Ukraine Travel Advices
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
We advise you to exercise caution and monitor developments that might affect your safety in Ukraine because of the risk of civil unrest. Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
You should avoid demonstrations and public gatherings as they may turn violent.
There have been reports of racially motivated violence, across the country but mostly in Kyiv.
Crime
The rate of crime is increasing in Ukraine. Robbery, pickpocketing and bag snatching occur regularly particularly on public transport, at crowded markets, in popular tourist areas and in bars and nightclubs. Drink spiking, with the intention of robbing the victim while incapacitated, has been reported. Street scams are common. One such scam involves the perpetrator dropping a wallet on the ground to engage and distract a victim before robbing them. Criminals are known to target foreigners.
There has been an increase in racially motivated attacks by skinhead groups against foreigners, particularly people of Asian, African or other non-European descent.
Local Travel
You are required to carry your passport with you at all times. Foreigners may be stopped by local police and asked to present passports and visas.
Foreign drivers must possess a valid international driver’s licence. Drivers must be able to produce either an original ownership certificate, rental contract or a power of attorney from the owner of the car.
Driving in the Ukraine can be hazardous. Roads outside major cities are of a low standard and poorly lit. Drivers can be aggressive and ignore the road rules. Pedestrians should take particular care as drivers may not stop at crossings or attempt to park on sidewalks. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road Safety.
Money and Valuables
Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers’ cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas. There have been reports of credit card scams, especially related to the use of ATMs. We advise you to be vigilant when using your credit card and limit its use to respectable commercial establishments and ATMs in secure locations (such as inside banks).
Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers’ cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.
While travelling, don’t carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.
Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.
You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.
Local Laws
When you travel in Ukraine, be aware that local laws and penalties do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Government will do what it can to help you but we can’t get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Driving with a blood alcohol level greater than zero is an offence.