Ukraine travel advice

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Ukraine - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Avoid all travel to Ukraine due to the Russian military invasion.

Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

On October 10, 2022, Russia launched numerous missile strikes against Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv. The attack resulted in several casualties.

If you are in Ukraine, shelter in a secure place until it’s safe for you to leave.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited.

Useful links

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Safety and security

Russian military invasion

On October 10, 2022, Russia attacked 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 on a daily basis. Thousands of civilian casualties have been reported. 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 to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Security conditions are deteriorating rapidly. Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

If you are in Ukraine, you should shelter in a secure place unless it is safe for you to leave the country.

On June 6, 2023, the Kakhovka dam located on the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast ruptured, leading to major downstream flooding. Many towns and settlements currently face flooding with additional ones at risk. Thousands of residents are without access to basic services, potable water, and electricity. Unexploded ordnance could be swept downriver and into flooded areas. Evacuation orders are in place between the dam site and Bilozerka, directly West of the city of Kherson. Evacuation sites are reportedly being shelled resulting in civilian casualties. 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
  • exercise caution
  • monitor local news and weather reports
  • use only bottled water for drinking and cooking

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 such as:

  • curfews
  • security checks
  • mandatory evacuation
  • prohibition of assemblies
  • mandatory mobilization and exit ban

Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including curfews and evacuation orders.

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 most likely prevented from leaving the country.

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

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 in Ukraine:

  • shelter in a hardened structure and stay away from windows
  • identify the location of the closest bomb shelter
  • maintain a supply of basic food, water and medications
  • monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
  • follow the instructions of local authorities including curfews and evacuation orders
  • ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
  • review your personal security plans on a daily basis
  • 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

If you are able to leave Ukraine safely:

  • use your judgement to decide the best time and the safest means of exit
  • study your itinerary in detail to avoid areas where fighting is taking place
  • verify your destination’s entry requirements regularly since many neighbour countries are adjusting them
  • expect highly congested routes, checkpoints and delays
  • make sure to stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
  • ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
  • bring sufficient gasoline if you use your car
  • monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation

Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Crimea

The Russian Federation has illegally occupied and annexed Crimea. The area is heavily militarized and Russian authorities have strict control over the area.

Canada doesn’t recognize Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and continues to consider Crimea to be sovereign Ukrainian territory. The Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow is only accredited to Russia and therefore cannot provide services in Crimea.

Due to the ongoing situation, the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine in Kyiv has extremely limited access to consular clients.

Useful links

Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts

Russian-backed separatists continue to control sections of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

There is a de facto dividing line, known as the Contact Line, between Ukrainian government-controlled areas (Government Controlled Areas, GCA) and separatist-held areas (Non-Government Controlled Areas, NGCA) of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. There are managed crossing points across the contact line in both oblasts.

Non-Government Controlled Areas (NGCA)

The security situation in the NGCA, and the area within 20 km from the contact line inside the GCA, remains unstable due to armed conflict, including direct and indirect fire. There are occasional bombings in the NGCA.

There are numerous checkpoints controlled by separatist forces within the NGCA. Separatist groups have sometimes threatened, detained or kidnapped individuals at NGCA checkpoints.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in the NGCA of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts is extremely limited.

Government Controlled Areas (GCA)

There are numerous checkpoints controlled by government forces within the GCA.

Uncleared minefields and other remnants of war are present in numerous areas of the oblasts, especially in rural areas.

If you intend to travel in either of the oblasts despite the advisories, it is highly recommended you mitigate risks by conducting secure route planning, consulting with local authorities and/or experienced local partners, and monitoring the security situation where you are travelling.

If you are in the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts:

  • maintain a low profile
  • be vigilant at all times
  • avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
  • follow the instructions of local authorities
  • monitor local media for the latest information

Useful links

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is common, particularly:

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

In central Kyiv, criminal activity, including muggings, 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 racialized communities. Local authorities may not respond to racially motivated violence and harassment.

Armed robbery can occur, especially in the larger cities.

Weapons, including small arms and explosives, are present in all areas of the country. On occasion, personal disputes between individuals may involve the use of these weapons. Violent incidents, such as shootings, can occur in both residential and public areas. Tourists are not particularly targeted, but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant.

Bombings and bomb threat hoaxes

Small-scale targeted bombings, including car bombs, have on occasion occurred in Ukraine, including in Kyiv. Attacks are generally linked to criminal activity or are politically motivated with the intent to damage property. Some attacks have resulted in casualties. There is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Always be alert when in public places.

Bomb threat hoaxes are common and can target any location, including, but not limited to:

  • shopping malls
  • transportation hubs
  • government facilities
  • schools
  • public spaces

If you are in an area affected by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities and evacuate calmly.

Fraud

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

  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • use ATMs located inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • 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. 

Scams

Scammers often target tourist areas and hotels.

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Stay alert to possible street scams. One common scam involves 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 crooks, some posing as police officers. If this happens to you, don’t pick up the dropped items. Simply walk away without engaging in conversation.

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Ukraine to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Terrorism

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.

Chornobyl

Following the disaster at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, 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

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities outside major centres aren’t usually highly developed. Plan ahead to minimize safety risks.

Road safety

Travel by road can be hazardous. Most roads outside major cities are poorly maintained. Drivers are often aggressive and have little regard for traffic regulations. 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.

Public transportation

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

At airports, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth within the arrivals terminal or use a trusted ride-sharing app.

Don’t hail a taxi on the street. Instead, order one from your hotel or use a trusted ride-sharing app. Negotiate fares in advance, as you may be overcharged.

Exercise caution on trains, particularly at night, due to the risk of robbery and muggings. Store personal belongings and travel documents in a safe place and don’t leave the compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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Entry and exit requirements

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.

Passport

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.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Visas

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.

Useful links

Other entry requirements

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

Crimea and Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts

Ukrainian authorities will refuse entry to foreigners who attempt to enter Ukraine from Russia through Crimea or separatist-controlled areas in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

If you choose to travel to these areas despite the current risk level, you must first obtain a special permit from Ukrainian authorities. To travel to Crimea, permission is required from the State Migration Service of Ukraine. To travel to the Non-Government Controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, one needs a special permit from the Security Service of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government requires that this permit be presented, along with your passport, at designated checkpoints along the administrative boundary of the occupied Ukrainian territory.

If you don’t enter Crimea or Non-Government Controlled Areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts through the designated Ukrainian checkpoints, you will be banned from entering Ukraine in the future.

Children and travel

Children under the age of 16 who are travelling outside Ukraine without one or both parents, and who are travelling on a Ukrainian passport, require a notarized letter of consent from the parent or parents who are not travelling.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

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

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Health

Relevant Travel Health Notices

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. 

Measles

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

 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.

COVID-19

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.

Influenza

 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.

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

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.

Risk

  • 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

Hepatitis A

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

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.

Rabies

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). 

Polio

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak. Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Recommendations:

  • Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
  • One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult.

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

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

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. Doctors and nurses may not be able to communicate in English (or French) and not all hospitals have translation services available.

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.

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Laws and culture

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

Drugs

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 or other government buildings.

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.

Travellers with dual citizenship

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.

Useful links

Surrogacy

If you’re planning to visit Ukraine for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy 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.

It is also recommended that you 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.

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

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

Driving

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

Money

The currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH).

Credit cards are accepted in most major cities. Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and licensed exchange booths.

Customs

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.

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Natural disasters and climate

Wildfires

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

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. The conditions can also limit the ability of first responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

Flooding

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

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Need help?

Local services

Emergency services

In case of emergency, dial:

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

Consular assistance

The Embassy of Canada to Ukraine, in Kyiv, has temporarily suspended in-person services due to the security situation.

If you are in Ukraine and require consular assistance:

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

Kyiv - Embassy of Canada
Street Address13A Kostelna Street, Kyiv 01901, UkraineTelephone380 (44) 590-3100Fax380 (44) 590-3134Emailkyiv-consular@international.gc.caInternethttps://www.Canada.ca/Canada-And-UkraineFacebookEmbassy of Canada to UkraineTwitter@CanEmbUkraineOther social mediaEmbassy of Canada to Ukraine

Disclaimer

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.

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