Ukraine has officially reinstated its e-Visa program, allowing travelers from 45 countries to submit their applications online, effective February 17, 2025. The move marks a significant step towards reviving the country's tourism sector, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict with Russia.

The e-Visa program was initially launched on April 4, 2018, but was suspended in 2022 due to the conflict. With its reinstatement, Ukraine is now open to tourists from 45 countries, including three African nations: Seychelles, Mauritius, and South Africa. This development simplifies travel arrangements and enables eligible citizens to submit their visa applications online, eliminating the need for in-person consulate visits.

According to Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an e-Visa is issued remotely online by an authorized person from the Department of Consular Service through the internet and the visa information and telecommunications system. To obtain an e-Visa, foreigners must submit their visa application within a specific timeframe: no earlier than three months and no later than one business day for urgent applications or three business days for regular applications before the planned trip.

The cost of a Ukraine e-Visa is $20 for a single-entry and $30 for a double-entry, with the fee doubling if processed under urgent procedure. In cases where a minor or incapacitated person is applying, a parent or legal representative must submit the visa application on their behalf. The e-Visa is available as a single or double entry for up to 30 days, allowing entry into Ukraine for various purposes, including business, private visits, tourism, medical treatment, cultural and scientific activities, sports, and journalistic activities.

Ukraine's decision to reinstate its e-Visa program comes amid urgent calls for a ceasefire between the government and Russia. The Trump administration has announced plans for further talks with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine, with the first meeting between U.S. and Russian officials taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The reinstatement of the e-Visa program is a significant step towards Ukraine's commitment to reviving its tourism sector and welcoming international visitors once again. Government data from 2020 shows that Ukraine hosted over 76,000 foreign students, with nearly a quarter of these students coming from Africa, primarily from Nigeria, Morocco, and Egypt.

The move is also expected to have a positive impact on Ukraine's economy, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict. The country is working to expand its access to African markets, with plans to open a food hub in Egypt.

As Ukraine reopens its doors to international tourists, the reinstatement of the e-Visa program is a significant development that is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country's tourism sector and economy as a whole.