukrainian Railways

Air travel

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.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline.

Fire

Call 101.

Medical emergencies

Call 103.

Police

Call 102.

General (mobile phones only)

Call 112.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

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

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. 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

You can email the Australian Embassy for advice on consular and passport information: Consular.Kyiv@dfat.gov.au

Website: ukraine.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australian Embassy, Ukraine
X: @AUinUA