Ukrainian cabinet of ministers ordered a survey about problems of foreigners in the country. The poll revealed 4 major issues that prevent foreign citizens from feeling comfortable in Ukraine.
4 problems that make life in Ukraine uncomfortable for foreign citizens
Dmytro Dubilet, the Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers, explained the most common problems of foreigners on his Facebook page.
The theme is important, Dubilet pointed out, because Ukraine is looking to increase the volume of foreign investments.
1. 90-day limit to stay
Citizens of many countries are allowed to enter Ukraine without a visa (including the European Union and USA), but they cannot stay for longer than 90 days.
This issue was mentioned by expats most often.
It is also impossible for a foreigner to live in a hotel, if they intend to stay longer than 3 months. In this case, a foreigner has to rent an apartment, and include the information about its owner along with the application documents to apply for an extension.
2. Hard to get a permit to work or study
This is a highly annoying issue for foreigners who want to reside in the country for some time. Such permits can be only obtained from outside of the borders. It’s impossible to apply in Kyiv, for instance.
3. Unfriendly service in the government offices
The need to visit in person the office makes it hard not only for foreigners, but also puts extra burden and expenses on the system. It could be organized better, Dubilet believes.
4. Problems in opening bank accounts
It is also hard to open a bank account for someone with a foreign passport. The process is overly regulated.
Life in Ukraine is very cheap, this is why there are people with foreign passports who would love to reside in the country for some time. But the issues above make it inconvenient. The government is now looking into the results of the survey, with the view to propose changes to the system.
Read also:
- Travel in Ukraine: ‘The train of 4 capitals’
- Ukraine: 2 years of visa free regime with the European Union
- How much money do you need to live in Ukraine?
- A true story about dating in Kiev — Must read
What if an American gets married before 3 months are up and works from making money online?
Mark, if you are married to a Ukrainian citizen, you can apply for a spouse visa to stay in Ukraine.