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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 .

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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]

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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.

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Ukraine expects more vaccines, plans new rules for unvaccinated travellers

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The Russian Defence Ministry said on Saturday that its forces had carried out 35 strikes in the last week against Ukrainian energy facilities, defence factories, railway infrastructure, air defences, and ammunition stocks.

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COVID‐19 vaccination in Ukraine: An update on the status of vaccination and the challenges at hand

Lolita matiashova.

1 L.T. Mala NIT NAMSU, Kharkiv Ukraine

Ganna Isayeva

Aparajeya shanker.

2 Faculty of Medicine,  Medical University, Pleven Bulgaria

Christos Tsagkaris

3 Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion Greece

Abdullahi Tunde Aborode

4 Research and Development, Oli Health Magazine Organization, Kigali Rwanda

Mohammad Yasir Essar

5 Medical Research Center, Kateb University, Kabul Afghanistan

Shoaib Ahmad

6 Punjab Medical College, Faisalabad Pakistan

Dear Editor,

The first case of COVID‐19 in Ukraine was confirmed on March 3, 2020. 1 At the time of this study (March 2021), the number of cases of COVID‐19 in Ukraine was 1.4 million cases, with mortality calculated at 27 480. 2 Since March 12, 2020, Ukraine has experienced quarantine with varying levels of lockdown. Polls suggest that 90% of Ukrainians feel that the COVID‐19 pandemic has changed their lives. 3 The authorization of COVID‐19 vaccines has created hope for the restoration of normal life. However, COVID‐19 vaccination efforts face several intrinsic and extrinsic issues in Ukraine. The Ukrainian parliament intended to pass legislation on rapid registrations of COVID‐19 vaccines till the end of January 2021. 4 , 5

On February 1, 2021, the Ministry of Health of Ukraine presented a SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination plan for the population (Table  1 ). The plan consisted of five stages of vaccination, with medical workers and the military forces of Ukraine being the first to receive vaccines. Ukraine received the first deliveries of vaccines in February 2021. 6 The European Union has promised to provide Ukraine with vaccines, because Ukraine is a member of the GAVI alliance, a global vaccine alliance between international bodies such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, governments, research institutions, private companies, charities, and civil society. 7 However, media reports in Ukraine claimed that the Government of Ukraine would buy COVID‐19 vaccines at an inflated price, leading to public outrage and protests, which resulted in reduction in vaccine confidence. 8 , 9 , 10

The Ukrainian vaccination plan per population group

It seems that if Ukrainians wish to get vaccinated for free, they will have to wait for their turn or for the second half of 2021, and if Ukrainians wish to be vaccinated earlier, then they have to pay for it personally. 11 According to a survey of the sociological group “Rating,” 55% of Ukrainians are ready to take a SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine, if it is provided for free. If the vaccine is paid out‐of‐pocket, then the number of Ukrainians ready for vaccination decreases to 35%. 11

Currently, an active campaign is underway to educate the population about the safety of vaccines, with Ukraine being at the initial stage of vaccination against SARS CoV‐2. Many contracts have been signed, and others are still in progress. The percentage of Ukrainians ready for vaccination is not high. Misinformation in the media and the promotion of the anti‐vaccine movement aggravate the situation. In addition, the problem of vaccination can be associated with mistrust of the policy and issues of procurement of vaccines.

It is also noteworthy that the number of Ukrainians willing to take a flu vaccine in 2020 was also low. At the same time, not all Ukrainians adhere to the rules of adaptive quarantine, which contributes to a high level of infection rates. Perhaps, the first wave of vaccination will change the opinion of Ukrainians, when politicians and certain public figures will also be vaccinated, showing by their example the safety of the vaccine. The vaccination plans of Ukraine are influenced by the interplay of the economy and international relations. 10 At the national level, the implementation of a massive pan‐Ukrainian vaccination plan is only achievable in the second half of 2021. 12 This is also a point to reflect on the unequal COVID‐19 vaccine distribution in the WHO Europe region and compare it with the experience from Africa and the Middle East. 13

This is in stark contrast to other Eastern European countries, where mass vaccination programs began as early as January 2021. Given the reports of breaching this right in other official and unofficial contexts of health care, 14 COVID‐19 vaccination can serve as a standstill to rethink this policy and either fully implement it or abolish it.

There is a high incidence of coronavirus infections in Ukraine. Vaccination is an urgent issue, especially among healthcare workers. It is expected that at least half of the Ukrainian population will be ready to be vaccinated against COVID‐19, if vaccines become freely available in a timely manner.

CONFLICT OF INTERESTS

The authors declare that there are no conflict of interests.

AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS

Lolita Matiashova, Ganna Isayeva, Aparajeya Shanker, and Christos Tsagkaris conceptualized this letter. Christos Tsagkaris, Aparajeya Shanker, and Lolita Matiashova wrote the first draft. Abdullahi T. Aborode and Ganna Isayeva wrote the second draft. Mohammad Y. Essar and Shoaib Ahmad made the critical comments and revision. All authors revised and approved the final draft.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Ukraine

Ukraine is a small country nestled among Europe’s mountains and forests. It blends a perfect mixture of green trees, rolling mountains and clean seasides. Ukraine is an ideal destination for anyone seeking fun and new experiences.

Kyiv rests along the Dnieper River. Scattered across the city are religious monuments with classic architecture and underground catacombs. If this rich history isn’t what you crave in the Ukraine, Kyiv offers many other opportunities for fun. The city is also home to recreational activities like water-parks and the Kyiv Zoo.

Ukraine is also a popular spot among snowboarders and skiers. Bukovel is a large, popular ski resort in the country. This resort hosts skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking and more. The Carpathian National Nature Park is also nearby. Other popular, nearby ski resorts include Drahobrat and more.

Whether it’s a breath of history or a trip down a mountain, Ukraine offers a little bit of everything.

Do I Need Vaccines for Ukraine?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Ukraine. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Ukraine: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , Tickborne encephalitis , rabies , polio and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Tickborne Encephalitis – Ticks or Unpasteurised Products – Transmission is widespread. Spread is most common from early spring to late autumn.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Polio – Food & Water – Cases have been found in the region in recent years. Recommended for some travellers. Single adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Sporadic cases of polio have been found in Ukraine. Ensure you’re vaccinated before your trip. Routine vaccinations are recommended for all travellers.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Do I Need a Visa For Ukraine?

UK citizens may enter Ukraine without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180 day period. Proof of financial means may be required at entry. Passports must be valid for the duration of stay.

Sources: Embassy of Ukraine and GOV.UK

What Is The Climate Like In Ukraine?

Ukraine experiences all four seasons. Weather varies by what time of the year it is.

Winters hover around freezing and can bring heavy snowfall. Summers heat can reach the low-30’s at peak times. Rains are common throughout the year with snowfall in winter.

How Safe Is Ukraine?

There have been some politically and ideologically motivated terrorist attacks in the Ukraine. The UK government and other organisations recommend taking extra precautions whilst in country. Avoid public demonstrations and avoid taking a public opinion on politics, especially in relation to Russia.

Avoid the Crimea area during your trip. Military operations are underway on an ongoing basis.

Crime also occurs in Ukraine, the most common being robberies, pick-pocketing and mugging. Crimes are common near nightspots, on public transportation. Corridors, lifts and stairwells provide cover for these activities.

Tourists may be targeted if they display wealth or expensive things. The local police are known for being corrupt. Be careful when interacting with law enforcement and always request to see a badge. Note, law enforcement and some emergency responders may not speak English.

Travelling Within Ukraine

While Ukraine is a charming, colorful country, there are some locations to avoid. The Crimean is currently occupied by the Russian Federation. Take extra precautions in this region.

There is conflict in parts of eastern Ukraine. Avoid travel to Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts as Russian-supported separatists control the area. In these regions, travellers may face gunmen posing as self-named authorities. These individuals specialise in kidnapping and extortion.

The Ukrainian government has also struggled to provide support to these areas. There are reports of water, power, food and medicine shortages. This has lead to looting in some areas. If you plan to travel across Ukraine, avoid from these locations.

What Should I Pack for Ukraine?

Ukraine offers a very peculiar experience to travellers. Ensure you’re prepared with these handy, must-pack items.

• Warm Clothing – Depending on when you visit Ukraine, the weather can be a bit cold. Even in the warmer months, the evenings might get chilly, especially if you are close to the mountains. Packing a few jackets and jumpers will help you stay as warm and comfortable as possible.
• Camera – Ukraine is a highly picturesque destination in Europe. Whether it’s peculiar architecture or adventures, you may want to take pictures. Never photograph military installations or staff. You may be detained for doing so.
• Ski or Snowboard Gear – Consider bringing your own equipment with you to Ukraine. Local equipment may be less safe and you will feel more comfortable on your own gear.
• Toilet Paper – Some public don’t always have toilet paper. Pack some and keeping a little on your person. Also, consider bringing a traveller’s diarrhoea kit to avoid any unwanted problems.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Ukraine

If you are in Ukraine and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Kyiv 9, Desyatynna St. Kyiv 01901 Ukraine Telephone: +380 44 490 3660 Emergency Phone: +380 44 490 3660 Fax: +380 44 490 3662 Email: [email protected]

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines For Ukraine? Do I Need a Visa For Ukraine? What Is The Climate Like In Ukraine? How Safe Is Ukraine? Travelling Within Ukraine What Should I Pack for Ukraine? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Ukraine

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• Polio, or poliomyelitis, has been eliminated from most of the world. But it still occurs in some countries.
• Travelers to countries where there is an increased risk of exposure to poliovirus may receive a one-time booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) before traveling.

People who plan to travel internationally should make sure they are fully vaccinated against polio before departure. When visiting one of the countries where there is an increased risk of exposure to poliovirus, you may be required by the government of that country to show proof of polio vaccination on your yellow International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) when departing that country.

Vaccination for International Travelers

CDC recommends that all infants and children in the United States are vaccinated against polio with four doses of IPV given at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6–18 months, and 4–6 years. Infants and children traveling to  countries where the risk of getting polio is greater  should complete the routine series before departure.

If a child cannot complete the routine series before departure, an accelerated schedule is recommended as follows:

• First dose at age 6 weeks or older
• A second dose 4 or more weeks after the first dose
• A third dose 4 or more weeks after the second dose
• A fourth dose 6 or more months after the third dose

If the accelerated schedule cannot be completed before leaving, the remaining doses should be given in the visited country, or upon return home, at the intervals recommended in the accelerated schedule.

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Visit CDC’s Travelers’ Health Notices  site to see the most current information about polio around the world and what special steps you need to take to protect yourself or a loved one from polio while traveling.

More Information About Polio Vaccination

• Polio Vaccination: What Everyone Should Know
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• Global Immunization
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US measles cases are up in 2024. What’s driving the increase?

FILE - In this March 27, 2019, file photo, a woman receives a measles, mumps and rubella vaccine at the Rockland County Health Department in Pomona, N.Y. Measles outbreaks in the U.S. and abroad are raising health experts’ concern about the preventable, once-common childhood virus. The CDC on Thursday, April 11, 2024 released a report on recent measles case trends, noting that cases in the first three months of this year were 17 times higher than the average number seen in the first three months of the previous three years. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

This undated image made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Feb. 4, 2015 shows an electron microscope image of a measles virus particle, center. Measles outbreaks in the U.S. and abroad are raising health experts’ concern about the preventable, once-common childhood virus. The CDC on Thursday, April 11, 2024 released a report on recent measles case trends, noting that cases in the first three months of this year were 17 times higher than the average number seen in the first three months of the previous three years. (Cynthia Goldsmith/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via AP)

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Measles outbreaks in the U.S. and abroad are raising health experts’ concern about the preventable, once-common childhood virus.

One of the world’s most contagious diseases, measles can lead to potentially serious complications. The best defense, according to experts? Get vaccinated.

Here’s what to know about the year — so far — in measles.

How many measles cases has the U.S. seen this year?

Nationwide, measles cases already are nearly double the total for all of last year.

The U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention documented 113 cases as of April 5. There have been seven outbreaks and most of U.S. cases — 73% — are linked to those flare-ups.

Still, the count is lower than some recent years: 2014 saw 667 cases and 2019 had 1,274.

Why is this a big deal?

The 2019 measles epidemic was the worst in almost three decades, and threatened the United States’ status as a country that has eliminated measles by stopping the continual spread of the measles virus.

The CDC on Thursday released a report on recent measles case trends, noting that cases in the first three months of this year were 17 times higher than the average number seen in the first three months of the previous three years.

While health officials seem to be doing a good job detecting and responding to outbreaks, “the rapid increase in the number of reported measles cases during the first quarter of 2024 represents a renewed threat to elimination,” the report’s authors said.

Where is measles coming from?

The disease is still common in many parts of the world, and measles reaches the U.S. through unvaccinated travelers.

According to Thursday’s report, most of the recent importations involved unvaccinated Americans who got infected in the Middle East and Africa and brought measles back to the U.S.

Where were this year’s U.S. measles outbreaks?

Health officials confirmed measles cases in 17 states so far this year, including cases in New York City, Philadelphia and Chicago.

More than half of this year’s cases come from the Chicago outbreak, where 61 people have contracted the virus as of Thursday, largely among people who lived in a migrant shelter .

The city health department said Thursday that cases are on the decline after health officials administered 14,000 vaccines in just over a month.

How does measles spread?

Measles is highly contagious. It spreads when people who have it breathe, cough or sneeze and through contaminated surfaces. It also can linger in the air for two hours.

Up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed, according to the CDC.

Measles used to be common among kids. How bad was it?

Before a vaccine became available in 1963, there were some 3 million to 4 million cases per year, which meant nearly all American kids had it sometime during childhood, according to the CDC. Most recovered.

But measles can be much more than an uncomfortable rash, said Susan Hassig, an infectious disease researcher at Tulane University.

“I think that people need to remember that this is a preventable disease,” Hassig said. “It is a potentially dangerous disease for their children.”

In the decade before the vaccine was available, 48,000 people were hospitalized per year. About 1,000 people developed dangerous brain inflammation from measles each year, and 400 to 500 died, according to the CDC.

Is the measles vaccine safe? Where do vaccination rates stand?

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective . It is a routine and recommended childhood vaccine that is split into two doses.

Research shows it takes a very high vaccination rate to prevent measles from spreading: 95% of the population should have immunity against the virus.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, national vaccination rates for kindergartners fell to 93% and remain there. Many pockets of the country have far lower rates than that . The drop is driven in part by record numbers of kids getting waivers .

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Vaccine clinic on wheels: Rockland adds ways to get immunized amid national measles surge

Rockland County has added a mobile vaccination unit to its childhood vaccination efforts.

The new vaccination clinic on wheels comes as cases of measles are climbing worldwide, in the U.S. and in New York.

While Rockland has not seen a case of measles this year, the county managed a measles outbreak in 2018 and 2019. In 2022, Rockland County also saw the first case of polio in the U.S. in decades.

The van, purchased with federal COVID funds, is already up and running. The idea, county spokesperson Beth Cefalu has said, is to get the shots to where they're needed.

Plans for community visits could include sites in East Ramapo school district, county officials said. The greater Spring Valley area is home to a large new immigrant community and the district has reported many new enrollees from Haiti, Central and South America. Often, kids arrive without vaccination records from their home country. Providing on-site shots could help kids catch up and ensure they meet state vaccination regulations for school attendance.

Vaccination rates have slipped in recent years, for various reasons, all over.

Rockland County, though, has long had its own challenges with pockets of low childhood vaccination rates.

Urgency amid Rockland's vulnerability

As of April 18, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had documented 125 measles cases across the U.S. in 2024. That includes three cases in New York; two in NYC and one in Nassau County, according to the New York State Department of Health.

Rockland County remains vulnerable, county officials have said.

In 2018-2019, Rockland witnessed a measles outbreak that ultimately sickened 312; there were 649 cases found in New York City.

“To successfully prevent measles from resurfacing in this county we need cooperation from all communities,” County Executive Ed Day said in a statement.

Polio: Rockland hits full year with no virus found in wastewater

In July 2022, a Monsey man suffered permanent paralysis from polio, an outcome often feared before a vaccine came into use in the early 1960s. The man had not traveled outside the U.S.

Wastewater testing showed the polio virus had been present for months. Subsequent testing of sewage treatment systems around downstate New York have not shown the virus' presence since February 2023.

Focus on upping immunization numbers

County officials have been focused on upping immunization rates since the measles outbreak in the last teens, throughout COVID and through the recent polio scare.

The county's health department recently launched a childhood immunization campaign .

Cefalu said that Rockland Health Department clinics have seen an increase in visits by 50% between 2021 and 2023.

Still, as of Aug. 1, 2023, New York state health records showed pockets of low polio vaccination rates among Rockland County children age 2 and under. For example, in the 10952 ZIP code, which covers the greater Monsey area, just 41.4% of babies and toddlers were vaccinated against polio; in the 10977 postal code, the Spring Valley area, the polio vaccination rate was 55.9%.

How to get vaccinated

Rockland County clinics provide free vaccines through the Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults programs. Find out about eligibility at 845-364-2520/2524. 

Clinic appointments are available by appointment (call 845-364-2520 to schedule) at the following times and locations:

• 8:30-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at Rockland County Department of Health Clinic, Yeager Center Building A, 2nd floor Rotunda area, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, NY 10970.
• 8:30-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Rockland County Department of Health Spring Valley Clinic, 14 S. Main St., Spring Valley, NY 10977.

Go to health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization for more information about vaccines.