Ukrainians are facing changes in the conditions for visa-free entry to the countries of the European Union. Starting in 2027, Ukrainians will need to obtain a special permit through the ETIAS system and pay 7 euros to cross the border. Initially, the launch of this system was planned for 2025, but it was postponed until the end of 2026, writes IZ with reference to News live.
ETIAS will become mandatory for citizens of countries that have visa-free access to the Schengen zone, including Ukraine, the USA and the UK. The permit obtained through ETIAS allows for short-term stay in the EU, and the system will operate in test mode from 2026.
The launch of another system – the EES entry and exit registration – will begin in October 2025. The two systems will work together, although the launch of the EES has also been postponed several times.
To obtain an ETIAS, Ukrainians will have to fill out an electronic application form, provide personal data and pay a fee of 7 euros. The permit will be valid for three years or until the expiration of the passport to which it is linked. Children and people over 70 will be able to obtain a permit for free, but they will still need to fill out an application.
The ETIAS system does not guarantee automatic entry into EU countries, as the final decision will be made by the customs service of the country the traveler is crossing.
Recall that we previously wrote that since April 1, VLKs have been generating conclusions in electronic form.