Getting an Electronic Visa and Becoming an Entrepreneur In Ukraine: Getting Simpler
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (MFA) and the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine (MJU) have recently introduced several measures to improve the process of getting a visa to enter Ukraine and becomу a registered private entrepreneur in Ukraine.
Receiving an electronic visa
Nationals of 47 countries can now apply for a visa electronically. The list mostly covers countries from Latin America, the Middle East, and South-Eastern Asia, including, among others, New Zealand, Thailand, Singapore, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Peru, Mexico, and Bolivia.
An application can be filled out online on the MFA website. A single-entry e-visa is issued for up to 30 days for visiting on business or as a tourist.
The application process includes: (1) registration on the MFA website; (2) filling out an application form and uploading a photo; (3) adding the scanned copies of: (i) passport pages containing personal data, (ii) valid health insurance with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000, (iii) a document confirming availability of sufficient funds for the duration of stay in Ukraine and return to the country of origin and (iv) a document confirming purpose of the trip; (4) payment of consular fees (the amount starts from USD 65) through the MFA website.
When applying for a business e-visa, one should submit either an invitation from a Ukrainian legal entity/public body, or a document confirming foreign investment into Ukraine. When applying for a tourist visa, documents should be submitted confirming this purpose.
The e-visa application process should not exceed nine business days, after which a visa is sent to the e-mail address registered on the MFA website.
Registering as a private entrepreneur
While previously a foreigner had to present a residence permit as proof of his registered address in Ukraine to apply for a private entrepreneur status, the MJU has recently clarified that this is no longer the case. After clarification, an expat can provide other documents to evidence his address, e.g. a residential property lease contract, information from the state property registry, etc.
From now on, the process of registering as a private entrepreneur includes: (1) receiving a tax payer ID number; and (2) obtaining information from the state property registry on the proprietary right to real estate in Ukraine or providing a lease contract.
The said improvements should positively affect the development of the human capital flow and will make Ukraine a more attractive destination for foreign entrepreneurs wishing to conduct business in Ukraine. Particularly given attractive taxation for individual tax residents.
