New EU Entry Rules for Ukrainians Coming in 2026

Changes to Visa-Free Travel for Ukrainians to EU Countries

According to Radiotrek — Світ: Starting in late 2026, Ukrainians will face updated requirements when traveling visa-free to EU nations. Travelers will need to obtain authorization through the ETIAS system, a new pre-screening process for citizens from visa-exempt countries. The application fee is set at 20 euros (roughly 1,000 hryvnias). Each traveler must submit their own application, with payment made online via the official ETIAS website.

Once approved, the ETIAS permit will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into the Schengen Area, as well as Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus. Applications are only processed after payment, and the fee is non-refundable. If an application contains errors or is denied, travelers will need to reapply from scratch.

A New Travel Opportunity

While these changes open up new travel possibilities, they also require an extra step to secure permission. For Ukrainians, understanding these new rules is essential to avoid complications when traveling to Europe.

The introduction of ETIAS marks a significant step in tightening controls over visa-free travel to the EU, aiming to enhance security across the bloc. Author: Diana Bilous

Ukrainian travelers should take note of these new requirements to plan their trips well in advance and prevent potential delays or denials linked to the authorization process.