Ukraine and the European Union will soon extend the transport visa-free regime for another year - until the end of June 2025.
This was announced by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
"Ukraine and the European Union will soon extend the "transport visa-free regime" for a period until the end of June 2025. Today, the Government has approved the order of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to appoint authorised persons to sign this agreement," Shmyhal said.
In particular, after the visa-free regime is extended, drivers will be able to continue to carry out bilateral transport without permits. This step is also an incentive for Ukrainian manufacturers.
"Last year, exports by road to the European Union increased by about 30% compared to 2021. Liberalisation also accelerates the import of goods and components needed by domestic businesses," Shmyhal wrote.
Transport visa-free regime between the EU and Ukraine
- Ukraine signed a transport visa-free regime agreement with the EU, covering freight transport by road, in June 2022. It was approved by Zelenskyy in September and ratified by the European Parliament in November. However, the agreement came into force before the ratification procedures were completed.
- The EU-Ukraine Solidarity Roads were created as an alternative to Black Sea shipping routes after Ukraine's ports were blocked by Russia. This allowed additional trucks to transport vital goods to Ukraine.
- The document simplified the recognition of Ukrainian driving licences. Ukraine and the EU have exempted holders of driving licences issued by one of the parties from the requirement to hold an international driving licence. Certificates of professional competence are also valid for driving in the EU.
- However, the transport visa-free regime led to protests from Polish hauliers in November 2023. As a result, Poland wanted to amend the agreement between Ukraine and the EU.
- In March, the European Commission proposed to extend the transport agreement with Ukraine until the end of 2025, but with some changes.