Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Ukraine depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for UkraineEmergency Numbers
- General
- 112
Currency
- Name
- Ukrainian Hryvnia
- Code
- UAH
- Symbol
- ₴
ATMs in Kyiv and western cities. Cards accepted in Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa. NOTE: Ukraine is in an active war with Russia (since February 2022). All Western governments advise against travel to Ukraine. This entry covers pre-war context and is provided for informational interest only — do not travel until the conflict ends and your government's advisory changes.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type F
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) — EEST (UTC+3) in summer
Best Time to Visit
Pre-war: May–June and September–October were ideal for Kyiv, Lviv, and the Carpathians. Lviv's old town (UNESCO) and Kyiv's Lavra Monastery were among Eastern Europe's finest. The Carpathian mountains offered excellent hiking and skiing. Travel is not possible during the current conflict.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | Tip in cash — appreciated |
| Taxis | Round up | Uber and Bolt operated in major cities |
| Hotels | UAH 50–100 for porters | — |
Dress Code
- Casual throughout
- Modest dress in Orthodox churches — cover shoulders and knees; women cover hair
Social Etiquette
- Ukrainians have a strong, distinct cultural identity separate from Russia — this distinction matters enormously and is not a political point but a lived reality
- Hospitality is warm and generous — food and drink are always offered to guests
- Vyshyvanka (embroidered shirt) is a cultural symbol of Ukrainian identity — worn with great pride
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- CRITICAL: Ukraine is in active armed conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion (February 2022). All Western governments advise against travel. Do not visit until the conflict ends and safety is restored.
- Martial law is in force — all males aged 18–60 may be subject to mobilisation rules
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Ukrainian) | Привіт / Доброго дня (Pryvit / Dobroho dnya) | pree-VEET / dob-ROH-hoh DNYAH |
| Thank you (Ukrainian) | Дякую (Dyakuyu) | DYAH-koo-yoo |
| Please (Ukrainian) | Будь ласка (Bud' laska) | bood LAHS-kah |
| Glory to Ukraine! (Ukrainian) | Слава Україні! (Slava Ukraini!) | SLAH-vah oo-KRAH-ee-nee — national salute |
| Cheers! (Ukrainian) | Будьмо! (Bud'mo!) | BOOD-moh |
Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to Ukraine?
Traveller builds your personalised packing list, checklist, and travel brief in seconds.
Plan this trip with Traveller