In October 2025, a number of important changes will be implemented in Ukraine that affect most citizens. Among the main innovations are the start of the heating season, tax updates, new entry rules for European Union countries, as well as changes in social payments and bank transfers. Additionally, in October, Ukrainians traditionally switch to winter time.
This is reported by Finway
Social Payments and Expansion of Support Programs
Starting in October, some types of social assistance will be combined into a comprehensive payment available through the “Diia” app. Previously, this assistance was available to low-income families, single mothers, or children whose parents do not pay alimony, but now it will also be provided to persons with disabilities and citizens who have not accumulated the necessary work experience for retirement.
The “School Package” program has also undergone changes. From now on, it covers not only expenses for clothing, footwear, and stationery for children but also provides the opportunity to purchase books. Starting in January 2026, a list of stores where this package can be used will be introduced.
Heating, Tariffs, and Clock Changes
October marks the start of the heating season. The dates for its commencement depend on the region and weather conditions, but traditionally, heating is provided when the average daily temperature does not exceed +8°C for three consecutive days. The cost of utilities typically increases during the autumn-winter period. However, there is a moratorium on raising tariffs for gas heating, and users of electric heating will continue to benefit from a reduced price under conditions of economical electricity use.
The electricity tariff is fixed only until the end of October 2025: residential consumers pay 4.32 UAH per kWh during the day and 2.16 UAH at night.
The clock change to winter time will occur on the last Sunday of October – on the 26th at 4:00 AM. Clocks should be set back one hour. Mechanical clocks need to be adjusted manually, while electronic devices will change the time automatically.
Bank Transfers and Tax Innovations
Starting October 1, 2025, all card and bank transfers will be conducted through the Open Banking system. This will allow banks to obtain more information about transfer participants, track transaction chains, and improve interaction between financial institutions. This system is expected to enhance security and reduce the risks of fraud.
From October 1, the State Tax Service of Ukraine will introduce new rates for land tax, change the rules for quarterly reporting, and allow individuals not to pay the Unified Social Contribution (USC) if it has already been paid by the employer or the amount exceeds the minimum insurance contribution.
Additionally, enterprises with licenses for the sale of alcohol, cigarettes, or fuel must ensure that employees receive a salary of at least 16,000 UAH in Kyiv and regional centers, and a minimum of 12,000 UAH in other cities.
Identification of Social Assistance Recipients and New EU Entry Rules
Recipients of social assistance (including disability or caregiving benefits) must undergo mandatory identification at the Pension Fund by November 1, 2025. This can be done in person at the office or through the “Diia” app.
For Ukrainians planning to travel to EU countries, new entry rules are in effect: starting October 12, EU border guards will collect biometric data instead of stamping passports. This requires consent for facial and fingerprint scanning. Refusal to undergo this procedure will result in denial of entry.
October Holidays of 2025
October is rich in religious and national holidays. On October 1, Wednesday, the Protection of the Holy Virgin and Defender’s Day of Ukraine are celebrated. Other important dates include Teacher’s Day (October 5), Doctor’s Day (October 6), and Ukrainian Language Day (October 27), for which a nationwide radio dictation is traditionally held.