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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Ukraine travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 17, 2024 12:02 ET

Russian military invasion

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

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

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

security checks
mandatory evacuation
prohibition of assembly
mandatory mobilization

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

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

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

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

If you are near military activity:

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

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

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

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

If you are able to leave Ukraine safely:

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

Territories illegally occupied by Russia

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

Zaporizhzhia

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

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

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs, particularly:

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

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

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

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

Violent crime

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

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

Women’s safety

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

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

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

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

Advice for women travellers

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

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

Investment fraud

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

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

Scammers often target tourist areas and hotels.

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

Overcharging

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

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

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

Romance scams

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

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

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

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

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

Demonstrations

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

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

Targets could include:

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

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

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

Safety instructions  - State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management

Road safety

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

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

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

Road conditions

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

Public transportation

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

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

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

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

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

Ukrainian airspace is closed.

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

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

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

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

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

Regular Canadian passport

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

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

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

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

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

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

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

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

Other entry requirements

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

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

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

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

Children and travel

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

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

Relevant Travel Health Notices

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

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

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

Routine vaccines

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

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

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

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

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

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

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

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

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The flu occurs worldwide.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe food and water precautions

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

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

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

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

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

Insect bite prevention

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

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

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

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

Animal precautions

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

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

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

Person-to-person infections

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

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

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

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

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

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

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

Medical services and facilities

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

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

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

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

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

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

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

You must abide by local laws.

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

Identification

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

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

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

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

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

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

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Ukraine.

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

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

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

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Mandatory military service (mobilization)

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

International Child Abduction

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

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

If you are in this situation:

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

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

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

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

Surrogacy and adoption

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

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

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

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

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

International adoption – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

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

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

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

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

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

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

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

You must carry an international driving permit

Car insurance is mandatory.

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

International Driving Permit

The currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH).

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

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

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

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

Climate change

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you are in Kherson Oblast:

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

Snow and Ice Storms

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

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

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

Consular assistance

If you are in Ukraine and require consular assistance:

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

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

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

Avoid non-essential travel

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

Avoid all travel

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

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Canada and ukraine.

Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Ukraine. Includes information about coming to Canada.

Canada temporarily suspends in-person services

Due to the Russian military invasion, the Canadian Embassy in Ukraine has temporarily suspended in-person services.

Canadians in need of consular assistance in Ukraine should contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

Learn more about Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine .

Travel advice and advisories - Ukraine

Avoid all travel

Travel advice, passport and entry requirements, health and safety information, and more.

Services and information

Coming to canada.

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Travelling outside of Canada

Travel advice for how to stay safe and returning to Canada.

Living abroad

Everything you need to know to prepare to leave Canada to live in a foreign country.

Canada-Ukraine relations

Learn about Canada’s diplomatic engagement and assistance in Ukraine.

Doing business in Ukraine

Business opportunities, market and sector advantages and other insights.

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Registration of Canadians Abroad
Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

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Canada lists travel risk to Ukraine as extreme, flights affected

By Claire Fenton, Carl Hanstke, Robyn Crawford and Nikitha Martins

Posted February 24, 2022 7:11 am.

Last Updated February 24, 2022 4:23 pm.

Canadians in Ukraine are being told to shelter in place after an attack by Russia by land, sea, and air on Thursday. In its updated advice following the invasion, the Canadian government is also telling its citizens to find the nearest bomb shelter and to keep away from windows.

Canada is warning travel into Ukraine should be avoided due to extreme risk to personal safety, and is also suggesting those who can get out safely do so immediately.

However, travel in and out of Ukraine has been severely affected by the escalating conflict.

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Transport Canada has banned Canadian air operators from the Dnipropetrovsk and Simferopol regions of Ukraine airspace. It is recommending air operators not enter other airspace areas, including over Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa.

Ukraine airspace was cleared not long after Russian troops invaded, and few flights appear to be leaving from Kyiv, the capital city. However, details are sparse following explosions rocking the area at dawn.

All flights are now being forced to detour around Ukraine, and it’s believed that is leading to confusion and delays for travellers.

A flight from Israel to Toronto had to detour sharply from Ukrainian airspace as the attacks began. Passengers say they didn’t know how serious the situation was until they landed and heard the news. The flight was one of only two tracked over the country at the time.

In response to increased risk in Eastern Ukraine, we’ve updated our #NOTAM to prohibit Canadian air operators and owners of aircraft registered in Canada from entering the Dnipropetrovsk and Simferopol regions of #Ukraine airspace — Transport Canada (@Transport_gc) February 24, 2022

“No matter what we are doing today that’s all you’ve got to think about – Ukraine is being invaded. I think everyone was waiting for it and here it is. It’s not just Ukraine, it puts the entire world at an unease, especially Europe,” said one passenger.

A screenshot made available by https://t.co/BKrv8qBcH1 that shows the clear airspace over Ukraine today, not long after Russian troops launched their anticipated attack on Ukraine. – AP @CityNewsVAN pic.twitter.com/iib9QErjTo — Kareem Gouda (@KareemsGouda) February 24, 2022

Previously, the federal government issued an advisory to Canadians in Ukraine to leave that country on Feb. 1, and warned that assisting anyone who remains in Ukraine would be difficult as consular services would likely be limited.

On Thursday, Canada’s embassy had closed and that staff had been relocated to Poland.

Due to the security situation in Ukraine, our diplomatic staff are now in Poland. Consular services remain available to Canadians in Ukraine and we are ready to deploy additional resources should there be a surge in demand. — Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) February 24, 2022

Some experts are advising people to avoid travelling to countries surrounding Russia and Ukraine. Allison Wallace with the Flight Centre notes the concern is the situation could quickly escalate and impact Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia.

“Obviously, the situation is extremely fluid, and it’s just happened, and it’s going to depend on how things evolve. But certainly, the countries bordering the Ukraine, it’s recommended not to be booking travel there right now. In terms of Western Europe, it’s hard to say at this point. There are no travel warnings against it. But nobody really knows how this is going to play out just yet,” she said.

Wallace says while it’s hard to justify someone trying to travel to Eastern Europe; the people most impacted are those who may not have seen family or friends who live in the region since the start of the pandemic.

“Now there’s this added stress of, ‘Will they’d be safe?’ and ‘Is everything going to be okay?’ It’s unfortunate overall … starting to feel that this travel recovery is in place with high vaccination rates and restrictions easing, and then a war breaks out. But keeping everything in perspective, the most important thing is safety.”

The travel industry has taken a significant hit in the past few years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But with restrictions in Canada slowly easing, the sector saw the situation turn as more people became confident travelling. But with the conflict in Ukraine, Wallace says “that’s going to take away some confidence to travelling into Europe, particularly Eastern Europe.”

“It’s certainly challenging, and it’s challenging on a number of fronts, but the travel industry continues to be resilient. However, this is not good news for the people of Ukraine, and it’s not good news for people planning to travel around those bordering countries.”

Most of the travel booked by Canadians in the next couple of weeks is to beach destinations such as Mexico– which Wallace doesn’t anticipate there being any immediate problems.

She says the best thing you can do is keep an eye on Canadian travel advisories, and if the feds decide we should avoid Europe, listen to them.

With files from The Associated Press and Michael Ranger

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Canada extends emergency travel program for Ukrainians fleeing war

Nearly a million ukrainians have applied to the program in the past year.

A man in a suit stands at a podium that bears the Ukrainian flag.

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The federal government is extending a program that temporarily resettles Ukrainians fleeing the war with Russia in Canada.

Ukrainians will now have until July 15, 2023, to apply to the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. The program was set to expire on March 31.

It's a special measure that allows Ukrainians, and their family members of any nationality, to settle in Canada for up to three years. CUAET allows successful applicants to apply for work and study permits free of charge.

Russia and Ukraine have been at war since 2014, but Russia stepped up its invasion significantly in February 2022. The federal government has provided military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine and has slapped sanctions on thousands of Russians and Russian entities.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser made the announcement Wednesday.

"We're going to closely monitor the ongoing needs of Ukrainians and Ukraine, to see how we can continue to lend our support and help win this war," Fraser told a news conference.

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The government has received just under a million applications to the program since it began in March 2022, and has approved 616,429 of them. Over 133,000 people have arrived in Canada through the program.

Fraser said the temporary nature of the program aligns with what Ukrainians want.

"When I speak to the vast majority of Ukrainians who've arrived here, their hope is that Ukraine is going to win this war. They want to go home one day," Fraser said.

"To create a program that allows them to have temporary safe haven in Canada, while we await the circumstances on the ground becoming safe one day for people to return, has allowed us to help tens of thousands of people more than what otherwise would have been the case under a traditional refugee resettlement model."

Fraser did not say whether the government would extend the program if the war continues beyond July 15. He said it will monitor the situation.

Ukrainians in Canada welcome extension

Kseniia Chystiakova, who is from a suburb of Kyiv, applied to CUAET just days after it launched in March 2022. She now lives in Winnipeg with her husband, son and mother.

Chystiakova's father is in Germany because his application hasn't been approved yet, and Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) hasn't offered an explanation. Her mother, who did get approved, initially stayed with her husband but came to Canada last week as the March 31 deadline came closer.

But Chystiakova said she's happy about the extension because it gives her father some time to get approved.

"I want them to be near us and to see their grandchild, but still we have hope that everything will be okay," she said.

A woman in a sweater holds up a phone and smiles.

Chystiakova works at a staffing agency helping other Ukrainians find work. Her husband, who is not a Ukrainian citizen, is taking language classes and her son is enrolled in a local school.

"It's a really great opportunity for him and for his future," Chystiakova said.

"I think that we will stay here."

Fraser made the announcement at Café Ukraine in Ottawa. The community cafe provides services, including language classes, to newcomer Ukrainians and host families.

"We're only able to provide the support for Ukrainians because the government of Canada has generously opened the door for Ukrainians to come and find safe harbour here," Yaroslav Baran, Café Ukraine's co-founder, said at the announcement.

"The announcement that you've made today is a continuation of a long tradition, 130 years, of generous opening of doors by Canada to Ukrainians."

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The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) welcomed the government's announcement.

"Our community is also grateful to the thousands of Canadians from coast to coast to coast who have opened their hearts and their homes to Ukrainians, the volunteers who work tirelessly to welcome Ukrainians in cities and towns across Canada, and the settlement services which deliver essential programs and supports," Alexandra Chyczij, the UCC's national president, said in a media statement .

"With increased support from allies like Canada, this year can be the year that the Russian armies are driven out of Ukraine and peace returns to Europe."

Iain Reeve, associate director for immigration research at The Conference Board of Canada, said CUAET has brought new workers into Canada at a time when the country is facing a labour shortage.

"The Ukrainians come with a really wide variety of skills that can fit really well into a lot of available positions across Canada," Reeve said.

"We see the enthusiasm that a lot of communities have had to welcome people, not just for the really obvious humanitarian benefits, but also because they see the potential labour market and economic benefits of welcoming Ukrainians — even if it is only on a temporary basis."

But Reeve said the government will have to think carefully about the future of those coming in through the program.

"There's a balance to be struck between not wanting to bring a bunch of people here under very difficult circumstances and maybe rob Ukraine of exactly the people that they'll want to have back in the country to help rebuild once the conflict is hopefully over," he said.

"But at the same time, if people want to stay in Canada, maybe we want to try to give them options to do that."

With files from Karen Pauls

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory May 22, 2023

Ukraine - level 4: do not travel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel to High-Risk Areas

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

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

If you are currently in Ukraine:

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

Embassy Message

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry and exit

One page required for entry stamp

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

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

Same as restrictions for entry

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy kyiv.

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

Destination Description

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

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety and Security

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

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

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

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

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

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

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

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

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

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

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

The following diseases are prevalent in Ukraine:

Tuberculosis

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

Further health information:

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

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

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

In case of accidents:

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

Traffic Laws:

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

Public Transportation:

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

See our Road Safety page for more information.

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

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

For additional travel information

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

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

Travel Advisory Levels

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Canada urges avoiding non-essential travel to Ukraine due to 'Russian aggression'

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Ukraine's biggest national flag on the country's highest flagpole is seen at a compound of the World War II museum in Kyiv

Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Bengaluru Editing by Mark Heinrich and Leslie Adler

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Thomson Reuters

Kanishka Singh is a breaking news reporter for Reuters in Washington DC, who primarily covers US politics and national affairs in his current role. His past breaking news coverage has spanned across a range of topics like the Black Lives Matter movement; the US elections; the 2021 Capitol riots and their follow up probes; the Brexit deal; US-China trade tensions; the NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan; the COVID-19 pandemic; and a 2019 Supreme Court verdict on a religious dispute site in his native India.

Aftermath of a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv

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Protests at Columbia University campus in support of Palestinians

Drones above, police at the gates: Columbia protest camp's final moments

Hours after negotiations between administrators and student leaders failed, police arrested dozens of people and cleared out protest encampments that spawned similar demonstrations at colleges around the world.

Former U.S. President Trump's criminal trial on charges of falsifying business records continues in New York

The Netherlands was preparing for its annual World War II remembrance ceremony in Amsterdam on Saturday with restricted public access and heightened security as a result of the war in Gaza.

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Canada allowing Ukrainians overseas to apply for free emergency visa until mid-July

The federal government will give Ukrainians overseas until mid-July to apply for a free temporary visa to Canada under an emergency program put in place last year following Russia's invasion of Ukraine..

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser announced Wednesday that Ukrainians and their family members have until July 15 to apply for a visitor visa, without having to pay a fee, under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel program.

After that date, standard fees and requirements will apply. The previous deadline was March 31.

Complete coverage of the war in Ukraine

The program allows Ukrainians to stay in Canada for up to three years and allows them to work and study while here. The standard period for a visitor visa is six months , with fees starting at $100.

"We remain committed to helping those fleeing Russia's illegal and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine. We continue working to provide Ukrainians with a temporary safe haven and the vital settlement services and supports they need to thrive in communities across Canada," Fraser said in a news release.

"Canada will continue to stand with the people of Ukraine, including those who've been forced to flee Russia's senseless invasion."

The federal government announced the creation of the emergency travel program in March 2022 . It is one of two immigration streams announced for Ukrainians, the other helping those looking to stay permanently in Canada.

Between March 17, 2022, and March 16, 2023, Canada received nearly 944,000 applications under the emergency travel program, of which more than 616,000 have been approved . More than 133,000 people have arrived in Canada as of March 16.

Any Ukrainian with an emergency visa will have until March 31, 2024, to travel to Canada. Visa holders already in Canada can also extend or change their temporary status, free of charge, up until that date.

The federal government will accept applications for one-time financial support , meant to help emergency visa holders transition to Canada, until June 30, 2024.

Up to two weeks of temporary accommodations will also be available until April 14, 2024.

Asked why the federal government has set a deadline for emergency visa applications before the war has ended, Fraser told reporters in Ottawa on Wednesday that Canada would continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine.

Part of the reason for setting time limits, he added, is to help manage the country's immigration system.

"So people who are thinking about coming here, who may be concerned about the situation on the ground, I'd encourage them to apply," Fraser said.

"But we will take decisions based on the conditions on the ground as things progress and we understand what policies may be required to continue to support Ukraine, given what they may be dealing with in the future."

Fraser also said that using a modified version of the country's tourism system, as opposed to refugee resettlement, means there is no limit to how many people the federal government can process in a given year.

"By moving towards a temporary humanitarian visa, we've been able to help significantly larger numbers of people than would have otherwise been the case," he said.

"I'm actually quite pleased with the results despite some lessons we've learned along the way, because we now have a model that can offer temporary protection where it did not exist before. I hope that this can be applied in other circumstances when people do flee a situation that demands temporary protection."

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Stay Connected

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Heavy fighting around key eastern cities; drone attacks reported across Ukraine

Heavy fighting has been reported around the eastern cities of Avdiivka and Bakhmut. Meanwhile, at least six people have been injured after a swarm of Russian drones hit central and northeastern Ukraine.

Saturday 4 May 2024 11:05, UK

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Six injured in drone attacks across Ukraine
Heavy fighting reported around key eastern cities
Russia shoots down 'four US-made long-range missiles' over Crimea
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Analysis: Will US aid help turn tide on Russia?
Your questions answered: Why can't Ukraine destroy key Crimean bridge?
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Live reporting by Ollie Cooper

A Russian suspected cybercrime kingpin has pleaded partially guilty to money laundering charges in the US, Russian state media is reporting.

TASS cited Alexander Vinnik's lawyer as saying that, as a result of the plea bargain, he now expected him to get a prison term of less than 10 years.

"He pleaded guilty on a restricted number of charges," his lawyer reportedly said.

"The culmination of the negotiations was a deal with the prosecutor's office. We expect that the prison term will be up to 10 years."

Vinnik is accused of laundering more than $4bn through the digital currency bitcoin, and was arrested in 2017 in Greece at the request of the US, although Moscow has repeatedly demanded he be returned to Russia.

The US Department of Justice has said Vinnik "allegedly owned, operated, and administrated BTC-e, a significant cybercrime and online money laundering entity that allowed its users to trade in bitcoin with high levels of anonymity and developed a customer base heavily reliant on criminal activity".

The maximum penalty for the charges against Vinnik is 55 years in prison.

Just under 900 Russian soldiers are killed or wounded in Ukraine every single day, the UK's Ministry of Defence has said.

"It is likely that Russia's casualty rate will again increase over the next two months as they renew dedicated offensive operations in easter Ukraine," it said in an intelligence update.

"This follows a slight decrease in the pace of operations over the past two months since the fall of Avdiivka," it added.

The MoD assessed that more than 465,000 Russian losses have recorded since the beginning of the war, with an average so far this year of 899 casualties per day.

As we reported in our 7.23am and 8.24am posts, some 13 Russian drones struck central and northeastern parts of Ukraine overnight.

We can now report that another explosion has been reported, at around 10am local time (8am UK time), according to the city of Kharkiv's mayor.

"An explosion was heard in Kharkiv. Be careful," Igor Terekhov said.

We've no further detail as to what caused it or if there are any casualties, but we'll stay across it.

We've also received some more images of firefights attempting to put out the blazes caused by the drone attack overnight...

Russia has shot down four US-made long-range missiles fired at the Crimean peninsula, the country's defence ministry reports.

It said the missiles were Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) - the kind shipped by Washington to Ukraine in recent weeks.

No further details were shared, and Ukraine has not commented on the claims.

Russian officials similarly claimed on Tuesday that Ukraine had attacked Crimea with ATACMS in an attempt to pierce air defences of the peninsula, which was annexed by Russia in 2014, but that six had been shot down.

ATACMS missiles have a range up to 300km (190 miles).

Russia's defence minister is continuing public duties despite rumours that Vladimir Putin is seeking to punish him for his lack of success in Ukraine.

Sergei Shoigu presented Gold Star medals to "servicemen who showed courage and heroism in carrying out the tasks of a special military operation", according to the ministry, referencing the war in Ukraine.

"The head of the Russian military department congratulated the servicemen, thanked them for their exemplary fulfilment of tasks and wished them further success in their military service," it added.

The Institute for the Study of War had earlier noted a meeting on Thursday between Mr Putin and a regional governor as a potential sign that the president was seeking to undermine Mr Shoigu.

"Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Tula oblast governor and known Wagner Group-affiliate Alexei Dyumin on 2 May, further indicating that Putin may be seeking to reduce Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu's power by balancing him with rivals," it said in a statement.

As we reported in our 7.23am post, some 13 Russian drones struck central and northeastern parts of Ukraine overnight.

These images, from Kharkiv, show firefighters scrambling to put out the resulting blazes.

Heavy fighting is continuing around two key cities to the east of Ukraine.

Kyiv's forces repelled more than 60 attacks in villages near Avdiivka and Bakhmut, Ukraine's general staff of the armed forces said in its morning update.

The US-based thinktank the Institute for the Study of War similarly noted fierce fighting near the settlement of Chasiv Yar, which lies to Bakhmut's west.

A top Ukrainian commander told The Times yesterday that Russia has a 10-to-1 artillery advantage over Ukrainian forces defending the area and holds "total air superiority".

A senior Ukrainian intelligence chief said it's "probably a matter of time" before the settlement falls.

At least six people have been injured after a swarm of Russian drones hit Ukrainian regions overnight.

The Ukrainian air force said Russian forces launched 13 Iranian-made Shahed drones, targeting regions in the northeast and centre of the country.

All of the 13 drones were downed, the air force said, but critical infrastructure, as well as commercial and residential buildings, were damaged in the Kharkiv and Dnipro regions by the resulting falling debris.

A 13-year-old child and a woman are being treated in hospital, according to the governor of Kharkiv, while two other women were treated at one of the sites.

In the industrial Dnipropetrovsk region, two people were wounded.

Hello and welcome back to our coverage of the war in Ukraine.

Here are the key happenings from the past 24 hours:

Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron visited Ukraine, where he told Sky News the UK will appoint a new envoy to oversee a plan to ramp up production of weapons and ammunition, which is now a "national priority";
Russia is planning to launch a three-factor plan to destabilise and claim victory in Ukraine, a top Ukrainian military intelligence officer said;
The Kremlin branded Lord Cameron's comments about Ukraine striking inside Russia "dangerous and worrying";
Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu praised the "new regions" troops have taken control of in Ukraine since the start of the year.

That's it from our live coverage for today - thanks for following along.

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Minister Blair announces additional military assistance for Ukraine at the 21 st meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group

From: National Defence

News release

Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, participated in the 21st Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting, hosted by United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III. The meeting was held virtually on the two-year anniversary of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and brought together representatives from more than 50 countries.

April 26, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, participated in the 21 st Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting, hosted by United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III. The meeting was held virtually on the two-year anniversary of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and brought together representatives from more than 50 countries.

At today’s meeting, Minister Blair announced that Canada is donating $3 million to Ukraine for the production of drones by Ukraine’s domestic defence industry. This marks the first time that Canada is contributing directly to the production of military drones in Ukraine, and this donation will be made in collaboration with the United Kingdom.

Minister Blair also confirmed that Canada is providing an additional contribution of approximately $13 million to Czechia’s initiative to procure and deliver large-calibre ammunition for Ukraine. This contribution comes in addition to last month’s announcement of $40 million and brings Canada’s total contribution to the Czech initiative to over $53 million.

In addition, Minister Blair noted that Canada’s donation of drones from Teledyne FLIR in Waterloo, Ontario, announced in February 2024 , will grow by an additional 100 drones – bringing our total contribution of SkyRanger drones to 900. Delivery of these drones will begin in May.

These donations are funded by the $500 million military assistance package that Prime Minister Trudeau announced in Kyiv on June 12, 2023.[DM1] [AV2]

Minister Blair also provided updates on the delivery of other donations:

The first 10 of 50 Armoured Combat Support Vehicles that Canada will donate to Ukraine will be delivered to Europe this summer. Ukrainians will be trained on the vehicles in the summer, and the vehicles will move to Ukraine in the fall. These vehicles are built by Canadian workers at General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada in London, Ontario.
The 10 Multirole Boats from Zodiac Hurricane Technologies committed in January are set to be delivered this July, including the provision of commercially contracted training for Ukrainian operators, as well as trailers and spare parts; and
As announced earlier this year, Canada has been contributing to Ukraine’s F-16 fighter capability by providing training since February 2024. Canada is providing civilian instructors, planes, and support staff contracted from Montreal-based Top Aces Inc. to support pilot and maintenance personnel training [AV3] [SW4] for Ukraine’s incoming F-16 fleet, under the auspices of the Air Force Capability Coalition. In addition, Canada is providing language training to 14 Ukrainian air force members at the Canadian Forces language school in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec.

Canada’s military assistance to Ukraine demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing Ukrainians with the military aid that they need in their fight against Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable war. As indicated in the Agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine , Canada will continue to support Ukraine for the long-term.

“Ukrainians have been relentless in their fight for freedom, democracy, and the rules-based international order that keeps us all safe. On the two-year anniversary of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, Canada reaffirms that it will stand with Ukraine for as long as victory takes.” - The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

Quick facts

The UDCG was created by the United States Secretary of Defense in April 2022 to allow Allies and partners to synchronize donations, consult, and coordinate military assistance to Ukraine, and build the capabilities of the AFU. Convening monthly at the ministerial level, the UDCG now brings together more than 50 countries.

Canada is a member of the UDCG’s Armour, Air Force, and Drone coalition capabilities, which were established by UDCG members to strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities in particular areas.

Since February 2022, Canada has committed over $4 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. This includes Leopard 2 main battle tanks, armoured combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, small arms, M777 howitzers and associated ammunition, high-resolution drone cameras, winter clothing, and more. Canada is also contributing to multinational efforts to train pilots and maintain and support Ukraine’s F-16s.

Since the launch of Operation UNIFIER, Canada has trained over 40,000 members of the AFU. Canada has announced the extension of this mission until March 2026, so that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) can continue to respond to Ukraine’s urgent training needs.

Canada continues to train AFU members under Operation UNIFIER, with more than 300 CAF members deployed in various roles such as the provision and coordination of training, national command support, and the facilitation and delivery of military donations to Ukraine in coordination with Allies.

Since late March 2022, the CAF has been assisting with the delivery of military aid for Ukraine within Europe from Canada and on behalf of our Allies and partners, transporting over 16 million pounds of military donations to date.

Associated links

Canadian military support to Ukraine
Operation UNIFIER
Agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine
Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Diana Ebadi Press Secretary and Communications Advisor Office of the Minister of National Defence Email: [email protected]

Media Relations Department of National Defence Phone: 613-904-3333 Email : [email protected]

Page details

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Minister Blair announces additional military assistance for Ukraine at
The meeting was held virtually on the two-year anniversary of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and brought together representatives from more than 50 countries. At today's meeting, Minister Blair announced that Canada is donating $3 million to Ukraine for the production of drones by Ukraine's domestic defence industry.

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