Ukrainians with biometric passports will soon be able to travel to the EU (and Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland) without the need for visa. That is the proposal of the EC of 20 April. EU and Ukraine have been in “visa liberalization dialogue” since 2008 and this EC´s step is seen as recognition of Ukraine´s reform efforts. If a majority of MEPs and a qualified majority of member states in the Council agree with the proposal, Ukrainians with biometric passports will be allowed to enter the EU for a period of 90 days in any 180-day period for business and leisure activities. The visa liberalization does not in any way mean that Ukrainians would be allowed to work in the EU – the current practice of work permits is in no way affected by the proposal. Ukrainians will also be required to prove sufficient funds for financing their stay in the EU, as well as the purpose of their visit. The process of formal adoption of visa-free travel is expected to last several months.

For more, click here, here and here.