This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Any plans to relocate to or visit Ukraine should be put on hold until the situation is stabilised, and all embassy safety directives should be followed.

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Any plans to relocate to or visit Ukraine should be put on hold until the situation is stabilised, and all embassy safety directives should be followed.

Ukrainian embassies

• Embassy of Ukraine, Washington, DC, United States: +1 202 349 2963
• Embassy of Ukraine, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7727 6312
• Embassy of Ukraine, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 230 2961
• Embassy of Ukraine, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6230 5789
• Embassy of Ukraine, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 460 1943
• Embassy of Ukraine, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 668 5189

Foreign embassies in Ukraine

• United States Embassy, Kyiv: +380 44 521 5000
• British Embassy, Kyiv: +380 44 808 164 8810
• Canadian Embassy, Kyiv: +380 44 590 3100
• Australian Embassy, Chișinău, Moldova (also for Ukraine): +61 2 6261 3305
• South African Embassy, Kyiv: + 380 44 338 2602
• Embassy of Ireland, Kyiv: +380 67 448 0786

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Any plans to relocate to or visit Ukraine should be put on hold until the situation is stabilised, and all embassy safety directives should be followed.

A brief history of Ukraine

Early history

• 4500 BCE: The Cucuteni-Trypillian culture emerges in present-day Ukraine. Noteworthy for their early urban settlements, these people were advanced farmers and artisans, crafting intricate pottery and textiles.
• 882 CE: Ukraine becomes part of the Kievan Rus, a federation of Slavic tribes. This state unifies Eastern Europe, facilitating trade and cultural exchanges with the Byzantine Empire and Northern Europe.
• 988: Grand Prince Vladimir the Great of Kyiv converts to Christianity, adopting Eastern Orthodoxy. This move aligns Ukraine with Byzantine traditions and fortifies its political and cultural ties.
• 1240: The Mongol Empire invades, shattering the Kyivan Rus. This invasion leads to the region's fragmentation and a significant cultural and economic setback.
• 1657–1687: Ukraine experiences a cultural and political revival known as the Cossack Hetmanate. This autonomous state fosters a resurgence in Ukrainian culture, governance and military prowess.

Russian Empire

• 1793: Ukraine becomes part of the Russian Empire, and efforts are made to assimilate Ukrainians into the empire. Policies such as banning Ukrainian language publications and restricting education in Ukrainian aim to erode Ukrainian national identity. Russian leaders justified these policies as necessary for national unity and stability.

Revolution to WWII

• 1917: Following the February Revolution in Russia, the Ukrainian Central Rada is formed. This body declares autonomy in June and full independence as the Ukrainian People's Republic in January 1918, laying the groundwork for national self-determination.
• 1922: Ukraine is invaded by Soviet Russia and becomes part of the Soviet Union as the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. This marks the start of Soviet control. Soviet policies promoted some cultural expression but also imposed Russification, suppressing Ukrainian identity.
• 1932–1933: Ukraine suffers greatly during the Holodomor – a man-made famine caused by Stalin's forced collectivisation and grain requisition policies, leading to the death of millions of Ukrainians, ensuing peasant dissidence and Stalin's harsh crackdown on civil disobedience in the region. This event remains a source of trauma and resentment in Ukraine towards Russia.
• 1941–1944: During World War II, Ukraine is occupied by Nazi Germany. Ukrainians fight on both sides of the conflict, with a majority fighting in the Red Army, and the war results in mass destruction and significant loss of life, including the lives of 1.5 million Ukrainian Jews in the Holocaust.
• 1945: The end of World War II brings territorial expansion for Ukraine following the Soviet annexation of eastern Poland, previously agreed upon in the Hitler-Stalin Pact of 1939.

Post-Stalin to Independence

• 1954: Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev transfers Crimea from the Russian SFSR to the Ukrainian SSR, strengthening Ukraine's territory within the Soviet Union. This move is later contested and becomes a focal point in Ukraine-Russia relations.
• 1986: The Chornobyl disaster occurs in Ukraine when a nuclear reactor explodes, causing widespread environmental damage and human suffering, with long-lasting health and ecological impacts.
• 1991: Ukraine declares independence from the Soviet Union following a referendum where 92 percent vote for independence. The country faces significant challenges transitioning to democracy, grappling with corruption, economic stagnation and political instability.

Independence

• 2000–2003: Ukraine seeks closer ties with the European Union and NATO, motivated by aspirations for democratic values, economic development, and geopolitical security. These moves face resistance from Russia, which views them as a threat to its regional influence.
• 2004: The Orange Revolution unfolds as mass protests challenge a disputed presidential election, resulting in a re-run and the election of Viktor Yushchenko. This revolution shifts Ukraine's orientation towards the West and strains relations with Russia.
• 2010: Viktor Yanukovych is elected President on a platform of uniting Ukraine's regions and strengthening relations with Russia while maintaining Ukraine's run for accession to the EU.
• 2013: Protests known as the Euromaidan movement erupt in Kyiv when Yanukovych halts plans to sign an Association Agreement with the European Union, opting instead for closer ties with Russia. Public discontent with corruption, a desire for European integration, and cultural identity issues drive the protests.

Russo-Ukrainian War

• 2014: Ukraine faces a major political crisis with the Euromaidan protests, leading to the ousting of President Yanukovych. In response, Russia seizes Crimea and backs an insurgency in eastern Ukraine, purportedly to safeguard Russian-speaking populations.
• 2014: Following Yanukovych's ouster, Russia organises a referendum on Crimea's unification with Russia. The results show an overwhelming majority in favour, but the vote is condemned as illegal by the Ukrainian government and most countries, particularly Western ones.
• 2014–2022: The conflict in eastern Ukraine intensifies as pro-Russian separatists, with support from Russia, seize parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The Minsk agreements, aimed at ceasing hostilities, are signed but fail to bring lasting peace.
• Thousands of civilians are displaced by the ongoing conflict, despite numerous ceasefire attempts. Ukraine adopts constitutional amendments cementing its aspirations to join the European Union and NATO. Russia's construction of the Kerch Strait Bridge connecting mainland Russia to Crimea is completed, further solidifying its control over the region.
• 2022: Russian forces launch a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, targeting major cities and attempting to overthrow President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's government, claiming the invasion is necessary to 'denazify' Ukraine and protect Russian-speaking citizens. Ukrainian forces mount a strong resistance, resulting in a prolonged and intense conflict.
• The United Nations, the European Union and numerous countries impose sanctions on Russia for its actions in Ukraine, providing extensive military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Sanctions target Russian officials, businesses and sectors of the Russian economy, aiming to pressure Russia to cease its aggression.
• 2024: As of early 2024, the conflict continues with no decisive end in sight. Over 400,000 Russian and Ukrainian military personnel have been killed or injured. Civilian casualties have exceeded 50,000, and more than 18 million people have been displaced or have fled the country. The humanitarian crisis remains severe, with widespread damage to infrastructure and ongoing needs for food, shelter and medical aid.

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Any plans to relocate to or visit Ukraine should be put on hold until the situation is stabilised, and all embassy safety directives should be followed.

Moving to Ukraine

Moving to Ukraine offers a unique blend of experiences, with heavy industrial areas sitting alongside beautiful architecture and stunning natural scenery. This is a country of contrasts that you will find fascinating.

Decades of Soviet rule and post-independence challenges are still evident, yet Ukraine's closer relationship with the EU is making it increasingly accessible to Western Europe. The transition to a market economy and gradual democratic progress highlight Ukraine's evolving landscape.

Living in Ukraine as an expat

Living in Ukraine as an expat reveals a country with impressive economic growth. You will find established manufacturing and commodities sectors alongside an evolving agriculture industry, all set to improve with increased trade with the EU. The burgeoning information technology sector is another highlight.

Before the political unrest, European tourism was a key economic contributor, thanks to Ukraine's abundance of hiking, skiing, fishing and hunting opportunities, as well as its ancient castles, Soviet-era monuments, vineyards and beaches. These attractions continue to be compelling reasons for your move to Ukraine.

Kyiv, the capital city, is fast becoming one of Europe's most exciting cultural hubs. You'll enjoy sophisticated cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and contemporary art that acknowledges the country's fascinating history.

Cost of living in Ukraine

The cost of living in Kyiv is lower than in most other European capitals, although it does come with the highest cost of living in Ukraine. You will find housing particularly affordable, and healthcare is free to residents, although the quality can vary.

Expat families and children

Major structural reforms are set to improve government services and quality of life. This is also true for education. If you move to Ukraine with your family, you'll find several good public Ukrainian schools. For those who can afford it, there are also private international schools in Kyiv.

Climate in Ukraine

Ukraine's weather can be chilly, typical of many Eastern European countries. Make sure to bundle up well during the winter months and stay indoors during heavy snowfall.

While Ukraine isn't the most typical expat destination, if you're seeking a less beaten path, you will be richly rewarded with a unique experience.

Fast facts

Population: About 43 million

Capital city: Kyiv

Neighbouring countries: Going clockwise, starting from the southeast, Ukraine is bordered by Romania, Moldova, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Belarus and Russia.

Geography: Ukraine's geography is incredibly diverse, consisting of everything from plateaus and steppes to mountains and highlands. The country also has a vast southern coastline, stretching around 1,700 miles (2,730 km).

Political system: Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic

Major religions: Orthodox Christianity

Main language: Ukrainian, although Russian is also widely spoken.

Money: The official currency is the Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH), subdivided into 100 kopiyok. ATMs are commonplace in Ukraine, particularly in Kyiv.

Tipping: While tipping isn't mandatory, it's usually expected in areas popular with foreigners. A 10 to 15 percent tip is the norm at restaurants, though sometimes this is included as a service charge.

Time: GMT+2 (GMT+3 during summer)

Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Plugs have two round pins.

Internet domain: .ua

International dialling code: +380

Emergency numbers: 112

Transport: Driving is on the right-hand side of the road in Ukraine. You may prefer to use public transport, which is easily accessible, affordable, and safer than driving.

This article was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Any plans to relocate to or visit Ukraine should be put on hold until the situation is stabilised, and all embassy safety directives should be followed.

Ukraine is one of the largest countries in Europe, both in area and population. It's a country with a rich, albeit conflict-heavy, history. Things are constantly in flux as Ukraine navigates its future. The country is establishing closer ties with the European Union and reimagining itself as a cultural centre of Eastern Europe.

Ukraine's Soviet past might give you the impression that it is grim-faced and gloomy, but if you stick around for a while, you'll discover that the pros outweigh the cons in this misunderstood country. If you enjoy a good challenge, you'll find life in Ukraine to be a new and captivating adventure.

Accommodation in Ukraine

If you move to Ukraine, you'll find that accommodation can be inexpensive, even in metropolitan areas. However, buying and renting property should be done with caution and possibly a lawyer, as there are frequent reports of scams.

+ PRO: Cheap housing

Compared with the rest of Europe, Ukraine has an astonishingly low cost of living, despite it becoming slightly more expensive in the larger cities.

- CON: Finding an apartment can be difficult

While it is possible to find an apartment on your own (using online or printed classifieds), many people opt for a realtor. Realtors run the real estate game in Ukraine: some merely provide the phone number of a landlord, while others will escort you to the apartment and interact on your behalf, but fees can be high. Meanwhile, Ukraine is riddled with real-estate scams that go mostly ignored by the government. You should be cautious and never hand over money before finding out exactly what is being offered.

Culture and lifestyle in Ukraine

Ukraine has a rich cultural history and the lifestyle is characterised by good food, deep friendships and a love of nature. That said, the near constant threat of conflict is among the problems that you might face in Ukraine.

+ PRO: Captivating history, art and architecture

Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, was founded approximately 1,400 years ago and was a major centre of cultural and political influence even into the Soviet era. Throughout the centuries, Ukraine has seen rich, global influences on the entire country's art and architecture: from the fluted domes and spires that crown Kyiv to the industrial modernism of later years.

+ PRO: Amazing food

Ukraine is making the old new again by using traditional methods to make food that appeals to the contemporary palate. You should try local favourites such as a steaming bowl of borscht (beet soup) with a creamy dollop of sour cream on the side. If this does not appeal, thin pancakes filled with anything from strawberry jam to garlic-fried mushrooms will hit the spot. Everything from cherry dumplings, cabbage rolls and cold summer soups to delicious honey cake is on offer.

+ PRO: Beautiful landscape

The geography of Ukraine is bewilderingly diverse, and this means there is a lot to see and do. Summertime beaches are packed with families on a fun day out and young adults looking to party. Aside from the beautiful beaches, there's a virtually unlimited supply of castles, ancient ruins and caves to explore. Meanwhile, the nighttime party circuit is legendary.

- CON: Corruption and bureaucracy

Unfortunately, corruption is still commonplace. Police often hassle foreigners for a 'small gift'. Shady businesses operate with seemingly no repercussions. Getting anything done officially takes a lot of time, patience, and the occasional 'extra fee' for officials.

Transport in Ukraine

+ PRO: Train travel

Getting around Ukraine is easy. While a small number of people prefer to fly or drive, most travel by rail. Trains criss-cross the country on short day trips and overnight journeys.

+ PRO: Easy access to transport

Private cars are almost prohibitively expensive on the average Ukrainian salary, so many people rely on public transport. Because of this, it's impossible to go more than 15 minutes without seeing a taxi, city bus or tram. Larger cities, such as Kyiv, have metro systems that are affordable, incredibly clean and convenient.

Cost of living in Ukraine

+ PRO: Cheap alcohol and travel abroad

Alcohol (especially locally produced beer and wine) retails in Ukraine for much less than it does in other countries. All this means that unless a huge amount of luxury is involved, a night out on the town will leave you with more than enough money for breakfast the next day.

If you have a holiday coming up, travel packages are sold at local travel agencies. All-inclusive vacations to Turkey and Egypt are hot sellers, while outbound plane tickets from Ukraine to other destinations in Europe are available at a low price.

- CON: Expensive electronics and clothing

All the newest electronic devices are available in Ukraine but at a premium. For this reason, you might ask friends travelling abroad to bring back electronics when returning to Ukraine.

Clothing is another popular item to buy abroad because the quality of fabrics sold in Ukraine can be rather low. This can be partially avoided by buying more expensive articles, but this isn't always a sure bet.

Healthcare in Ukraine

+ PRO: Affordable medicine and healthcare

The word is getting out about healthcare in Ukraine and each year brings more medical tourists to the country. Dental work is one of the most common requests and English-speaking dentists are becoming increasingly common in large cities.

- CON: Healthcare is still ironing out some problems

While the healthcare situation in Ukraine has improved radically, some remnants of an inefficient past still remain, particularly in terms of bribery – in some cases bribes may be expected in order to receive proper care.