Is Car Insurance Required in Ukraine?

 When planning a trip across Ukraine in your own car or a rented vehicle, foreign drivers often ask the same question: do I need to buy insurance if my stay is short?

And is temporary car insurance purchased abroad enough? The answer is clear: yes, car insurance is mandatory in Ukraine. However, it’s important to understand which type of policy is considered valid, how to obtain it, and what risks a driver faces when traveling without insurance. This article explains what types of car insurance exist in Ukraine, when you can purchase a short-term policy, and how to ensure a safe trip across the country.

Main Types of Car Insurance in Ukraine

Ukrainian legislation provides several types of insurance coverage for drivers. The key one is Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance (known as MTPL). It covers damage caused to third parties in the event of a traffic accident — both material losses and health-related damages. Every vehicle operating on Ukrainian roads must have such a policy.

For drivers entering Ukraine with a foreign-registered vehicle, the international Green Card system is available. It confirms that your car has valid insurance coverage recognized in Ukraine. If you do not have a Green Card, you can purchase a local MTPL policy directly at the border or online before entering the country.

Additionally, there is voluntary car insurance (CASCO), which is not mandatory but protects your own vehicle from theft, damage, or natural disasters. It’s an optimal choice for long trips or driving in high-risk areas.

Short-Term Insurance Policy: Convenient for Brief Trips

Not every driver needs a year-long policy. Sometimes it’s enough to get coverage just for the duration of your trip or transit. In Ukraine, this is possible through a short-term MTPL policy, which is a standard form of mandatory liability insurance valid for a limited period, usually from 15 days to one month.

This option is convenient for foreigners entering Ukraine without a Green Card or for vehicles with transit plates. You can buy it directly at the border or online before your journey.

A short-term policy provides basic liability coverage for damages caused to third parties but does not cover your own vehicle. If you plan to stay in Ukraine longer or travel between several regions, it’s better to purchase a full standard policy with extended coverage.

Liability for Driving Without Insurance

In Ukraine, every driver is legally required to have valid car insurance while driving. Police officers are authorized to request proof of insurance, and the absence of a valid policy leads to a fine. If a road accident occurs, an uninsured driver bears full financial responsibility for all damages.

This means paying out of pocket for repairs, medical expenses, or compensation to the injured party. For foreign drivers, this can also result in complications when leaving the country or when re-entering later.

Even a short-term policy is not a formality: it’s a simple way to protect yourself and travel legally on Ukrainian roads.

How to Choose the Right Insurance Policy?

Before purchasing insurance, consider how long you’ll stay in Ukraine and where you’ll be driving. For short visits, temporary car insurance will be sufficient. For longer stays, it’s better to choose a full insurance plan with broader coverage.

When selecting a policy, pay attention to:

• Whether the insurer has an official license and accreditation in Ukraine;
• The coverage limits and payout conditions;
• Whether the policy can be purchased online and delivered via email;
• Availability of customer support in English.

These factors will help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure your journey complies with Ukrainian regulations.

Where to Get Car Insurance for Traveling in Ukraine?

You can easily purchase or extend car insurance in Ukraine through the Visit Ukraine platform. The website features verified insurance providers offering policies tailored for foreign drivers and tourists.

Visit Ukraine helps you compare options, calculate the cost, and obtain your policy online: quickly, safely, and officially. Take care of your peace of mind on the road – get your car insurance through Visit Ukraine and enjoy your journey across the country with confidence.