How to Get to Ukraine Through Moldova: Transit, Visas, and Border Crossing Rules (Comprehensive Version)

The route through Moldova remains a viable option for traveling to Ukraine, especially given the ongoing restrictions on direct air travel. This article provides comprehensive information on how to get to Ukraine through Moldova, covering border crossing rules, visa requirements, available transportation options, legal aspects, safety considerations, and other essential details.

Visa Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown

• For Citizens of the Republic of Moldova: A visa-free regime exists between Moldova and Ukraine based on bilateral agreements. Moldovan citizens can stay in Ukraine for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, visiting relatives, medical treatment, business (excluding employment), etc. For longer stays (work, studies), a long-stay visa (type “D”) is required from the Embassy or Consulate of Ukraine in Moldova.
• For Citizens of EU Member States, EEA countries, Switzerland, the USA, Canada, Japan, and Other Countries with Visa-Free Access to Ukraine: Citizens of these countries can also enter Ukraine without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is crucial to have a biometric passport (if applicable) and supporting documents justifying the purpose of the trip (e.g., invitation, hotel reservation, return ticket, medical insurance).
• For Citizens of Countries Requiring a Visa for Ukraine: Citizens of countries without a visa waiver agreement with Ukraine must obtain a visa from a Ukrainian consulate or embassy before traveling. The list of countries whose citizens require a visa can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (https://mfa.gov.ua/).
• Transit Visa Through Moldova: This aspect frequently causes confusion.
  • For Citizens of Countries with Visa-Free Access to Ukraine: Generally, a transit visa through Moldova is not required if you are traveling to Ukraine and have a valid travel document (e.g., bus or train ticket) and the purpose of transit is clear (e.g., direct road transit, without other activities in Moldova). It’s important that your stay in Moldova is limited to transit (usually no more than 24-72 hours, depending on the situation and the border crossing point).
  • For Citizens of Countries Requiring a Visa for Ukraine: In most cases, if you need a visa to enter Ukraine, you will also need a transit visa to transit through Moldova. Exceptions may exist if you hold a valid Schengen visa, a residence permit in an EU member state, or another type of visa that allows entry into Moldova. It is crucial to verify this information with the Moldovan embassy or consulate well in advance, as rules can change. Countries whose citizens often require a transit visa in Moldova include, for example, some countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) that do not have bilateral agreements with Moldova.

Ways to Get to Ukraine Through Moldova: Practical Considerations

• By Car:
  • Vehicle Documents: In addition to personal documents (valid passport, medical insurance), you must have an international driving permit (or a national driving license if it's mutually recognized), vehicle registration documents, and valid "Green Card" car insurance covering both countries (Moldova and Ukraine). Verify that the insurance covers risks specific to the current situation.
  • Road Conditions: Road conditions in Moldova and Ukrainian border regions can vary significantly. It is recommended to study the route in advance using updated navigation apps and factor in potential delays due to road conditions or additional checks.
  • Border Crossing Times: During peak periods (holidays, weekends, periods of increased migration), queues can form at border crossing points. It’s advisable to monitor the situation online through dedicated apps or the official websites of the Border Police of both countries and choose less congested crossing points if feasible.
• By Bus:
  • International Bus Carriers: Numerous international and local bus companies operate regular routes between Moldova and Ukraine. Choosing reputable and authorized carriers and booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
  • Travel Time: Travel time by bus can vary significantly depending on distance, traffic, and border crossing times. Be prepared for potential delays.
• By Train:
  • Train Connections: Direct train connections between Moldova and Ukraine might be limited or temporarily suspended. Check updated information on the websites of railway companies (CFR Călători for Moldova and Ukrzaliznytsia for Ukraine) or at train station ticket offices.
• By Air:
  • Connecting Flights: Given the current situation, direct flights between Moldova and Ukraine are rare or non-existent. Consider flight options with layovers in other countries, usually EU member states (e.g., Poland, Romania, Austria). This option might be more costly and time-consuming but sometimes faster than ground transportation.

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Border Crossing Procedures: Legal Aspects and Recommendations

• Grounds for Refusal of Entry: Border authorities in both countries have the right to refuse entry if:
  • You lack the necessary and valid documents (passport, visa, insurance, supporting documents for the purpose of travel).
  • There are suspicions of document forgery.
  • Entry bans exist in the respective country.
  • Reasons of national security or public order apply.
  • You cannot justify the purpose and conditions of your stay.
• Rights and Obligations: It is crucial to know your rights and obligations when crossing the border, both under Moldovan and Ukrainian law. In case of a refusal of entry, you have the right to a written explanation and the possibility to appeal the decision. You also have the right to contact your country’s embassy or consulate.
• Customs Regulations: Customs regulations of both countries regarding the import and export of goods, currency, and prohibited items must be observed. Declare valuable items and large sums of money to avoid potential issues.
• Medical Insurance: Holding medical insurance is mandatory for entering Ukraine. It is strongly recommended to obtain insurance that also covers risks associated with the armed conflict, as well as any unforeseen medical expenses.

Safety: Key Recommendations

• Information on the Situation in Ukraine: Before traveling, it is absolutely necessary to gather information from official and updated sources about the current situation in Ukraine, including information about martial law, travel restrictions, and other limitations. Updated information can be found on the official websites of the Ukrainian authorities, as well as on the Visit Ukraine website (https://visitukraine.today/ru). Pay particular attention to the areas you will be traveling to and strictly observe the instructions of local authorities.
• Compliance with Security Measures: Certain security measures related to the state of war are in place in Ukraine. You must comply with these measures and follow the recommendations of local authorities, including observing curfews, checkpoints, and warnings about potential dangers.
• Emergency Communication: Ensure you have an emergency communication plan, including phone numbers for your country's embassy or consulate in Ukraine and Moldova, as well as local emergency numbers (police – 112 in both countries, ambulance – 103 in Ukraine and 112 in Moldova, fire department – 101 in Ukraine and 112 in Moldova). Save these numbers in your phone and, if possible, print them on a piece of paper.
• Useful Apps: Download useful travel apps, such as offline map applications (e.g., Maps.me, Google Maps with offline downloaded maps), translation apps, and secure communication apps.
• Information on Shelters: In Ukraine, especially in areas close to the conflict, familiarize yourself with the location of air raid shelters and emergency procedures in case of an alarm.
• Avoid Conflict Zones: It is crucial to avoid areas affected by the armed conflict and strictly follow the recommendations of local authorities regarding safe zones.
• Be Aware of Suspicious Objects: In public spaces, be attentive to suspicious objects and do not touch them. If you notice a suspicious object, immediately notify the authorities.

Documents: Comprehensive List (May Vary Depending on Situation and Citizenship)

• Valid Travel Document (Passport): The passport must be valid for at least 3-6 months after the estimated date of departure from Ukraine. Some sources even recommend 6 months of validity after the date of entry to avoid any ambiguity. Carefully check for blank pages for visa application (if applicable) and the overall condition of the document (that it is not damaged, torn, or with missing pages).
• Visa (if required): Carefully check the visa requirements according to your citizenship on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (https://mfa.gov.ua/). Even if you benefit from a visa-free regime, ensure you meet all entry conditions (purpose of travel, supporting documents, financial resources).

• Medical Insurance: This is a mandatory requirement for entering Ukraine and is highly recommended even if not strictly enforced for transit through Moldova. It’s not just a formality; it's crucial for your safety and well-being. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
  • Coverage: Your insurance policy should ideally cover:
    • Emergency medical care and hospitalization due to illness or injury.
    • COVID-19 related expenses, including testing, treatment, and isolation if required.
    • Medical evacuation and repatriation in case of serious illness or injury.
    • War-related risks: This is a crucial aspect given the ongoing conflict. Standard travel insurance policies often exclude war-related risks. You need a specialized policy that explicitly covers injuries or medical issues arising from hostilities. Several providers offer such coverage specifically for travel to Ukraine. Visit Ukraine (visitukraine.today) is a resource that offers such insurance.
  • Validity: The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Ukraine.
  • Provider: Choose a reputable insurance provider with international coverage and a good track record of handling claims.
  • Policy Details: Carefully review the terms and conditions of your policy, paying attention to:
    • The insured sum (the maximum amount the insurer will pay for covered expenses).
    • Exclusions (situations or conditions not covered by the policy).
    • Claim procedures (how to file a claim in case of a medical emergency).
    • Contact information for emergency assistance.
  • Proof of Insurance: You must carry a physical or digital copy of your insurance policy with you.

Contact Details of Emergency Services and Embassies/Consulates:

It is essential to have these contacts readily available:

• Emergency Numbers in Ukraine: 101 (Fire Department), 102 (Police), 103 (Ambulance), 112 (Single Emergency Number).
• Emergency Numbers in Moldova: 112 (Single Emergency Number for all services).
• Embassy/Consulate of your country in Ukraine and Moldova: Find the contact details of your country's diplomatic representation online and save them in your phone and on a piece of paper.

Additional Recommendations in the Current Context:

• Check the Status of Border Crossing Points: The situation at border crossing points can change rapidly. Check updated information on the official websites of border authorities in both countries before departing.
• Be Prepared for Additional Checks: You may be subject to additional checks at the border, including document verification, baggage checks, and interviews with border officers.
• Strictly Comply with the Legislation of Both Countries: Familiarize yourself with the customs legislation and border crossing regulations of Moldova and Ukraine to avoid any issues.
• Consider Alternative Routes: Depending on the situation, alternative routes through other countries might be available. Research these options as a backup plan.

Additional Legal Aspects:

• Refusal of Entry into Ukraine: Ukrainian legislation stipulates the reasons for which a person may be refused entry. It is essential to be aware of these reasons to avoid unpleasant situations.
• Legal Assistance: In case of an unjustified refusal of entry or other legal problems, you have the right to legal assistance.

Additional Information for Specific Categories of Travelers:

• Traveling with Children: In addition to the documents mentioned above, written consent from both parents (or the legal guardian) is required for a minor to travel abroad, unless they are traveling with both parents.
• Traveling with Pets: Consult the specific regulations regarding traveling with pets on the websites of the veterinary authorities in Moldova and Ukraine. This will typically involve a pet passport, a valid veterinary health certificate, and proof of vaccinations.
• Traveling for Humanitarian/Volunteer Purposes: Coordinate your actions with accredited humanitarian organizations and comply with their established procedures. It's crucial to have proper documentation confirming your affiliation with the organization and the purpose of your trip.

Traveling to Ukraine through Moldova requires careful planning and thorough preparation, especially in the current context. It is crucial to check updated information from official sources before departure and be prepared for potential delays or changes.

If you have any further questions or encounter a specific situation requiring an individualized approach, we recommend contacting our migration law consultants. We can provide you with personalized advice and assistance to successfully navigate border crossing and visa procedures.