Ukraine

We continue to advise you 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 a series of intensified attacks against Ukraine's civilian and government infrastructure, with attacks ongoing. Russian strikes in Ukraine pose a continued threat to civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russian strikes 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. Infrastructure, civilian and military facilities have been struck by rocket and missile attacks. There have been many casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. If you engage in active combat your safety is at the highest risk. Do not travel to Ukraine, there is a risk to life.

The US Government issued travel advice on 29 March advising there are reports of US citizens being singled out and detained by the Russian military in Ukraine. This is also occurring when citizens are evacuating by land through Russia-occupied territory or to Russia or Belarus.

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 if 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. Make sure you have an adequate supply of basic food, water and medications. Have a list of emergency contacts on you and screen shot 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. You need to carefully consider how and when you're going to leave and the safest means and route to depart. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or have damage, including to bridges and facilities. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Unexploded ordinance and landmines are present in conflict and post-conflict areas. Follow the advice of local authorities about where these areas are and avoiding them.

Communication infrastructure may become damaged or blocked and there have been reports of cyber attacks. Contact your family and friends to let them know your travel plans, where and how you are. Don't wait.

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.

Russian-backed armed groups control parts of Donetsk and Luhansk. Foreigners have been threatened, detained and kidnapped in these regions. This could occur anywhere in Ukraine. Landmines are prevalent throughout the area. They have killed civilians in Donetsk and Luhansk in recent years. Foreign nationals have been given death sentences in these areas for engaging in the war in Ukraine.

Crimea isn't under Ukrainian Government control, having been illegally occupied by Russia since 2014. There's a risk of armed conflict along the administrative border.

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. Ukraine 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, rail or air. 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:

• Poland
• Slovakia
• Hungary
• Romania
• Moldova

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

Consular assistance

If you’re at the border and 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.

On 22 February, the Australian Government directed the departure of Australian Embassy staff from Ukraine due to the volatile security situation. All staff have departed. Our Embassy is temporarily closed. Australian Embassy officials have relocated to Poland.

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

Registration

If you're unable to depart Ukraine or choose to remain, register your whereabouts on DFAT's registration portal for Australian citizens in Ukraine, due to the volatile security environment and military conflict in the country. 

You should only register if you’re in Ukraine and:

• an Australian citizen
• an Australian permanent resident (PR), or
• an immediate family member of an Australian citizen or PR

Click here to register.

Keep your registration details up to date in case we need to contact you. 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 a supply 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.

The conditions in Ukraine are changing rapidly due to Russia’s invasion. This means local rules listed in the travel advice may not reflect the current situation.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. In Kyiv, large demonstrations have taken place around the Maidan Nezalezhnosti, St Michael’s Square, outside the Presidential Administration, Parliament and other government offices.

Demonstrations and protests

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

Civil unrest can cause road closures and disrupt local transport.

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

Be aware of protests from November to March to mark 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
• public transport
• airports and other transport hubs
• places where people gather

To stay safe:

• be aware in places known to be possible targets
• report suspicious activities or items to 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.

More information:

• Terrorism

Petty crime

Serious crime targeting foreigners is not 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 people you don't know
• never leave food or drinks unattended

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.

Be aware of bogus internet friendship, 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.

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

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 1000s 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 condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

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 eight 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.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 (Department of Health and Aged Care)

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

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Ukraine.

For information on Ukraine’s COVID-19 vaccination program, refer to Ukraine’s Ministry of Health vaccination website. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally.  The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

More information:

• COVID-19 advice from the Ukrainian Government
• COVID-19 (Department of Health and Aged Care) 

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

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 Outbreaks 2019 (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• 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

Ukraine reported an outbreak of polio in October 2021. 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
• measles
• 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, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Radiation poisoning

In 1986, there was a catastrophic nuclear accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. It spread radioactive material across northern Ukraine and beyond. It remains radioactive.

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.

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.

Other laws

Always carry your passport.

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

Do not enter into new 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. See 'Safety'.

Some surrogacy agencies have been prevented from fulfilling their obligations on their surrogacy contracts 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 passports assistance to Australians. Our embassy is temporarily closed, and officials have 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, to obtain a travel document for your child. Your child must stay in Ukraine, in appropriate care at your expense, while you obtain the appropriate travel document. 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, you're encouraged to register your whereabouts on DFAT's registration portal for Australian citizens in Ukraine. Make sure you have up-to-date visas and passports. Keep your registration details up to date in case we need to contact you. 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'.

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 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 passports assistance to Australians. Our embassy is temporarily closed, and officials have relocated to 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.

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 may be required to complete military service.

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 LGBTI pride events and venues in Ukraine.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI 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 a 180 day period.

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. Your insurance plan must cover the cost of COVID-19 treatment. Check the Visit Ukraine website before travelling.

You should also check the COVID-19 requirements of your airline.

You need to carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or have damage, including to bridges and facilities. 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. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. If you judge it's safe to leave Ukraine and you're travelling by road, check the entry requirements for where you are travelling to, 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 the cross border points
• Visit Ukraine
• State Border Guard Service of Ukraine

Donetsk and Luhansk

Foreigners who enter Ukraine from Russia through Russian-back armed groups checkpoint at Donetsk or Luhansk won't be allowed through any government-controlled checkpoints that follow.

Crimea

If you decide to travel to Crimea despite our advice, note that you can't enter Ukrainian-controlled territory if you enter Crimea from any other country.

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

Undeclared items may be confiscated.

Customs rules control the export of:

• currency
• antiques
• art
• items of historical significance

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

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six 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 for 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.

Children

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

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

The local currency is the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH).

ATMs are available and credit cards are widely used in cities.

Outside major cities, carry enough cash in local currency.

MH17 crash site

On 17 July 2014, Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was shot down near Hrabovo in the separatist-controlled part of Donetsk province.

Investigations into the crash are continuing.

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

If, despite our advice, you go to the crash site, don't touch or take any materials relating to the crash.

Driving permit

To drive in Ukraine, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

When you drive, you must carry:

• 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 have damage, including to bridges and facilities. See 'Safety'.

Hazards include:

• poorly lit and maintained roads
• aggressive or speeding drivers
• drivers who ignore road rules
• drunk drivers
• 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 or Uklon.

Agree on the fare before getting in the taxi.

Beware of taxi drivers at airports or tourist locations. They may charge you more.

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers you before riding a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses can be crowded, particularly around public holidays and peak commuter 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

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.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

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

On 22 February, the Australian Government directed the departure of Australian Embassy staff from Ukraine due to the volatile security situation. All staff have departed. Our Embassy is temporarily closed. Australian Embassy officials have relocated to 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 closed)

Email for consular assistance: Consular.Kyiv@dfat.gov.au
Website: ukraine.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australian Embassy, Ukraine
Twitter: @AUinUA