Ukrainian authorities have confirmed that medical insurance will remain a mandatory entry requirement for all foreign nationals throughout 2026, as international arrivals continue to grow despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. The reminder comes as travelers, volunteers, and remote workers steadily return to the country’s safer regions.
Government officials state that the mandate applies to visitors from all countries, and border officers may request documentation at airports and land checkpoints. The rule, originally introduced during pandemic restrictions and later reinforced due to wartime conditions, is expected to remain in effect indefinitely.
What Travelers Must Show at the Border
According to updated travel notices, all incoming visitors must present a valid insurance policy that includes:
- Minimum coverage of €30,000
- Emergency medical care
- Hospitalization
- Ambulance and evacuation services
- Policy validity for the entire duration of stay
- Issuance by a recognized insurer
Ukrainian border guards report that non-compliant policies are often rejected, and travelers without valid documentation may face entry delays or refusal.
Platforms such as insurance ukraine and medical insurance ukraine continue to issue policies that meet these specifications and are commonly used by incoming foreign nationals.
Why Ukraine Is Maintaining the Requirement
Officials say the policy serves several purposes:
- Ensures travelers have immediate access to emergency treatment
- Reduces the risk of high medical bills for uninsured visitors
- Supports hospitals operating under wartime pressure
- Guarantees that non-residents do not burden local emergency services
Foreign nationals who arrive without coverage are required to pay full medical costs upfront—a key reason authorities emphasize pre-arrival compliance.
Required & Recommended Insurance Coverage in 2026
Mandatory
- €30,000+ coverage
- Emergency treatment
- Hospitalization
- Medical transportation
- Repatriation
- 24/7 assistance
Recommended
- Viral illness complications
- Injury and trauma coverage
- Intensive care
- English-language certificate
Visitors typically secure these plans through specialized providers offering Travel Insurance for Ukraine, which issue certificates accepted during border inspections.
Insurance Costs Remain Stable and Affordable
Despite increased travel demand, pricing for Ukraine-bound coverage remains relatively low:
- 1 week: $10–$18
- 1 month: $25–$40
- 90 days: $45–$70
- 180 days: $70–$110
Rates depend mostly on age, stay duration, and extended coverage options.
Who Must Carry Medical Insurance?
Authorities confirm the rule applies to:
- Tourists
- Digital nomads and remote workers
- NGO and volunteer personnel
- Students and interns
- Business visitors
- Media crews and journalists
- Travelers visiting family
- Transit visitors entering Ukrainian territory
Only Ukrainian citizens and legal residents are exempt.
How Border Officers Verify Documentation
Upon arrival, travelers may be asked to show:
- A digital or printed insurance certificate
- Policy dates matching their stay
- Insurer contact details
- Coverage summary
Travelers unable to provide valid documentation may be asked to purchase a new policy immediately.
Which Regions Remain Open to Visitors in 2026
Despite ongoing conflict in parts of the country, several western and central regions remain active and open to foreign visitors, including:
- Kyiv
- Lviv
- Ternopil
- Vinnytsia
- Ivano-Frankivsk
- Zakarpattia
- Khmelnytskyi
- Poltava
- Cherkasy
These areas continue to attract tourists, international workers, and humanitarian teams.
Safety Guidelines for 2026
Experts advise travelers to:
- Monitor official travel advisories
- Avoid restricted military zones
- Use air-alert applications
- Keep digital and physical copies of insurance
- Know the nearest medical facility
Common Questions Addressed by Officials
Can insurance be purchased after arrival?
Possibly, but border officials may deny entry without proof of coverage at the checkpoint.
Do children need medical insurance?
Yes—every non-resident must be covered.
Are U.S. or EU insurance policies accepted?
Only if they explicitly cover Ukraine, include €30,000 minimum coverage, and offer documentation in English.
Is war-risk coverage mandatory?
No, though extended plans may include optional provisions.
What Travelers Should Prepare Before Entering Ukraine
Authorities recommend carrying:
- Valid passport
- Proof of accommodation
- Return or onward ticket
- A compliant medical insurance policy
- Emergency contacts
- Updated safety information
With travel activity increasing, officials say the insurance requirement remains a critical safeguard for both visitors and the national healthcare system.