Since the beginning of October 2020, Ukraine has allowed tourist entry into the country again. It should be noted, however, that when you return to the European Union, you may enter quarantine. In some member states, including Austria and Germany, this can be circumvented by submitting a negative PCR test, which in the Alpine republic may not be older than 72 hours and in the Federal Republic a maximum of 48 hours old.

Ukraine divides the countries of origin into two groups: People who come from countries marked in green do not have to present a negative PCR test and do not have to go into quarantine. In addition to the passport, however, an insurance policy is required that covers the costs in the Ukraine in the event of a Covid 19 disease.

Travelers who come from the “red countries” have to go into quarantine. However, this can be dealt with by submitting a negative PCR test. This must not be older than 48 hours. Alternatively, this can also be completed immediately after entry, whereby an appointment reservation is required at the airports in Kiev and Borispil. An insurance policy is also required.

Ukraine gives those countries that have lower infection rates a green rating. Those in which there are more infections than in Ukraine are classified in red. The two lists are updated every 24 hours and are available online in English. Under this link all information and requirements for entry are listed. 

The insurance policy can also be over VisitUkraine can be acquired. The selection consists of different companies. The costs for a three-day stay are just over three euros. Payment is made by credit card, the policy is automatically sent by email in English, Russian and Ukrainian. It is strongly recommended to have this printed out with you and to present it together with your passport at the immigration control. If necessary: ​​It is advisable to also take any negative PCR results with you.

For the return journey to Austria, Germany or other EU countries (Attention: It is essential to observe the regulations of the respective member state, because these differ enormously in some cases!) A PCR test can be carried out in the Ukraine. At Kiev Airport, the cost of this is just over 50 euros (1.700 UAH). The result will be emailed to you in English and Ukrainian within 24 hours. Under this link you can find more information about the tests at Schuljany Airport. The test station is located in the arrival area of ​​Terminal A. Appointments can be reserved by email and telephone. According to Kiev Airport, payment is not made in advance, but only on site with a card or cash in local currency.

PCR tests are also offered at Borispil Airport. The station is located in the arrival area of ​​Terminal D. Since it is operated by different laboratories, the airport does not provide any information on the costs. In any case, the result should be sent in English and Ukrainian within 24 hours. More information under this link. Some of the other Ukrainian airports that have international air traffic also have test stations. Further details can be found on the respective airport website, for example.

Particularly important to know: When re-entering Austria, it is necessary to present a negative PCR test, which must not be older than 72 hours, in order to avoid a ten-day quarantine. Alternatively, this can be done at your own expense within 48 hours and a negative result then ends the quarantine.

Germany allows quarantine-free re-entry up to and including November 7, 2020 if a negative result is presented, which must not be older than 48 hours. Alternatively, the test can also be carried out on site, although this is not free everywhere. In many federal states you have to pay for this yourself. From November 8, 2020, submitting a negative PCR test will only shorten the ten-day quarantine to five days. Those who cannot show this must have themselves tested on day five of isolation at their own expense. As the new regulations have not yet been finalized, travelers to Ukraine should keep a close eye on developments.