The visa-free regime has greatly simplified travel for Ukrainians, but it has limitations, and therefore some Ukrainians need to apply for a visa to travel to the EU. Depending on the purpose of the trip, there are different types of visas, each of which requires a specific set of documents. Find out more about which Ukrainians cannot enter Europe on a visa-free basis, what types of visas exist, and the list of documents required

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Ukrainians with a biometric passport can travel to the European Union without a visa. The visa-free regime allows you to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in every 180 days. These rules apply to tourist trips, visits to relatives, short-term business trips, and participation in cultural or sporting events. However, it is important to remember that the visa-free regime does not give the right to work or reside in the EU.

Visa-free travel provides convenient and fast access to European countries, but there are cases when the visa-free regime does not apply. The article below explains which Ukrainians still need a visa to the EU, as well as the nuances of applying for one.

Which Ukrainians need a visa to travel to the EU?

Ukrainians who do not have a biometric passport must obtain a Schengen visa even for short-term travel to the EU. Such a visa allows you to stay in the territory of the Schengen countries within the same 90 days for a total of 180 days.

In addition, if you plan to stay in the EU longer than the visa-free regime, or have other travel purposes (e.g., study, work, family reunion), you need to apply for a visa.

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Visas for travelling to the EU: what types are there?

The main types of visas for travelling to the European Union:

- Schengen short-term visa (type C). Allows you to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days and is suitable for tourism, visiting relatives or short-term business visits.

- National long-term visa (type D). It is required for stays of more than 90 days and is used for study, work or other long-term purposes.

- Transit visa (type A or B). Required for a short stay in a transit country while travelling to another country.

For a successful move and to avoid troubles with visa application, it is worth contacting specialists. Visit Ukraine's visa lawyers provide full support and advice to successfully resolve any nuances.

What documents are required for a visa to the EU?

To obtain a visa for travelling to Europe, you need to prepare the following documents:

- a passport valid for at least three months after the planned return with two blank pages for a visa

- a completed visa application form;

- two colour photographs that meet the requirements of the consulate;

- health insurance with coverage of at least EUR 30,000;

- financial documents, such as a bank statement, a certificate of income from the place of work or a sponsorship letter;

- proof of the purpose of the trip (invitation, hotel reservation, transport tickets, etc.).

Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required:

- for students: confirmation of enrolment in an educational institution;

- for employees: an employment contract or work permit;

- for family reunification: proof of kinship.

Just a reminder. Next year, Ukrainian refugees can count on financial support in many countries around the world, although the conditions and amounts of assistance vary significantly from country to country. Find out which countries will continue to support Ukrainians in 2025 here.

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