Ukraine

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for combined police, fire department, and ambulance service
• Dial 101 for the fire department.
• Dial 102 for police.
• Dial 103 for ambulance service.
• Dial 0800-100-102 for mental health support.
• Dial 7333 for suicide prevention.

Crimea and Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine

Russia has a large military presence in Crimea and parts of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhya, Sumy, Mykolaiv, and Kherson regions. Russia occupies these areas and claims they belong to Russia. The United States, Ukraine, and most countries do not recognize this occupation.

• Russian occupation authorities abuse people and arrest foreigners and residents without good reason. They especially target people they think are challenging Russian control.
• U.S. government employees cannot travel to these regions, and the U.S. government cannot help U.S. citizens there in emergencies.

Do not travel to these areas

U.S. citizens should not travel to the occupied and conflict-affected areas of Crimea and the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhya, Sumy, Mykolaiv, and Kherson regions. This is due to ongoing armed conflict.

• The U.S. government has limited ability to help people in these areas in emergencies.

Dangers in these areas

Armed groups representing Russian occupation authorities have specifically targeted U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens have been threatened, arrested, or kidnapped for hours or days.  

• There are shortages of water, electricity, medicine, and food in Russian-occupied territory. Widespread disorder and looting have been confirmed.

Terrorism

Aerial and Multimethod Attacks in Ukraine

Russian aerial attacks, including ballistic and cruise missiles and one-way attack drones, occur on a daily basis across Ukraine.  These attacks routinely target civilian infrastructure, including residential areas, markets, hospitals, and schools, and result in near-daily civilian fatalities.

Multimethod attacks on military or law enforcement facilities and officials continue to occur throughout Ukraine.  Many of these attacks have secondary or follow-on attacks on the first responders.  Most of these attacks happen at night and seem meant to damage property and scare people.  However, in the past year, several attacks have killed and injured people, including bystanders.  Some of these deadly attacks happened in crowded areas during the day.

Bomb threats

• Bomb threats against public spaces can happen. If you are at a location with a bomb threat, follow all instructions from the local police and security services.

Targets of terrorism

• Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, and trains)

Demonstrations

Large-scale protests have sometimes happened in cities throughout Ukraine. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local news media.
• The U.S. embassy will post information about large, planned protests on the U.S. embassy website.

Crime

Criminals may target tourists due to perceived wealth. The police force is well-trained and typically arrives quickly at the scene.  Police corruption remains an issue. 

• Criminal activity, including burglaries, robberies, muggings, and pickpocketing, was a problem in Ukraine prior to the implementation of martial law.
• Law enforcement and emergency officials rarely speak English, and interpreters are not readily available.
• Muggings, attacks, armed robberies, harassment, or the drugging at bars 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.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

 If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Internet romance and financial scams are common in Ukraine. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers can also pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offer

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 102, through the Ukrainian Cyber police website, and contact the U.S. embassy by dialing +38-044-521-5000.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. The embassy can assist with contacting police and provide you with a list of local shelters.

Current data-security situation in Ukraine

Ukraine faces serious cyber threats that often target people, not just organizations.  These include:

• Links that steal your information
• Fake “support” chats
• Fake charity or aid requests
• Document-sharing traps
• Account takeovers

Ukraine’s national Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-UA) regularly publishes alerts and advice. Recent reports show targeted attacks that use social engineering (like fake charity or aid messages) to install malware or backdoors on your devices.  

• Russian cyber-attacks target aid and logistics networks around Ukraine.  This increases the number of scams and dangerous messages.
• According to the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, pro-Russia hackers attack U.S. and global critical infrastructure using phishing, doxxing, and account takeovers.  
• Ukraine’s cyber authorities warn about the high risk of personal account takeovers. They stress the importance of strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, including for popular messaging apps. Another serious threat is remote SIM replacement, which criminals use to take control of phone numbers linked to bank accounts and steal money.  

Safety tips:  

• Protect your email first. Your email is the “master key” for password resets.  Use a long, unique password and multifactor authentication. Check your logged in devices and sessions at least weekly. 
• Turn on multifactor authentication everywhere. Enable MFA on email, banking, cloud storage, and messengers.  
• Treat QR codes, “support” chats, and “verify your account” messages as dangerous.  
• Use a trusted VPN on public networks. Ukraine’s State Scientific and Research Institute of Cybersecurity Technologies and Information Protection have published VPN safety guidance. This is especially important in areas with filtered or contested networks.  
• If you use digital ID or document apps, protect them. Use a PIN and biometrics and a strong device passcode. The Ukrainian Diia’s app supports PIN and biometrics security. 

If you think your account was hacked:

• Contact your mobile operator immediately from another phone
• Alert your bank(s)
• Change passwords
• Log out of all sessions
• Switch multi-factor authentication off SMS where possible
• Use official reporting channels through your account provider

Mobile device safety

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• GPS may be unreliable in Ukraine due to jamming and drone activity.

Tourism safety

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.
• Stay aware of your surroundings in case of military attacks.
• Martial law currently is in effect in Ukraine. Please verify the hours of curfew for the region you are visiting.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.  If you violate local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, 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.  Some listed prescription medicine allowed in the United States is illegal in Ukraine. If you are convicted you can expect long jail sentences and big fines.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Ukraine seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

Ukrainian law allows police to stop you for any reason and check your identification documents.  Men may be asked to prove their conscription status.

• You are required to always carry your passport. 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 the police stop you for an unclear reason, call the U.S. embassy at +38-044-521 5000.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Gay and lesbian travelers have been the target of harassment, threats, and acts of violence.

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• Accessibility is an issue in Ukraine.
• Public transport systems are not fully accessible to people with disabilities.
• Some newer buildings have ramps and elevators, but older buildings do not.
• Before visiting Ukraine, check ahead with your hotel or destination to learn their options to accommodate disabled traveler needs.
• The law in Ukraine prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is enforced. However, how well it is implemented and how well protection systems work in practice vary.
• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible public facilities, access to information and communication, access to public services and improved ease of movement in urban areas.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, information access, and general infrastructure, especially outside of major cities.
• Accessibility is more common in public transportation, lodging, communication, information access, and general infrastructure in Kyiv and other large cities.  
• Accessibility is generally less developed in smaller cities, towns, and rural areas.  There is a significant difference between the capital, Kyiv, and the rest of the country.
• Cultural norms and public sentiment around disability are gradually becoming more inclusive. However, attitudes may still reflect legacy perceptions shaped during the Soviet period.
• People with disabilities may encounter physical barriers. It is generally acceptable to ask for help. Many people are willing to help, though communication about specific needs may be necessary.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

Anyone with tuberculosis cannot get permanent residency in Ukraine. There are no waivers or exceptions to this rule.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Ukraine Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are available. However, availability depends on location and situation due to wartime conditions.

• If you call the emergency hotline 112 or 103, you will receive a municipal ambulance, which will only take you to a public hospital. 
• To receive a private ambulance to take you to a private hospital, you will need to call the private hospital you are hoping to visit directly. 
• Wartime conditions will affect how quickly an ambulance can reach you. 
• Wartime conditions have affected the level of trained paramedics who serve on ambulatory teams. 
• You may prefer to take a taxi or your own car to the nearest major hospital. However, the hospital could reject you due to lack of correct insurance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Ukraine. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Ukraine.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Due to wartime conditions, the method of payment for services at a hospital can vary.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.  Air evacuation is not possible in Ukraine due to the war.  All medical evacuations must take place overland.

Common diseases

The following diseases are common in Ukraine:

• Influenza
• Tuberculosis

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals at Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy in Ukraine. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Due to wartime conditions, it is possible that public medical clinics will lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Before agreeing to any medical care, particularly in rural areas, gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.
• Some hotels and resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers.  This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff are available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. Be aware that the medical system is different from the United States. Ukraine doesn’t follow the same medical regulations and procedures.

• Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism.  Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Ukraine.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Ukraine.
• Although Ukraine has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely.
• If you plan to undergo surgery in Ukraine, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with Ukrainian Customs (Ukrainian language only) to ensure the medication is legal to bring into the country. Many medications that are legal in the United States are prohibited in Ukraine. (Ukrainian language only) to ensure the medication is legal to bring into the country. Many medications that are legal in the United States are prohibited in Ukraine.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals may be easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

Ukraine has a list every year of registered and unregistered medications.  This will determine if a medication is available for purchase in Ukraine.

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.
• The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

• Exercise caution when purchasing non-traditional medicine, such as herbal remedies.  Local pharmacies might offer herbal remedies.  Some of these might be offered based on Ukrainian standardization, but many herbal remedies are not standardized.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Ukraine to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• Surrogacy is currently legal for heterosexual married foreigners in Ukraine.  For additional information, visit the Government of Ukraine website.  
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Ukraine via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney.  Be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities or citizenship status.
• Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• Due to wartime conditions, please be aware that tap water might no longer be safe. 
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Many restaurants and hotels currently serve bottled water due to the issues with pipes during wartime conditions.  Use ice only when you know it is made from bottled water or verified safe drinking sources.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Tripoli.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Roads outside major urban areas are in bad condition and poorly lit.

• U.S. drivers’ licenses are not valid in Ukraine. If you do not have a foreign driver’s license that meets these requirements, you must obtain either a Ukrainian driver’s license or an International Driving Permit.
• You should always drive defensively.
• Drivers are often poorly trained. Many drivers do not carry a valid driver's license.
• Drivers can be dangerously aggressive.  They often do not respect the rights of pedestrians, even at clearly marked pedestrian crossings. Drivers 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, you must notify police in the event of an accident. Remain at the scene until the police arrive to investigate.
• It is a criminal offense to move the vehicle from the site of the accident unless it presents a clear safety concern. Causing traffic jams 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 can be issued. Once a court decision has been made regarding responsibility, the original driver’s licenses can be recovered from police. Note that in most 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, 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 cellphone or texting while driving is illegal.
• Do not turn right at a red light, unless there is a special green arrow sign attached to the stoplight.
• Front seat belts are mandatory.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Well-marked taxis and ride share apps are frequently used and are considered generally safe.
• Only use marked taxis. When you call to order a taxi by phone, they will tell you the price upfront. If you flag down a taxi on the street, agree on the price with the driver before you get in.
• Do not sit in the front seat of the taxi.
• Do not enter a taxi with unknown passengers, or travel to unfamiliar areas.

Public and commercial transportation

• Buses, trams, and metro are widely used.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

Ukrainian airspace is currently closed. 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Ukraine meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

The U.S. Coast Guard is unable to determine if effective anti-terrorism measures are in place in Ukrainian ports as required by 46 U.S. Code § 70108.  Mariners and passengers traveling through Ukrainian ports should exercise caution and implement enhanced security measures.

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Ukraine should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather condititons

Ukraine has a temperate continental climate with seasons and regional weather variations.

• Winters are cold, summers are warm to hot, and spring and autumn are transitional and sometimes unpredictable.
• Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions rather than consistent stability.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates