Since the beginning of October 2020, Ukraine has allowed tourist entry into the country again. It should be noted, however, that when you return to the European Union, you may enter quarantine. In some member states, including Austria and Germany, this can be circumvented by submitting a negative PCR test, which in the Alpine republic may not be older than 72 hours and in the Federal Republic a maximum of 48 hours old.
Ukraine divides the countries of origin into two groups: People who come from countries marked in green do not have to present a negative PCR test and do not have to go into quarantine. In addition to the passport, however, an insurance policy is required that covers the costs in the Ukraine in the event of a Covid 19 disease.
Travelers who come from the “red countries” have to go into quarantine. However, this can be dealt with by submitting a negative PCR test. This must not be older than 48 hours. Alternatively, this can also be completed immediately after entry, whereby an appointment reservation is required at the airports in Kiev and Borispil. An insurance policy is also required.
Ukraine classifies countries with lower infection rates as green. Those with higher infection rates than Ukraine are classified as red. Both lists are updated every 24 hours and are available online in English. All information and entry requirements are listed at this link .
Insurance can also be purchased through Visit Ukraine . Several companies are available. The cost for a three-day stay is just over three euros. Payment is made by credit card, and the policy is automatically sent by email in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. It is strongly recommended to print it out and present it along with your passport at immigration control. If necessary, it is also advisable to bring any negative PCR test results.
For travel back to Austria, Germany, or other EU countries (please note: be sure to check the regulations of the respective member state, as these can differ significantly!), a PCR test can be performed within Ukraine. At Kyiv Airport, the cost is just over €50 (1.700 UAH). The result will be sent by email within 24 hours in English and Ukrainian. Further information about testing at Zhuliany Airport can be found at this link . The testing station is located in the arrivals area of Terminal A. Appointments can be booked by email or telephone. According to Kyiv Airport, payment is not required in advance but is made on-site by card or cash in local currency.
PCR tests are also offered at Boryspil Airport. The testing station is located in the arrivals area of Terminal D. Since it is operated by several laboratories, the airport does not provide information on costs. The results are to be sent within 24 hours in English and Ukrainian. Further information can be found at this link . Some other Ukrainian airports with international flights also have testing stations. More details can be found, for example, on the respective airport websites.
It is particularly important to know that upon re-entry into Austria, a negative PCR test, no more than 72 hours old, is required to avoid a ten-day quarantine. Alternatively, this test can be taken at your own expense within 48 hours, and a negative result will then end the quarantine.
Germany allows quarantine-free re-entry up to and including November 7, 2020 if a negative result is presented, which must not be older than 48 hours. Alternatively, the test can also be carried out on site, although this is not free everywhere. In many federal states you have to pay for this yourself. From November 8, 2020, submitting a negative PCR test will only shorten the ten-day quarantine to five days. Those who cannot show this must have themselves tested on day five of isolation at their own expense. As the new regulations have not yet been finalized, travelers to Ukraine should keep a close eye on developments.