Ukraine: International entry restrictions, domestic social-distancing mandates remain in effect as of Dec. 10 /update 15

Event

Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 10 as part of measures to control the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Foreign arrivals require proof of travel insurance that would cover the cost of COVID-19 observation and treatment. The traveler's insurance must be issued by a company in Ukraine or an international insurance company with representation or a partnership in Ukraine. Foreigners and stateless persons who permanently reside in Ukraine, refugees, and diplomats are exempt from the requirement.

In addition, officials categorize foreign countries into "green" and "red" classifications depending on disease activity in those countries. Travelers from green countries can enter Ukraine without restriction. Travelers arriving from red countries must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival or can opt to take a COVID-19 test on arrival and must self-isolate until a negative result is confirmed. Persons in possession of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours prior to arrival, as well as diplomats, representatives of foreign organizations, students, international freight truck drivers, and aircraft and vessel crew members, are exempt.

Domestically, an adaptive quarantine regime remains in effect under which all regions are classified as one of four color-coded zones - green, yellow, orange, or red - depending on the volume of COVID-19 testing, local morbidity rates, and the capacity of local hospitals. The system will remain in use until at least Dec. 31. Regional zone designations are available on the Ukrainian Government's Coronavirus Hub. As of Dec. 10, all regions are designated as either red or orange zones.

Red zones have the most stringent restrictions. Public transport has been suspended in these areas; passengers may disembark from regional buses and trains but may not board. Additionally, shopping malls, catering establishments, educational institutions, fitness centers, and sports facilities have been closed. Public gatherings are banned.

In orange zones, hotels may operate, but other forms of short-term lodging are prohibited. Entertainment venues, restaurants, fitness centers, and cultural institutions are closed. Scheduled nonemergency medical procedures have been suspended. Outdoor gatherings may not exceed 20 attendees.

Several other restrictive measures continue to apply nationwide. Persons from different households must adhere to social distancing of at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) while in public. Facemasks are mandatory in public, including on public transport, in public buildings, and in crowded indoor spaces. Public gatherings are permitted but may not exceed one person per five square meters (54 square feet) and all attendees must observe social distancing. Restaurants and cafes must enforce social distancing requirements and may not operate after 2200. Cinemas may not exceed 50-percent capacity. Most nonessential businesses have reopened, including retailers, hotels, spas, leisure facilities, and cultural venues.

Although the precise details have not yet been confirmed, authorities are reportedly planning a temporary nationwide tightening of domestic restrictions around Jan. 8-24 as a precaution against the likely increased incidence of seasonal influenza and other potential contagions. During this period, nonessential businesses, including cafes, bars, restaurants, leisure centers, and entertainment facilities will likely close, as will educational establishments. Similar measures were in effect at weekends Nov. 14-30.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.