Ukraine customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Ukraine allows duty-free import of up to 1 litre of alcohol (spirits over 22% ABV) or 2 litres of wine/beer (under 22% ABV), 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco), and personal goods worth up to €500 (approx. USD 540) for air travellers. Cash over €10,000 (approx. USD 10,900) must be declared. These rules apply in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine/beer (under 22% ABV). Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,900
Cash and monetary instruments equivalent to €10,000 or more (approx. USD 10,900) must be declared in writing on the customs declaration form.
Goods duty-free
$540
Personal goods (excluding alcohol and tobacco) up to a total value of €500 (approx. USD 540) for air travellers are duty-free. For land/sea travellers, the limit is €200 (approx. USD 216). Goods exceeding these limits are subject to duty at 10% of the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (except with a medical prescription and permit)
  • Weapons, ammunition, explosives, and military equipment (unless licensed)
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • Obscene or pornographic materials
  • Endangered species of flora and fauna (CITES-listed) without a permit
  • Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries (unless accompanied by a veterinary certificate)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use (prescription required for controlled substances; limit to 5 packs per item)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Drones and radio equipment (require registration and permit from the Ukrainian State Service of Special Communications)
  • Cultural valuables (antiques, art) over 100 years old (require an export/import certificate)
  • Satellite phones and encryption devices (require a permit from the State Service of Special Communications)

Rules worth knowing

Temporary import of vehicles

Non-residents may bring a vehicle for up to 1 year without paying duty, but must register it with customs and provide a guarantee (cash or bond) equal to the duty. The vehicle cannot be sold or used for commercial transport.

Green and Red Corridor system

Travellers with goods within duty-free limits and no prohibited/restricted items use the 'Green Corridor' (no declaration needed). Those with goods exceeding limits, cash over €10,000, or restricted items must use the 'Red Corridor' and submit a written customs declaration.

Personal goods definition

Ukraine defines personal goods as items for personal use, not for resale. This includes clothing, electronics, and sports equipment. Multiple identical items (e.g., 5 smartphones) may be deemed commercial and subject to full duty.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, if they are for personal use and within the €500 (approx. USD 540) duty-free limit for air travellers. If the total value of all personal goods exceeds €500, duty of 10% applies on the excess. Keep receipts to prove value.
Excess cigarettes are subject to duty. You must declare them on the Red Corridor. The duty rate is approximately €30 per 1,000 cigarettes (plus VAT). You may also face confiscation if you fail to declare.
Yes, if it contains controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam). You must have a doctor's prescription and a medical certificate. For non-controlled medications, up to 5 packs per item are allowed without declaration.
Yes, for personal consumption. Meat and dairy from non-EU countries are prohibited unless accompanied by a veterinary certificate. Other food items (e.g., chocolate, coffee) are allowed as long as they are within the €500 duty-free limit.
The threshold is €10,000 or equivalent. As of 2026, this is approximately 400,000 UAH (rate fluctuates). You must declare any amount over this in any currency, including hryvnia, on the customs form.
Yes, but it is restricted. You must register the drone with the Ukrainian State Service of Special Communications and obtain a permit before travel. Failure to do so can result in confiscation and a fine.

Official source

State Customs Service of Ukraine

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with State Customs Service of Ukraine before travelling.