I have just returned from Ukraine, after being refused entry. I thought I understood the 90/180 day rule, however there was a part that I was not aware of.
I have carefully tracked my visits and I knew that I was at the 90 day limit when I left the country. I calculated that I would need to leave for 3 weeks in order for the earliest visit to be outside of the 180 day window. I had understood that the 180 days are rolling, so they would only look at the visits within the last 180 days. However, that is not the case.
I flew to Odessa yesterday and I was refused entry. I was advised that once you have reached 90 days within a 180 day period, you must wait 90 days from the date of your last visit before you can return. Like I said, I only waited 3 weeks.
They were not awful about it and said that I would be welcome to come back after 90 days or I can get a visa and come back straight away. Actually, they said that I might be able to get one in Warsaw and return immediately.
So, now I am looking at how to apply for a Visa. Right now, I am happy with a short term visitor visa, because I am marrying my fiance in August and we can look to do something then. I am also planning to emigrate and setup a business in Ukraine soon. But, for now, I just want to be able to go to Ukraine ASAP to see my other half and daughter. It is heartbreaking, not being able to see them.
I have done some research and I think the best type would be a Visitor (General/Friends) Visa. I'd need to get a letter of invitation from my fiance and explain that I wish to visit Ukraine to make plans for our wedding, meet family and friends and do some sightseeing. I believe this would need to be notarised by a Ukrainian official.
I'd like to know if there is anyone from England who has applied for a Ukrainian visa, what their experience was, any advice that they can give. Also, is the decision made immediately, or do you need to wait after the interview? I am looking to complete this at the Ukrainian Embassy in London, as I am back in England now.