Ukraine, often referred to as the ‘Bread Basket’ of Europe, is a captivating country offering a plethora of leisure activities for travelers holding a Ukraine tourist visa. Every year, millions of tourists from around the world, including a significant number of Indians, explore Ukraine’s natural beauty, which includes picturesque beaches and majestic mountains. This definitive guide provides essential information for Indian citizens planning to obtain a Ukraine tourist visa.

What is a Ukraine Tourist Visa? A Ukraine tourist visa, also known as a Type C visa, is essential for travelers intending to explore Ukraine for tourism and leisure activities. This visa allows visitors not only to enjoy sightseeing and other tourist attractions but also to visit friends and family members residing in the country. The visa typically has a validity of 180 days, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. It can be issued as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa. It’s important to note that possessing a tourist visa does not guarantee entry into Ukraine; the border control authorities have the discretion to deny entry based on various factors.

How to Obtain a Ukraine Tourist Visa from India? Before initiating the application process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the tourist visa type. To apply for a Ukraine tourist visa from India, follow these steps:

1. Visit VAC Website: Access the official Visa Application Centre (VAC) website and select the “tourist” visa category.

2. Complete Application Form: Fill out the Ukraine tourist visa application form accurately, ensuring that it is typed as handwritten forms are not accepted.

3. Gather Documents: Collect the necessary documents according to the provided checklist.

4. Submit Documents: Submit your completed application form and required documents to the nearest VAC branch.

5. Document Verification: The VAC will verify your application form and documents.

6. Additional Requirements: If any additional documents are required, you will be informed.

7. Payment: Pay the applicable visa fees, and the processing of your application will commence.

When completing the application form, ensure that all information provided matches the documentary proof submitted. Seek professional assistance if you encounter difficulties, as false or unverifiable information may lead to visa rejection, affecting future applications.

Eligibility Criteria: Before applying for the visa, it’s crucial to verify if you meet the eligibility criteria. Certain parameters determine your eligibility for a Ukraine tourist visa:

• Provide evidence of a confirmed visit.
• Pre-book round-trip flights.
• Travel for tourism purposes only, without seeking employment.
• Meet health requirements, which may necessitate a medical test and relevant documentary proof.
• Exhibit good character and genuine intentions for visiting Ukraine, supported by a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) if requested.
• Possess or have access to sufficient funds to cover your stay and other expenses in Ukraine, substantiated by bank statements or equivalent documents.

Ukraine Tourist Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens: The required documents may vary based on the type of visa. Common tourist visa requirements for Ukraine include:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond the travel date.
• Colored photographs complying with specific size and quality standards.
• A cover letter containing essential details.
• A travel itinerary.
• Confirmed flight tickets.
• Proof of income tax returns.
• Medical insurance.
• Travel insurance.
• Proof of accommodation, such as an invitation letter or hotel reservation.
• Proof of the purpose of the visit, such as an invitation letter or exhibition/conference pass.
• Proof of sufficient funds, demonstrated through bank statements or equivalent documents.

Ukraine Tourist Visa Fees for Indian Citizens: The cost of a Ukraine tourist visa varies depending on factors like the type of visa (single-entry or multiple-entry), purpose of the visit, service fees, and currency exchange rates at the time of application. Visa fees are paid at the time of submitting the application form and required documents. Payment can be made in cash or by debit/credit card directly at the visa application centre.

Photo Specifications: Ensure that your visa photos meet the following specifications:

• Provide two identical copies.
• Photo size: 35mm x 45mm.
• Colored photos.
• The face should cover approximately 70-80% of the frame.
• The head should be well-centered.
• Photos should not be older than 6 months.
• The background must be white or another light color.
• Maintain a neutral facial expression.
• Glasses are not permitted.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Clothing should not blend with the background.

Where to Apply: To obtain a tourist visa for Ukraine, you must apply through the relevant VAC. Ensure that you fulfill all requirements, and the submitted documents are verifiable. In complex cases, consider seeking professional consultation from visa agencies to expedite the process and minimize the risk of visa rejection.

Ukraine Tourist Visa Processing Time: The processing time for a Ukraine tourist visa typically ranges from 17 to 19 days. However, processing times may vary depending on factors such as embassy workload, staff availability, visa type (single-entry or multiple-entry), document completeness, and submission status.

After Submission: After submitting your documents:

• The VAC will verify your application form and documents before forwarding them to the embassy for processing.
• If additional documents are required, you will be informed accordingly.
• You can personally submit the documents or designate a representative.
• If a representative submits the documents, additional requirements may apply.
• You can check the status of your visa application during this period.
• If the embassy requests a personal interview, you can apply online through the Ukrainian Embassy website.

How to Check Visa Status: To check the status of your tourist visa for Ukraine, you can do so online by visiting the visa application centre’s website and entering your reference number and date of birth. Alternatively, you can inquire about your status offline by contacting the VAC using the provided contact information.

When You Have Your Visa: Once you receive your tourist visa, remember the following points:

Before You Travel:

• Note the visa’s expiry date and the number of allowed entries. Overstaying beyond this period is not permitted.
• Ensure that your travel to Ukraine falls within the visa’s validity.
• Carry copies of your passport and other travel documents while in Ukraine.
• Obtain health and travel insurance from a certified provider.

At the Border:

• Present your documents for verification to Border Control.
• Seek assistance from airport authorities if needed.
• Review your visa copy for additional guidelines and rules.

Upon Entry into Ukraine:

• Refrain from engaging in any form of employment, except for unpaid volunteer work.
• Avoid entering prohibited tourist areas.
• Ensure compliance with all visa conditions.
• Apply for a visa extension or a different visa type at least one month before your current visa’s expiry date if your plans change and require an extension.