What can be imported and exported from Ukraine: customs rules for crossing the border
One of the key functions of the customs authorities is to control the movement of goods and personal belongings across the border. In order to avoid troubles and confiscation when crossing the border of Ukraine, it is important to be aware of and follow customs rules. Find out what you can import or export to/from Ukraine and which goods are subject to prohibitions or restrictions
Today, entering and leaving Ukraine is a common practice for many people. Crossing the border requires compliance with certain rules and restrictions that are controlled by the customs authorities.
The purpose of these rules is to ensure the security of the country and to prohibit the import or export of goods that may pose a threat to public health, the environment, or violate law and order.
Customs rules of Ukraine: what you can import
In order to avoid troubles at the border related to leaving behind purchased gifts, souvenirs and other restricted goods, it is important to carefully read the Customs Code of Ukraine and the applicable rules based on this code.
Items that can be imported into Ukraine without declaration and taxation include:
- Money
- Personal belongings and valuables
- Foodstuffs
The category of personal belongings and valuables includes:
- Items for personal use
- Souvenirs and gifts
When travelling by plane, gifts and souvenirs can be imported tax-free up to a maximum value of one thousand euros, with a maximum weight set by the air carrier.
By car or train, such goods may be imported duty-free for an amount equivalent to EUR 500 and weighing up to 50 kg.
Goods for personal use, such as cosmetics, clothing, photographic equipment, etc., are not subject to taxation.
Jewellery that shows signs of use is also exempt. Works of art and rare books with cultural or historical value must be declared and are subject to customs duties.
You can import them without paying customs duties and declaring them:
- 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars
- 2 litres of wine
- 5 litres of beer
Peculiarities of transporting funds across the border
Transporting funds across the border with Ukraine
With regard to money, you can bring into Ukraine an amount equivalent to a maximum of 10 thousand euros without a written declaration. If the amount exceeds this limit (both for import and export), it must be declared in full to the customs authority. There are a few nuances to keep in mind:
- the equivalent of EUR 10,000 is determined at the official exchange rate set by the NBU on the day of transfer;
- documents confirming cash withdrawals from personal bank accounts and a receipt of a currency exchange transaction with this cash only for the amount exceeding the equivalent of EUR 10,000 on the day of export or transfer are the basis for export or transfer;
Transporting funds across EU borders
The European Union has its own rules for transporting cash across its borders.
The obligation is deemed to be not fulfilled if:
- the information provided is incorrect;
- the information provided is incomplete;
What is prohibited to bring into Ukraine
Prohibited goods also include:
- Weapons and ammunition of all kinds
- Narcotic and psychotropic substances
- Potent poisonous, radioactive and explosive materials
- Materials that promote violence, racism and genocide
- Pornographic products
These prohibitions and restrictions exist to ensure safety, public order and the preservation of moral and cultural values.
Export from the territory of Ukraine: rules
In particular, it is important to note that in order to export goods without a written declaration, their total value must be less than EUR 10 thousand. In addition, these goods must not:
- Exceed the established norms in terms of volume
If the value of the goods exceeds EUR 10 thousand, but they are not included in the list of prohibited goods, then a written declaration must be submitted and export duty must be paid when exporting them.
Goods prohibited for export from Ukraine include:
- Weapons and ammunition of various types
- Narcotic and psychotropic substances
- Potent poisonous, radioactive and explosive materials
- Artistic, cultural and historical values
- Cancelled securities
What a foreigner should take care of when entering Ukraine
If you are interested in moving to another country, you can learn more about the entry rules, required documents and current restrictions through a special form on the Visit Ukraine portal. Select your citizenship and country of arrival to get all the information you need in two clicks.
Photo: KinoMasterDnepr/Depositphotos
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gestellte Fragen
What are the laws governing border crossings with Ukraine?
What items can be imported into Ukraine without declaration and taxation?
What is included in the category of personal belongings and valuables when crossing the border?
Are cosmetics subject to taxation when crossing the border?
How much food can be transported across the border?
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