Kara Sears
Ukraine has been under martial law since 24 February 2022, when President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the start of martial law in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This has been extended multiple times since then, with the latest extension announced in April 2024. Under martial law, Ukraine has imposed a number of restrictions and prohibitions, including a curfew, restrictions on the right of men liable for military service to leave the country, and a ban on elections. These restrictions have impacted both Ukrainian citizens and foreign visitors, with reports of dual U.S.-Ukrainian citizens encountering difficulties when trying to enter or exit the country. So, can you fly to Ukraine when martial law is declared? The answer is yes, but with extreme caution and only for essential purposes. Visitors are advised to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and alerts, as the security situation can change rapidly.
Can I fly to Ukraine when martial law is declared?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can martial law be declared in Ukraine? | Yes, it can be declared in the event of armed aggression or threat of attack, threat to Ukraine's state independence or territorial integrity. |
| Who can declare martial law? | The Ukrainian President with the approval of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian legislature). |
| What does martial law in Ukraine entail? | A number of restrictions and prohibitions for Ukrainian citizens and foreign visitors, including a curfew, restrictions on the right of men liable for military service to leave the country, a ban on elections, etc. |
| What are the restrictions on travel during martial law in Ukraine? | Men aged 18-60 with Ukrainian citizenship are subject to exit restrictions and may be mobilized. Foreigners and stateless persons who are not allowed to enter Ukraine must return to their home country or the state that issued their passport document. |
| What other restrictions are in place during martial law? | Restrictions on the freedom of movement, stricter ID checks, inspection of belongings, vehicles, luggage, cargo, and residential and business premises, control of communication means, etc. |
| Are there any travel advisories for Ukraine during martial law? | Yes, the U.S. and other governments have issued advisories recommending reconsidering travel to certain regions of Ukraine due to security concerns, missile and drone attacks, and martial law restrictions. |
| Can I purchase travel tickets to Ukraine during martial law? | Yes, you can purchase tickets for buses, trains, and flights to Ukraine from Europe. However, closed airspace may restrict travel options. |
| What else should I consider when planning to travel to Ukraine during martial law? | Ensure you have appropriate insurance coverage, draft a will, and be prepared to depart immediately as the security situation can change quickly. |
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What You'll Learn
Restrictions on entry for foreigners
Ukraine has been under martial law since 24 February 2022, in response to the Russian invasion. This law imposes a number of restrictions and prohibitions on Ukrainian citizens and foreign visitors.
During the period of martial law, foreign nationals with a residence permit in Ukraine may import a car with foreign license plates for their own use after a written declaration and payment of customs duties. Foreigners and stateless persons who are not allowed to enter Ukraine and are attempting to enter at a checkpoint across the state border will not be permitted to cross and must return to the state from which they came or to the state that issued their passport document. If immediate return is not possible, they must stay at the checkpoint until their return.
There are certain entry restrictions on foreign visitors interested in visiting Ukraine. Citizens of most countries need to have a visa before entering the country, and citizens of some countries can apply for a Ukraine electronic visa. However, citizens of certain countries will not be allowed to enter without a Ukrainian visa. Ukraine has also tightened entry restrictions due to COVID-19, with non-exempt foreigners needing to present health insurance proof that they can be treated for COVID-19 during their stay. Visitors need to purchase insurance from a company with representation in the country or a Ukrainian company, and present a negative PCR or antigen test taken at least 72 hours before arrival, as well as proof of vaccination with WHO-approved vaccines.
In addition, foreigners and stateless persons with permanent residency permits on Ukrainian territory, persons recognized as refugees or those in need of subsidiary protection, staff members of diplomatic missions and consular posts of foreign states, missions of international organizations accredited in Ukraine, as well as their family members, and military personnel of NATO and "Partnership for Peace" program member states who take part in training for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, are exempt from entry restrictions.
First-degree relatives of Ukrainian citizens should have marriage or birth certificates or other documents confirming family ties. Those arriving in Ukraine to study should have an invitation from the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, or a certificate of temporary residence in Ukraine or a visa type "D". Those serving in the Armed Forces should have documents confirming their military service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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Limitations on the movement of Ukrainian men
On 24 February 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the start of martial law in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This declaration came into effect with the approval of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian legislature).
Under martial law, Ukrainian men between the ages of 18 and 60 are prohibited from leaving the country. This restriction aims to facilitate the general mobilization of all reserve forces. To leave their place of permanent residency, men within this age bracket must obtain approval from the local military administration.
The martial law imposed on Ukraine entails a range of restrictions and prohibitions for both Ukrainian citizens and foreign visitors. These limitations are outlined in the Constitution of Ukraine and the Law of Ukraine "On the Legal Status of Martial Law." The Constitution explicitly allows for certain restrictions on rights and freedoms during a state of martial law.
During this period, Ukrainian men who are liable for military service are subject to conscription and can be mobilized to fight on the front line by the government. This measure ensures that Ukraine can bolster its forces, particularly in areas where Russia has made significant advancements.
Additionally, martial law grants the government the authority to control the media, ban the sale of weapons and alcoholic beverages, regulate medicine production, and seize radioactive materials. It also enables stricter ID checks, inspections of belongings and vehicles, and control over communication means. These provisions are in accordance with the relevant articles of the Law on the Legal Regime of Martial Law.
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Ban on holding elections
Ukraine has been under martial law since 24 February 2022, when President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced its imposition in response to the Russian invasion. This law has been extended multiple times, with the most recent extension being from 9 November 2024 to 7 February 2025.
The imposition of martial law in Ukraine has had a significant impact on the country's political landscape, including the postponement of elections. The Ukrainian Constitution and legislation explicitly prohibit holding national elections during martial law. This restriction is supported by Article 8 of the Law on the Legal Regime of Martial Law, which allows for the temporary restriction of constitutional rights and freedoms, including the right to participate in the management of public affairs through elections, referendums, etc.
The 2023 Ukrainian parliamentary elections and the 2024 Ukrainian presidential elections were not held due to the ongoing martial law. The Ukrainian government has defended the cancellation of elections by citing logistical challenges, as many citizens have fled the country, and active-duty soldiers would face difficulties in participating. Additionally, security concerns and the impact of Russia's full-scale invasion have made it practically impossible to ensure a fair electoral process.
While Ukraine is legally obligated to uphold democratic values and hold regular elections under international law, Article 15 of the European Convention on Human Rights permits states to derogate from these obligations in "exceptional circumstances." The ongoing war and martial law in Ukraine constitute such circumstances, allowing for a temporary deviation from holding elections.
Despite the legal and practical challenges, Ukraine remains committed to upholding democratic norms. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has acknowledged the need to present democratic alternatives to the Ukrainian citizens, and most Ukrainians support postponing the elections until after the war.
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Increased security inspections
In the context of Ukraine, martial law has been imposed twice: in 2018 for 30 days and since February 24, 2022, in response to the Russian invasion. During these periods, security inspections have likely been heightened, particularly at border crossings and transportation hubs. The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine plays a crucial role in enforcing these security measures.
The legal basis for martial law in Ukraine is derived from its Constitution, the Law of Ukraine "On the Legal Regime of Martial Law," and presidential decrees. These laws grant the relevant authorities the power to impose restrictions and take necessary actions to protect the country's defense, public safety, and state interests.
As per the Law on the Legal Regime of Martial Law, the government has the authority to control the media, prohibit the sale of weapons and alcoholic beverages, regulate medicine production, and seize radioactive materials. These provisions give law enforcement agencies extensive powers to conduct security inspections and enforce compliance with the imposed restrictions.
While the specific procedures for security inspections may vary based on the location and circumstances, individuals travelling to or within Ukraine during martial law should expect heightened scrutiny and potential delays due to these increased security measures. It is advisable to carry necessary documentation, comply with instructions from authorities, and stay informed about the latest restrictions and requirements.
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Media control and censorship
Ukraine has been under martial law since 24 February 2022, when President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the start of martial law in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This law gives the government the right to control the media.
Media censorship and control during martial law can take various forms, and it is essential to recognize the tactics employed to restrict the freedom of the press and disseminate controlled information. During the imposition of martial law in the Philippines under Ferdinand Marcos, the first casualty was the country's free press and mass media. Marcos understood the crucial role of the media and worked to eliminate its powers and privileges as soon as he established martial law.
Marcos employed various methods to control the media and the information that reached the public. He shut down leading mass-circulation dailies, weekly magazines, and journals, radio and television stations, arresting thousands of journalists, editors, and media personnel without due process. By controlling the media outlets, Marcos was able to stifle public criticism and opposition, ensuring that he had the final say on what was presented as truth. He also set up print and broadcast outlets controlled by his associates, turning mass media into a propaganda tool.
Marcos's administration issued Letter of Instruction No. 1, authorizing the military to seize control of privately-owned media companies to prevent their use against the government. This resulted in the takeover of prominent broadcasting companies and the closure of church-operated publications and radio stations. Marcos also expelled foreign journalists, accusing them of false reporting.
Propaganda and media control were institutionalized through government agencies like the Department of Public Information and the National Media Production Center (NMPC). The Department of Public Information's first order restricted news media to reporting only "positive national value" stories about the administration.
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Frequently asked questions
Martial law in Ukraine was declared on 24 February 2022, and it is still in effect as of 2025. Foreign nationals can fly to Ukraine, but they must have a valid insurance policy, which must be presented at border control.
The insurance policy guarantees monetary compensation in the event of an accident as a result of military operations, passive military risks, and terrorist acts. It also covers emergency care, outpatient treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation of the insured person or their body in the case of death.
There is a special regime of entry and exit from the country, and freedom of movement is restricted. There is also a curfew in place, and public holidays become working days.
Ukraine is currently subject to regular rocket attacks, and there are no cities that are completely safe. It is recommended that you make electronic copies of all your important documents and save them on an electronic device so that you can always access them.
