Insurance for volunteers in Ukraine

There are currently more than 10,000 volunteers in Ukraine who regularly face various risks caused primarily by the war. Find out how to take out health insurance to ensure confidence in your volunteer work and how to protect yourself during such activities

War risk insurance is a guarantee of your protected stay on the territory of Ukraine

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According to the State Tax Service, as of the end of November 2024, 10,454 volunteers were officially registered in Ukraine. This number includes only Ukrainian citizens, not including representatives of other countries.

In the face of unprecedented challenges faced by Ukraine, it is volunteers who help the military, evacuate civilians, and deliver humanitarian aid, risking their own health and lives. At this time, the issue of insurance for them becomes particularly acute and relevant. In this article, we will look at the key aspects of volunteer insurance, available protection programmes and understand why taking out a policy is not just a formality, but an urgent need for everyone who has dedicated themselves to a volunteer mission.

What are the risks of volunteering in Ukraine?

Volunteering in Ukraine, especially in times of war, carries significant risks, including physical injuries and wounds from shelling or mines, accidents during transport or working with equipment, the risk of infectious diseases due to difficult conditions, and physical exhaustion from intensive work. The psychological consequences are also serious, as volunteers can experience psychological trauma, emotional burnout, constant anxiety and fear. There are also social and legal risks, such as the possibility of becoming a victim of fraud, lack of legal protection, personal pressure and exhaustion of their own resources. In addition, volunteers may face information security risks and problems related to logistics and coordination of assistance. Being aware of these various risks is an important step in ensuring that volunteers are safe and supported.

Are these risks covered by regular health insurance?

A regular health insurance policy helps to pay for treatment if a person becomes ill or has an accident. A special policy that covers war risks does the same, but also adds payments if something happens because of the war: for example, during hostilities, because of the consequences of the war that are not direct battles (such as explosions of leftover ammunition), or because of terrorist attacks. In other words, it is an extended protection for those who find themselves in high-risk areas.

Health insurance with military coverage: how does it work?

Insurance policies with war risk coverage appeared on the market in 2023 in response to public demand. The policy covers the following risks:

1. Diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19, including the cost of compulsory observation. Currently, there are no restrictions on coronavirus infection in Ukraine, but in case of illness, the insured person will be able to receive diagnosis, treatment and other necessary medical services in the areas covered by the policy.

2. Outpatient treatment (visit to a doctor, consultation, examination, etc.), medicines (prescribed by a doctor) and hospitalisation (stay in an intensive care unit, intensive care unit, purchase of medicines, etc.)

3. Emergency dental care. In particular, in case of acute toothache that requires emergency dental care for medical reasons (assistance is provided within the established limits).

4. Medical evacuation (if necessary)

5. Repatriation of the insured person (or his/her body in case of death) from the place of stay to the place of his/her permanent residence.

6. Accidents, injuries and deaths that may occur as a result of active or passive war risks or terrorist acts.

Advantages of taking out a health insurance policy covering war risks on the Visit Ukraine portal

1. Speed and convenience - the price is calculated instantly, and you can apply in a few clicks.

2. Optimal price and convenient payment methods.

3. Security - you can immediately receive the policy by e-mail.

4. Ability to choose the best coverage for your needs and budget

5. Support - the service works around the clock.

6. Flexible policy terms - from a few days to one year

How do I apply for health insurance for a volunteer through Visit Ukraine?

To apply for an insurance policy covering military risks on the Visit Ukraine portal, you only need your international passport. To purchase insurance, you need to follow these steps:

1. Prepare your passport;

2. Choose an insurance package (that meets your needs).

3. Choose the term of insurance

4. Enter your date of birth.

5. Fill in the form with the data about the insured person (full name, e-mail, contact phone number, passport details, citizenship and place of residence).

6. Sign the insurance contract (you will need to enter a special code that will be sent to the specified e-mail).

7. Pay for the insurance policy.

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Safety tips for volunteers in Ukraine

1. Always work in a team: Try to never work alone, especially in potentially dangerous areas. Teamwork increases mutual support and the ability to respond quickly in case of danger.

2. Complete the necessary safety training: Before volunteering, make sure you have received training in mine safety, first aid, emergency procedures and other important safety aspects.

3. Have a clear plan of action and itinerary: Before each trip or mission, carefully plan your route, discuss possible risks and develop a plan of action in case of danger. Communicate your route and expected return time to the coordinators.

4. Wear personal protective equipment: Depending on the type of volunteer activity, wear the necessary personal protective equipment such as body armour, hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, etc. Make sure they are in good condition and used correctly.

5. Maintain constant communication: Have a charged mobile phone and other means of communication (walkie-talkies, satellite phone, if necessary). Regularly inform the coordinators of your condition and whereabouts.

6. Be cautious and observant: Constantly assess your surroundings for suspicious objects, sounds or activity. Avoid unknown or dangerous areas. Trust your intuition.

7. Carry the necessary documents and a first aid kit: Always have your identification and volunteer status with you. Also, have a first aid kit stocked and know how to use it.

8. Follow the rules of behaviour in the conflict zone: If you are working in an area close to hostilities, strictly follow the established rules of conduct, do not approach military objectives, and do not take photos or videos without permission.

9. Remember about psychological safety: Volunteering can be emotionally draining. Take care of your psychological health, seek support from colleagues, psychologists or coordinators if necessary.

10. Trust your team and coordinators: Listen to the instructions of the coordinators, discuss any concerns with the team and report any potential threats. Mutual trust and co-operation is the key to safety.

Insurance coverage is your guarantee of financial security in volunteering

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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