The border between Ukraine and Romania is one of the key areas of evacuation, transit and return home for Ukrainian citizens during wartime. With the outbreak of a full-scale war, millions of people crossed this particular section of the border, fleeing from danger. In 2025, it remains a vital humanitarian route. However, like any international border, this border requires preparation, knowledge of procedures, documents and understanding of the current situation. This especially applies to refugees who go on a journey with children, pets, often without previous travel experience. IA “FAKT” examined in detail what Ukrainians should consider before traveling: which checkpoints are in operation, when is the best time to leave, what documents do you need to have, how to get insurance, what border guards pay attention to, and how the rules change depending on the situation in the country.
Where to cross: how checkpoints work and when to wait in line
There are 13 checkpoints on the Ukrainian-Romanian border, of which 5 are automobile checkpoints. The most important for civil crossings are Porubne–Siret (Chernivtsi region), Solotvino–Shiget Marmatsiei (Transcarpathia), Dyakove–Khalmeu, Dyakovtsi–Rakovets, and Krasnoilsk–Vikovu de Sous. All these points work 24/7, but the waiting time can be significant, especially during periods of active departures (after shelling, before the rotation of the mobilized, during religious holidays, etc.).
It is extremely important to check the current state of the queues before the trip. The State Customs Service of Ukraine publishes traffic data on the website customs.gov.ua every day. It is worth considering that queues are usually shorter in the morning, while in the evening and at night, the load increases, especially on pedestrian and bus routes.
What documents do refugees need to leave Ukraine for Romania
Despite the humanitarian nature of many departures, border guards work according to clear standards. In 2025, Ukrainians traveling to Romania need to have:
- Foreign passport — for adults.
- An internal passport or ID card — in the case of internally displaced persons or those who do not have a foreign passport but are traveling for humanitarian reasons (in this case, additional document verification should be expected).
- Birth certificate of children – if you cross the border with a child.
- Permission of one parent for a child to travel abroad — if the child is accompanied by only one parent, grandparent, or other person.
- Documents confirming the family relationship – sometimes border guards ask for additional birth certificates, court decisions, certificates from the Central Administrative Office or consulates.
- Documents for pets – veterinary passport with vaccinations, chipping and export permit (especially for dogs and cats).
Particular attention should be paid to medical documents – vaccination certificates, prescriptions for drugs (if necessary), health certificates of persons with disabilities.
By car to Romania: what to pay attention to
Ukrainians often cross the border in their own cars. In this case, you must have:
– International driver’s license;
– Technical passport (vehicle registration certificate);
– License plate with country designation (UA);
– UA sticker, if it is not on the number;
– Insurance certificate “Green Card” – it is checked immediately upon entering the Romanian territory.
You should have a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, an emergency sign with you – these things are mandatory in the EU. Drivers can be fined for their absence even in transit. It will not be superfluous to take out voluntary car insurance (Mini-CASCO) – it is not mandatory, but it will help in case of an accident or damage to the car.
Health insurance: the need of the hour, not just the law
Even if you cross the border as a refugee, a medical policy with military risk coverage is not a formality. In Romania, despite temporary protection, emergency care may be free, but most services are paid for or covered by an insured tariff.
A medical policy for border crossing must:
– operate on the territory of Romania;
– to cover unforeseen cases (hospitalization, medical transportation, emergency care);
– to be registered with a recognized insurance company with an international partnership;
– it is desirable to have coverage for combat injuries and military risks (some policies provide for this separately).
The policy can be issued in a few minutes on the Visit Ukraine portal or at an international insurance company.
How to return to Ukraine from Romania: requirements for foreigners and citizens
Citizens of Ukraine returning home must have a valid foreign passport. Foreigners and stateless persons should prepare:
– passport or ID card;
– visa (if stipulated by agreements);
– documents confirming the purpose of entry (invitation, certificate of family ties, housing reservation);
– proof of financial capacity or guarantee letter of the receiving party;
– “Green card” — for a car;
– medical insurance.
Due to the state of war, the Ukrainian side has the right to carry out enhanced checks: inspection of cars, inquiries about routes, additional inquiries regarding accompanying persons, digital devices, etc.
Nuances that should be known before the trip
- Checkpoints may be temporarily closed due to an air alert or technical failure – stay tuned for updates from Customs.
- Truck drivers have other requirements — queues for TIR can last up to 48 hours.
- Volunteers, medics, and mobile support stations work at some points — especially in Porubny and Solotvyn.
- People with disabilities and families with small children are admitted in priority order, but you need to have proof of status (certificate of MSEK or other document).
For Ukrainians who leave the country or return, the border with Romania is a border that means safety, the unknown, a new life or a return to their native home. The main rule for everyone who sets out on the road is competent preparation. Knowing the rules, current requirements and the right package of documents is a way not only to pass the inspection faster, but also to protect yourself in critical situations. In times of war, personal safety begins with responsibility and carefully compiled documents.
