On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine along the entire length of the common border, from the territory of Belarus and the occupied Crimea.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine have pushed Russian troops out of Kyiv, Chernihiv and Sumy regions. Also, the Armed Forces of Ukraine liberated a significant territory in the Kharkiv region. Fighting continues in Donbas and the South of Ukraine.
The West and the Center of the country are relatively calm regions. Foreigners have been coming to Lviv since the beginning of the war: journalists, volunteers, diplomats, representatives of international NGOs, etc.
Safety recommendations in martial law conditions - link.
We answer the most frequently asked questions:
1. How can foreigners get to Ukraine? Border crossing, list of required documents
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, to cross the border during the war, foreign citizens need:
- passport;
- no ban on entry into the territory of Ukraine;
- entry visa, unless otherwise provided by the legislation of Ukraine;
- confirmation of the purpose of stay.
Attention! During their stay in Ukraine under martial law, foreigners must comply with
- curfew
- rules of conduct during the "Air Alarm" and "Missile Danger" signals
More about: Lviv's hotels with generators and bomb shelters
2. How to get to Lviv?
During military operations, airports in Ukraine do not work. So, you can get to Lviv by train: the most convenient way is from Polish cities - Krakow, Warsaw or Przemyśl.
Bus routes are also available. Usually, international buses arrive at the Bus Station on Stryiska Street and Bus Station No. 8, near the Railway Station.
If you travel by car, you should take the international highways E-40, E-50 and E-573.
3. Is it safe in Lviv?
There is a war in Ukraine. Therefore, there is no completely safe place here. Everyone who is in Ukraine should take care of their safety, in particular, observe the curfew and go to the shelter during the air alarm.
There is still a threat of rocket attacks in Lviv, but their frequency is low compared to other regions of the country.
4. How far is Lviv from the front line?
There are more than 1000 kilometres of roads between Lviv and Kherson. The distance between Lviv and Kupiansk in Kharkiv region, where active fighting is taking place, is even greater. Lviv and Donetsk, near the Donbas front line, are separated by just over a thousand kilometres.
5. What is the situation with Covid-19?
According to the Ministry of Health, the incidence of Covid-19 has started to increase in Ukraine over the past month.
So, do not delay vaccinating against coronavirus: the basic and the booster dose.
In addition, do not forget to use antiseptics and other disinfectants.
Restrictions have been largely eased: you can be on the street and in public places without a mask.
6. Where to apply to a foreigner if there is a problem?
101 – State Emergency Service of Ukraine
102 – National Police of Ukraine
112 – If you notice a risky situation
Detailed information on the procedure for obtaining permits is available on the official website of the SMS of Ukraine at the link.
7. Important information
During martial law, a curfew is in effect in Lviv from 12 am to 5 am. It is not allowed to be on the street at this time without a permit.
Movement around the city may be somewhat complicated by checkpoints (especially entry/exit). Be prepared for document and car checks.
Filming and photographing at checkpoints in other strategic locations (military units, medical facilities, administrative buildings) is prohibited or possible only with special permits.
It is strictly forbidden to take suspicious objects. Be sure to have your documents with you.
You can get acquainted with the actions of the population in military emergencies on the official website of the State Emergencies Service of Ukraine.
Useful links:
Bomb shelters in Lviv and other options how to hide out
Hospitals in Lviv: medical care in the city
