New EU Entry Requirement for Ukrainians: ETIAS Approval Needed From Late 2026

What changes for visa-free travel to the EU

According to Radiotrek — Світ: In late 2026, the rules for visa-free travel from Ukraine to European Union countries will become stricter. Besides holding a valid passport for international travel, every traveler will need an ETIAS authorization. The application fee is set at 20 euros, which is roughly 1,000 hryvnias. Each person must file their own separate request and pay the fee online before the application can be processed. The new system is part of the EU's broader effort to carry out advance security checks on travelers who currently do not need a visa.

Once approved, an ETIAS permit remains valid for up to three years or until the passport it is linked to expires, whichever comes first. During that period, travelers may enter ETIAS-participating countries multiple times. The fee is non-refundable: it must be paid before the application is reviewed, and if the form contains an error or the request is rejected, a new application with a new payment will be required.

Why this matters

Some sources have cited a 7-euro fee, but the official cost is 20 euros, so Ukrainians should prepare for the actual amount. The introduction of ETIAS means extra time and expense when arranging trips, which could be a hurdle for some travelers. To avoid last-minute problems, Ukrainian citizens should learn about the new requirements well in advance and factor them into their travel planning.