Stricter Entry Rules Likely

In order to increase the control of the flow of foreign nationals, and especially Russian nationals, into Ukraine, the Ukrainian Government will likely start gradually implementing the following measures by January 1, 2018, among others:

• Requiring foreign nationals to register their intent to travel to Ukraine;

• Allowing entry based on biometric passports only, which would bar the entry of Russian nationals who do not have biometric passports; and

• Adding Russia and other countries to the list of countries with increased migration risk. The practical effects of this list are not yet known.

Background

The increased controls are the result of a Resolution issued by the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council.

What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals

Employers with foreign nationals, especially Russian nationals, in Ukraine, should ensure that their employees have biometric passports, if possible, and should monitor the possibility of the requirement for foreign nationals to register their intent to enter Ukraine prior to entry.

Fragomen will monitor the situation and will issue an updated alert once more details on the implementation mechanisms are available.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to emea@fragomen.com.