When the pension certificate does not provide the right to free travel in August 2026

Pensioners of retirement age in August retain state benefits for travel, however, the pension certificate does not exempt from payment on any transport. The type of pension, route, and community rules are decisive, particularly the presence of a discounted transport card. This is reported by UkrainianWall.

Free travel for pensioners: which transport the benefit applies to

The nationwide benefit applies specifically to pensioners of retirement age. Individuals receiving a pension due to disability, loss of a breadwinner, or years of service can only avail themselves of free travel if they have another discounted status, such as a war veteran.

Free travel is available on regular city buses, trams, and trolleybuses. The benefit also applies to suburban buses and trains, including electric trains.

At the same time, the regulation does not cover taxis, intercity buses, long-distance trains, and subways. In these cases, a ticket must be purchased if the person does not have another basis for the benefit or a local program.

Subway and minibuses: when the certificate is not enough

The subway is not included in the list of transport where the benefit is guaranteed by the state. In Kyiv, free travel on the subway for pensioners of retirement age is ensured by a city program, but for this, a 'Kyiv card' is needed. The pension certificate alone is not sufficient.

In cities with electronic fare payment, the beneficiary must have an electronic ticket registered in the system. The card is issued free of charge, but it must be validated during each trip. Otherwise, the controller may consider the trip unregistered.

With minibuses, the situation depends on the specific community and the contract with the carrier. Local authorities may establish discounted seats, a mandatory transport card, or other rules for compensating carriers.

If a driver refuses the discounted fare, it is worth noting the route number, bus number, date, and time. With this information, one can contact the carrier or the local government body that organizes transportation.

As a reminder, Kyiv plans to launch a digital analogue of the Kyiv card in the Kyiv Digital app.