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Money & duty free for Ukraine

Currency information: 

Hryvnya (UAH) = 100 kopiyok (singular: kopiyka). Notes are in denominations of UAH500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of UAH1 and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 kopiyok.

Credit cards: 

Although still largely a cash economy, credit cards are becoming increasingly more accepted for the payment of goods and services, however, cheaper restaurants and hotels will not usually accept them. Travellers should be aware there is a high level of credit card fraud.

ATM: 

ATMs are increasingly common throughout Ukraine, in towns as well as cities, and are generally reliable.

Travellers cheques: 

Not generally advised as they can be difficult to exchange. If taken, they should be made out in US Dollars.

Banking hours: 

Mon-Fri 0930-1730.

Currency restriction: 

The import of local currency is limited to UAH1,000. Amounts over UAH1,000 require a customs form. The export of local currency is limited to UAH85. The import of foreign currency is limited to US$10,000 and any amounts exceeding US$1,000 require a customs form. The export of foreign currency is limited to US$1,000, or US$5,000 with permission of an authorised bank.

Currency exchange: 

Money should only be changed at currency booths on the street or in banks. It is advisable to keep receipts showing money changed. Changing money with black-market traders is not recommended and can be dangerous.

Ukraine duty free

The following items may be imported into Ukraine without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco products.
• 1L of spirits and 2L of wine (persons over 20 years of age only).
• Goods for personal use, provided holding proof of their export, or imported under conditions of transit (toiletries and personal effects).
• Gifts up to the value of €200.

Banned imports: 

Means of transportation that are five or more years old for permanent use in Ukraine, for selling or breaking into parts; strong, poisonous, radioactive or explosive substances or other objects that can harm the population and animals or contaminate the environment; printed materials, films, negatives, photos, movies, videos, computer disks, scripts, records and other audio recordings, drawings, and other printed materials that contain propaganda of war, racism or genocide; food products without the relevant certificate; seeds and plants. Animals require veterinary certificates issued by relevant Ukrainian authorities. Contact the Embassy of Ukraine for further details.

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