Money and duty free for Ukraine

Currency and Money

Currency information

Hryvnya (UAH) = 100 kopiyok (singular: kopiyka). Notes are in denominations of UAH500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of UAH1 and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 kopiyok.

Credit cards

Although still largely a cash economy, credit cards are becoming increasingly more accepted for the payment of goods and services, however, cheaper restaurants and hotels will not usually accept them. Travellers should be aware there is a high level of credit card fraud.

ATM

ATMs are increasingly common throughout Ukraine, in towns as well as cities, and are generally reliable.

Travellers cheques

Not generally advised as they can be difficult to exchange. If taken, they should be made out in US Dollars.

Banking hours

Mon-Fri 0930-1730.

Currency restrictions

The import of local currency is limited to UAH1,000. Amounts over UAH1,000 require a customs form. The export of local currency is limited to UAH85. The import of foreign currency is limited to US$10,000 and any amounts exceeding US$1,000 require a customs form. The export of foreign currency is limited to US$1,000, or US$5,000 with permission of an authorised bank.

Currency exchange

Money should only be changed at currency booths on the street or in banks. It is advisable to keep receipts showing money changed. Changing money with black-market traders is not recommended and can be dangerous. If you wish to exchange currency of 150,000 UAH or over you will need to present your passport.

Ukraine duty free

Overview

The following items may be imported into Ukraine by travellers over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
• 1L of spirits and 2L of wine and 5L of beer.
• Food products to the value of €200, weighing no more than 2kg.
• Other goods to the value of €1,000 if arriving by air or €500 if arriving by land or sea, weighing no more than 50kg.

Banned Imports

Illegal drugs and unlicensed firearms.

Banned Exports

Illegal drugs and unlicensed firearms.

You must obtain authorisation to export cultural goods.