Use of credit cards is limited to better hotels, Western-style restaurants, international airlines and select stores. Customs regulations prohibit sending cash, traveler's checks, personal checks, credit cards, or passports through the international mail system to Ukraine. These items are regularly confiscated as contraband by customs authorities. Changing U.S. dollars for Ukrainian hryvnia or another currency is legal only at banks, currency exchange desks at hotels, and at licensed exchange booths. Travelers must declare all cash and jewelry, regardless of value, upon entering Ukraine.
Any undeclared items are subject to confiscation.
Additionally, travelers should retain their customs forms as they will be required to present these forms upon departure from Ukraine. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Americans may register at the Consular section of the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security within Ukraine.