NBU Eases Some FX Restrictions
The NBU conducts financial market operations as part of its monetary policy, which pursues low and stable inflation
Can households buy foreign currency in Ukraine?
Yes. First, the banks, non-bank financial institutions, and postal operators are allowed to sell cash foreign currency to the public. The NBU has not set any restrictions on the purchase of cash foreign currency for cash hryvnias.
However, given the limit of UAH 100,000 per day for withdrawals of cash hryvnia from accounts, the same limit applies to the purchase of cash foreign currency for non-cash hryvnias.
Second, Ukrainians can buy non-cash foreign currency online, including through mobile applications of banks. The monthly amount for the purchase of non-cash foreign currency without any justifications or obligations is currently capped at the equivalent of UAH 50,000 (excluding bank fees).
In addition, it is possible to buy the equivalent of up to UAH 200,000 per month in non-cash foreign currency, which must then be used to make an irrevocable deposit for a period of three months or more. Upon expiration of the deposit, households will be able to use the purchased foreign currency.
What transfers are allowed for individuals?
Today, most transfers from Ukraine abroad are subject to restrictions. This is important to prevent the outflow of foreign currency from Ukraine and to continue to ensure the reliable and stable functioning of the country's financial system and the uninterrupted operation of critical infrastructure.
The exceptions include paying tuition fees abroad, making alimony payments, and covering expenses abroad related to the death of Ukrainian citizens, treatment in medical institutions, prosthetics, and transportation of patients, which can be made without restrictions.
In addition, to facilitate the work of volunteers, individuals are allowed to purchase and transfer foreign currency abroad for the purchase of military goods within the monthly limit of the equivalent of UAH 400,000. Such goods include UAVs, thermal scopes, walkie-talkies, body armor, hard hats, helmets, military and tactical uniforms and footwear, protective clothing, optical surveillance devices, sleeping bags, thermal blankets, heating pads, and first-aid kits and equipment.
In addition, Ukrainians may perform transfers using a payment card, in particular:
However, transfers from hryvnia payment cards to cards of foreign banks are prohibited.
Are there any restrictions on withdrawing cash in Ukraine?
Yes, there is a limit on cash withdrawals in Ukraine. The equivalent of up to UAH 100,000 in domestic or foreign currency can be withdrawn from an account per day.
At the same time, there are no restrictions on non-cash payments in hryvnias.
What are the limits for transactions with cards of Ukrainian banks abroad?
The following limits are set for hryvnia payment cards opened in Ukrainian banks:
The following limits are set for foreign currency payment cards opened with Ukrainian banks:
At the same time, other transactions at retailers abroad with foreign currency cards issued by Ukrainian banks may be carried out without restrictions.