Ukraine: New Restrictions on the Duration of the Foreigner’s Stay in Ukraine

[AlexMc]

I thought it could be interesting for many in the forum. I received it from my lawyers.


Ukraine: New Restrictions on the Duration of the Foreigner’s Stay in Ukraine

On May 15, 2009 the new rules governing the entry and duration of stay
by foreigners in Ukraine were introduced by the Cabinet of Ministers
of Ukraine. The amendments were introduced to the Rules for Entry of
Foreigners into Ukraine, Transit Through and Exit From Ukraine
introduced by the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 1074 of
December 29, 1995. Ackermann, Goltsblat & Partners can provide you
with the full text of the relevant changes in Ukrainian or English
upon your first request.

The new rules provide for the following:

- limiting short-term stays to 90 days within the 180-day period from
the date of first entry for citizens of visa-free countries and
citizens of WTO member countries: this ends the privileged 180-day
stay regime that existed for such foreigners in Ukraine before.
Ackermann, Goltsblat & Partners can advise and assist foreign
nationals what do in cases when you exceed 90 day period without a
visa in Ukraine.

- limiting stays by citizens of other countries to the duration of
their visas but no more than 90 days within the 180-day period from
the date of first entry. Ackermann, Goltsblat & Partners can advise
and assist foreign nationals how to extend their visas in and outside
of Ukraine.

- requiring nationals of various countries in Central and Eastern
Asia, Africa and South America and some others (as listed in the
Rules), to provide confirmation of their financial capacity to cover
their stay in Ukraine. This requirement will be controlled by the
border guards through sample checks conducted during an interview at
the point of entry to Ukraine. Ackermann, Goltsblat & Partners can
advise and assist foreign nationals how to comply with this new
requirement.

Foreign nationals wishing to extend the period of stay and avoid a
fine for overstaying (ranging from UAH340 to UAH 680), must submit a
written application, together with a statement from their hosting
party, to their local branch of the State Department of Immigration,
Citizenship, and Registration of Natural Persons (OVIR) at least 3
business days before the end of the 90-day period. In addition, such
foreign national can be banned from entering Ukraine from 6 months to
5 years. Ackermann, Goltsblat & Partners can advise and assist
foreign nationals how to legally extend their period of stay in
Ukraine and avoid application of any sanctions for minor violations.

For further information, please contact: Igor Goltsblat at
igor.goltsblat@gmail.com

[Lvivske]

great rules!

[bubyshka]

thanks Alex I found that most interesting...... as i thought i might like to go visit ukraine, and was not certain for how long i can stay etc......
cheers buby

[Rob_Burns]

Thanks, Alex. This is most helpful and insightful summary of the rules I have read so far.

[Svizzera_EU]

Hello. I have a Swiss and EU Passport do I need a Visa to enter the Ukraine?

Thank you for your help.

[Svizzera_EU]

Originally Posted by Kathy

Welcome to the board, Svizzera. No, you do not need a visa, but you can only stay for 90 days.

Why did the Ukraine decide to shorten the duration of stay for foreigners. Tourists are a vital income to Ukraine shouldn't the Ukraine be as welcoming as possible to allow stronger attraction of tourists to the country from abroad? Or is this a sign of Ukraine aligning their Immigration procedures with the EU?

[TheToad]

Something I'm not totally clear on and the consulate were unable to answer. I am about to obtain a 6 month visa in order to stay in Ukraine for about 5 months. But the consulate wasn't sure if I had to exit after 90 days even if i do have a visa.

Does anybody know if i can stay for the full 6 months or must I exit the country after 90 days? Can I then go back in on the same day?