Ukrainian Visa

10/20/10 Update:  My NAUKOVA (research) visa arrived today.  One more hurdle behind me.

I mailed my visa application to the Ukrainian Consulate General in Chicago this morning.  I really hope everything is correct and in order.  It took some time to gather all of the information and materials and put it together.

For individuals interested in traveling to Ukraine, which is well worth a visit, Americans do not require a visa if they plan on staying less than 90 days.  If one will be in the country longer than 90 days, then there are two options:  leave Ukraine temporarily and take a trip to a neighboring country or apply for a visa.  If leaving Ukraine even temporarily is not workable, then it is best to apply for the visa early enough, so you don't find yourself without it when your departure date arrives.  I read somewhere that the Ukrainian Consulate recommends that one apply 3 months before the departure date.  For those who procrastinate, there is an expedited visa processing option, but it is rather expensive.