What has changed in Ukraine since July 1: all key changes

On July 1, 2025, numerous changes in the areas of energy, transport, social protection, education, healthcare, and public administration came into force in Ukraine. Learn more about important updates

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With the onset of July, several important reforms and innovations were launched in Ukraine in various areas, ranging from energy and transport to social protection and healthcare. Some of them are part of Ukraine's European integration course, while others are a response to internal challenges and the demand for more efficient services for citizens.

In this article, we have compiled all the major changes that came into effect on July 1, 2025.

Changes for families, IDPs, and drivers: what came into effect in July

The Pension Fund administers more social benefits

Starting in July, the Pension Fund of Ukraine (PFU) will administer social benefits that were previously handled by social protection agencies:

- assistance to persons with disabilities who do not receive a pension;

- care assistance;

- funeral assistance, etc.

This has expanded the number of points of contact — now you can receive services at PFU service centers, in addition to ASCs and local councils.

If you need help with documentation for your business, Visit Ukraine's lawyers are ready to assist with issues of virtually any complexity.

IDP checks: monitoring of stays abroad

On July 1, the Ministry of Finance introduced checks on IDPs who have been abroad for more than 90 consecutive days. In this case:

The IDP certificate will be revoked;

Social benefits will be suspended.

The following are not counted in the 90 days:

business trips;

medical treatment, rehabilitation, education;

childcare;

death of a relative;

stay in hospitals or judicial authorities.

All circumstances must be documented.

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Start of the 2025 admission campaign

On July 1, electronic accounts for applicants were opened, and from July 19 to August 1, applications will be accepted by higher education institutions. The cost of contract-based education has increased, which affects the choice of specialties by applicants.

New voltage standard: 230 volts in the grid

As part of the harmonization of standards with the European Union, a new voltage standard has been introduced in Ukraine — 230 V instead of 220 V.

What does this mean for consumers?

There are no noticeable changes: most electrical appliances (especially imported ones) are already designed to operate at 230 V.

Electricity bills will not change, as the tariff is calculated based on the number of kilowatt-hours consumed, not the voltage.

There is no risk to appliances: information on the permissible voltage can be found on the device itself or on its charger.

First gas imports via the Trans-Balkan corridor

Ukraine has started receiving gas through the Trans-Balkan corridor, a route that runs from Greece through Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova. The first auction took place in June, and deliveries are already underway in July.

Why is this important?

This is an additional source of energy supplies ahead of the heating season.

The route increases Ukraine's energy security.

Demand is still low, but the potential for greater energy flexibility is significant.

Affordable medicines now available in every pharmacy

From now on, all pharmacies are required to join the “Affordable Medicines” program, otherwise they will lose their license. This means:

Medicines with an e-prescription can be obtained at any pharmacy, not just at a hospital;

Medicines are free or available with a partial co-payment;

Access to medicines has become much wider.

Paid travel for schoolchildren and new prices for transport cards in Kyiv

From July 1 to August 31, 2025, schoolchildren and cadets of military universities in Kyiv will pay for travel on public transport.

There is a 75% discount on travel passes — 325 UAH per month with no restrictions.

Travel passes can be purchased in the Kyiv Digital app, at terminals, at metro ticket offices, or via EasyPay.

The prices of transport cards have also increased:

Blue card — 96 UAH;

Personalized student card — 120 UAH.

Previously purchased cards remain valid.

Updated rules for cash on delivery at Ukrposhta

From July 1, new limits have been introduced for cash on delivery transactions at Ukrposhta branches for individuals:

- up to 100,000 UAH per month;

- no more than 10 transactions per month.

For payments to bank cards, the limits remain unchanged — up to 250,000 UAH per month / up to 500 transactions.

New basic social assistance for low-income families

The Pension Fund has launched a pilot project that combines several types of assistance into a basic social payment. It is available to:

- low-income families;

- single mothers;

- large families;

- children whose parents do not pay child support.

From October 1, other families that meet the criteria will be able to join.

How to apply?

Through the Diya portal;

At the PFU service center — regardless of place of residence.

How much will be paid?

The base amount is UAH 4,500.

For the first family member (adult or child under 18) — 100%;

For each subsequent member — 70%.

The assistance is granted for 6 months, with automatic renewal within the project's duration (until 2027).

Technical inspection with video recording

The main innovation is the mandatory photo and video recording of the technical inspection process. Requirements:

At least 2 cameras;

The car must occupy at least 70% of the frame;

Violations will result in the cancellation of the inspection report.

Drivers operating a car without a valid technical inspection will be fined 340 UAH.

Violations by service stations will result in a fine of UAH 1,400.

Passenger cars owned by individuals that are not used for commercial purposes are not required to undergo technical inspection.

On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can find several types of insurance for your car.

Reminder! Many Ukrainians are planning to return home after the war. Find out how to legally prepare, update your documents and apply for compensation to ensure a safe and secure return.