Ukraine: Government extends COVID-19 quarantine regime through Aug. 31; eases restrictions effective June 17 /update 29

Ukraine eases COVID-19-related restrictions effective June 17; extends quarantine regime through Aug. 31.

Event

The government of Ukraine has issued orders extending the nation's existing COVID-19-related quarantine regime, albeit while easing restrictions nationwide. Effective June 17, authorities have downgraded the entire country from the yellow (second-lowest risk) to green (lowest risk) level on Ukraine's four-tier color-coded system for tracking disease activity. Under this system, each region is classified as being at either the green, yellow, orange, or red level, in order of increasing transmission risk as determined by the volume of COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, local morbidity rates, and the capacity of local hospitals. Jurisdictions designated as green zones are subject to no nationwide restrictions, with the exception of mandates that protective facemasks be worn in certain settings. Moreover, citizens and legal residents of Ukraine are able to enter the country without restriction from any location abroad for as long as the nationwide green level designation remains in place. The Ministry of Health in Kyiv has advised, however, that Ukraine could return to the yellow level or a higher risk tier with little-to-no notice should case numbers rise beyond certain established thresholds.

International Entry Restrictions
In order to enter Ukraine, non-resident foreign nationals must produce either a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival, or a document confirming full vaccination with a WHO-approved vaccine. Freight transporters and aircraft cabin crews are exempt from these testing requirements.

Travel remains suspended with India. All foreign travelers arriving from India or who have stayed in India for at least seven days within the last 14 days are barred from entry.

Foreign arrivals require proof of travel insurance sufficient to cover the cost of COVID-19 observation and treatment. The policy 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.

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.