Ukraine has officially reopened its doors to tourists from 45 countries with the reinstatement of the e-visa program, effective February 17, 2025. This move simplifies travel arrangements for eligible citizens, allowing them to submit their visa applications online and eliminating the need for in-person consulate visits.
Among the 45 countries eligible for the e-visa application, three African nations – Seychelles, Mauritius, and South Africa – have been included on the list. This development not only signifies Ukraine’s commitment to reviving its tourism sector but also demonstrates its willingness to welcome international visitors once again.
The decision to resume the e-visa program comes at a critical time, as urgent calls for a ceasefire between the government and Russia continue. The Trump administration has announced plans for further talks with Russia to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This marks the first meeting between U.S. and Russian officials to discuss halting Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II, with discussions taking place in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
Ukraine initially launched its e-visa program in April 2018, allowing eligible travelers to apply online and bypass in-person consulate visits. Government data from 2020 revealed that Ukraine hosted over 76,000 foreign students, with nearly a quarter of them coming from Africa, particularly Nigeria, Morocco, and Egypt.
Although the e-visa service was suspended in 2022 due to the conflict with Russia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has confirmed that the e-visa system will resume for 45 eligible countries starting February 17, 2025.
For those interested in applying for a Ukraine e-visa, the process involves submitting an application online within a specific timeframe, paying a fee of $20 for a single-entry or $30 for a double-entry visa. The cost doubles if processed under an urgent procedure. The e-visa allows entry into Ukraine for up to 30 days for various purposes, including tourism, business, education, and other activities.
When applying for a Ukrainian e-visa, it is crucial to select the correct visa type that aligns with the purpose of your visit. This streamlined process aims to make travel to Ukraine more accessible and convenient for international visitors.
