Publication date: 26.07.2024
Accompaniment when crossing the border: what Ukrainians need to know
During the martial law in Ukraine, the issue of crossing the border has become especially relevant. Many citizens are faced with the need to travel outside the country for various reasons, and it is important to understand all the nuances of this process. The issue of the rules for traveling abroad for men during the war and the restrictions associated with martial law is especially acute.
Crossing the Ukrainian border: general rules
First of all, it should be noted that the procedure for crossing the border is regulated by the legislation of Ukraine and may change depending on the situation. The main rules for crossing the Ukrainian border include:
- Availability of the necessary documents
- Compliance with customs control rules
- Absence of travel restrictions
Documents for crossing the border
What is needed to cross the border first of all? Of course, these are documents. The main document for traveling abroad is a passport. However, depending on the country of destination and the purpose of the trip, additional documents may be required: a visa (if required for the country of destination), an insurance policy, confirmation of accommodation reservations, a return ticket, financial support for the trip.
For children traveling with or without parents, additional documents are required, such as a birth certificate and a notarized permission to leave from the second parent (if the child is traveling with a parent).
Border crossing rules for men
Under martial law, special rules for traveling abroad for men apply. There is a temporary restriction on the right to leave Ukraine for men from 18 to 60 years old. However, there are exceptions that allow certain categories of citizens to travel abroad:
- Parents raising children under 18 on their own
- Persons with disabilities
- Guardians of persons with disabilities
- Persons with three or more dependent children under 18 years of age
- Persons traveling for training
- Truck drivers
- Diplomats and their family members
Crossing the Polish border: features and requirements
Poland is one of the most popular countries for Ukrainians to cross the border, so it is worth considering the conditions for crossing the Polish border separately. Rules for crossing the Polish border include:
- Having a biometric passport or Schengen visa
- Proof of the purpose of the trip
- Sufficient financial resources
- Health insurance
It is important to note that the situation with crossing the Polish border may change today, so before traveling, you should check the latest information on official resources.
New rules for crossing the border with the EU
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, the rules for crossing the border with the EU may change. New rules for crossing the border with the EU may include:
- The need to present a negative COVID-19 test
- Vaccination requirement
- Filling out special forms for entry
Crossing the border by car
The rules for crossing the border by car have their own characteristics. In addition to the standard documents, drivers must have:
- Technical passport for the car
- Insurance policy “Green Card”
- Power of attorney to drive the car (if the driver is not the owner)
How to find out if you can go abroad?
For those who doubt whether it is possible to travel abroad now, there are several ways to check:
- Contact the State Border Service of Ukraine
- Check the information on the official website of the State Migration Service
- Consult a lawyer
Border escort
To facilitate the border crossing process, some people may need escort. Border escort may include:
- Assistance in preparing the necessary documents
- Consultations on border crossing rules
- Support during customs and passport control
Restrictions on travel outside Ukraine
Under martial law, restrictions on travel outside Ukraine apply. These restrictions apply primarily to men of draft age, but may also apply to other categories of citizens. It is important to understand that these restrictions have been introduced to ensure national security and defense of the country.
Temporary restrictions on the right to travel outside Ukraine apply to:
- Persons liable for military service
- Persons with outstanding obligations to the state
- Persons against whom criminal proceedings are being conducted
How to travel abroad under restrictions
For those who fall under restrictions but need to travel abroad, there are legal ways:
- Obtaining a special permit from the military registration and enlistment office
- Departure for humanitarian reasons
- Departure for family reunification
- Departure for medical treatment
Border crossing rules for Ukrainians: results and recommendations
In summary, it should be noted that the rules for crossing the border for Ukrainians can be complex and change depending on the circumstances. Here are some key recommendations:
- Always check the latest information before traveling. The rules are subject to change, so it is important to stay up to date with the latest updates.
- Carefully prepare all the necessary documents. Having a complete package of documents will significantly simplify the border crossing process.
- Consider the peculiarities of the destination country. Each country may have its own special entry requirements.
- If you fall into the category of persons with restrictions on exit, clarify the possibilities of legal exit in advance and prepare the necessary justifications.
- Consider seeking professional assistance to accompany you at the border, especially if your situation is unusual.
- Be prepared for possible queues and delays at the border, especially during periods of increased demand for exit.
- Follow all the rules and requirements of the border service. This will help to avoid misunderstandings and problems when crossing the border.
Crossing the border in the conditions of martial law and a pandemic has become a more complex process, requiring careful preparation and attention to detail. Regardless of the purpose of your trip – be it education, work, treatment or family reunification – it is important to approach the issue of traveling abroad responsibly and with a full understanding of all the rules and restrictions. Remember that the situation may change, so always refer to official sources of information and, if necessary, consult with specialists. The right approach to organizing a trip abroad will help you avoid troubles and make your trip as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. Border crossing rules for Ukrainians, particularly for men, are subject to frequent changes. Determining eligibility for travel abroad requires careful examination of current conditions and necessary documentation. While crossing the Polish border remains a common route, it's essential to check specific requirements before departure.
