When traveling abroad by car, many drivers face the situation when their Green Card has expired. Find out more about what to do in this case and why a Green Card policy is mandatory for traveling abroad by car

Take out a Green Card policy for traveling abroad by car

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A Green Card is an international insurance document that confirms the existence of compulsory third-party liability insurance for drivers using a vehicle abroad. It is valid in the countries participating in the Green card system.

However, no one is safe from cases when the policy expires right at the moment of staying in another country. We will tell you how to renew your Green Card for safe travel if you are already abroad and where to buy a policy when preparing for a trip.

Why is it mandatory to purchase a Green Card?

Green card is an international insurance policy that is required in European countries. It is analogous to a compulsory CTP policy in Ukraine, but it is valid in all European countries that are members of the international automobile insurance system.

In the event of an accident abroad, the Green Card covers damages caused to third parties, but not to the culprit of the accident. In other words, the insured event covers losses to the injured party.

In 2025, a Green Card is a prerequisite for crossing the border by car from Ukraine to the countries that are members of the system. This is enshrined in Article 16 of the Law “On Insurance”, which stipulates that the owner of a vehicle leaving Ukraine is obliged to conclude an international civil liability insurance contract and obtain a Green Card insurance certificate.

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Can I buy a Green Card at the border?

Buying a Green Card at the border is no longer possible, as the policy becomes valid only the day after it is issued, so you will not be able to use it immediately.

Although there are agents of insurance companies at border crossing points who offer to issue a policy on the spot, there is a risk of getting invalid insurance or a fake. Such a policy will not be included in the official database, which can cause problems abroad.

We recommend you apply for a Green Card online to avoid unnecessary costs and risks.

Penalties for an expired or missing Green Card

Drivers without a Green Card abroad can face serious consequences. The fine varies by country and starts at 1000 euros. In Poland, for example, it is 5000 zlotys (about 1200 euros), in Slovakia, up to 300 euros, and in Hungary, from 260 to 520 euros.

However, fines are only part of the problem. In some countries, deportation, a ban on re-entry, or even confiscation of the car is possible. If an accident occurs without insurance, the culprit bears all the costs of car repairs and treatment of the victims, which can cost tens of thousands of euros.

You can find out more about the amount of fines for not having a Green Card in different European countries here.

Can I use the electronic Green Card policy?

In September 2022, an electronic Green Card policy was introduced in Ukraine, which allows car owners to take out insurance online without visiting an insurance company office. This document has the same legal force as a paper document and becomes effective immediately after issuance.

However, in some European countries, paper copies were still required to cross the border in 2024. Starting in 2025, all countries participating in the Green Card system are expected to fully switch to electronic policies. The settlement of insurance claims will remain unchanged, and the transition to digital format will continue during the first months of 2025 as part of the global digitalization strategy.

What is the validity period of insurance policies?

Starting from January 1, 2025, when planning a trip abroad, drivers must take out an international liability insurance contract in advance. According to the new requirements, the contract will become effective from 00:00 hours of the next day after the data is entered into the Unified Centralized Database. This means that it will no longer be possible to conclude an agreement with an effective date of the day of execution.

If the data on the insurance contract is not in the database, the Green Card certificate will be invalidated and the vehicle will be considered uninsured. In this case, the driver will not be able to cross the border. Previously, it was possible to issue a certificate immediately before the trip, but this practice will be discontinued in 2025.

The initiative is aimed at combating fraud and forgery of insurance certificates. Checking the validity of the insurance contract will become more convenient - it will be enough to present an electronic document, and the competent authorities will check its information in the database.

How much does a Green Card policy cost in 2025?

Starting in 2025, Ukrainian insurance companies will have the right to set their tariffs for Green Card policies. This became possible thanks to the law on compulsory civil liability insurance for vehicle owners, adopted on June 17, 2024.

Previously, policy prices were regulated centrally, but now each company will form the price based on its own risk assessment and market situation. This approach helps to create competition among insurers, which will allow car owners to choose the most favorable insurance conditions according to their needs and budget.

How to apply for a Green Card quickly and conveniently?

Applying for a Green Card online is the most convenient way to get insurance without any hassle. You do not need to spend time visiting insurance offices or waiting in lines. The electronic Green Card is fully legitimate and has the same legal force as the paper version.

Although the online document is sufficient, we recommend printing it out, as some countries may require a physical copy of the policy.

By choosing to apply through the trusted Visit Ukraine service, you will be able to get a Green Card quickly and reliably. The process takes only a few minutes, and the price is affordable for everyone.

The Green Card from Visit Ukraine is your reliable protection on the roads of Europe. Fast processing, affordable prices and complete peace of mind while traveling. Apply for a Green Card and enjoy a safe trip abroad!

We remind you! The Green Card is a mandatory insurance document for owners of trailers and semi-trailers who plan to travel abroad. Read more about the terms and conditions of the Green Card for trailers and semi-trailers and how much the policy costs.

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Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

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