Pilgrims traveling to Uman are asked not to use the “Medika–Shehyni” border crossing

The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised pilgrims planning a trip to Uman for Rosh Hashanah to avoid the “Medyka–Shehyni” border crossing if possible. This is stated in a letter from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The reason is the large-scale modernization work that has been underway at this border crossing since June. The work is intended to upgrade the infrastructure and increase its capacity in the future.

However, the construction work is currently limiting the number of buses that can be processed at the border crossing.

Why there may be lines at Medyka

According to the Polish side, large-scale modernization work is underway at the “Medyka–Shehyni” border crossing.

Since June 15, a temporary traffic management plan has been in effect there for buses entering Poland.

As a result, the number of buses that can be processed at the border crossing is limited.

This is particularly important for pilgrims returning from Uman, when many groups will be heading to the Polish border at the same time.

Why the situation is critical during the return from Uman

The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes that in previous years, there was a significant flow of traffic at the border after Rosh HaShanah ended.

This led to a significant increase in waiting times.

In 2026, the situation may be complicated by:

• the modernization of the “Medyka–Shehyni” border crossing;
• limited capacity for buses;
• the EES system at the EU’s external borders;
• the simultaneous return of large groups of pilgrims;
• the rerouting of some traffic to other border crossings.

Which border crossings are recommended for Hasidic pilgrims?

The Polish side strongly recommends using alternative border crossing points whenever possible when returning from Uman.

Specifically:

• “Korchova”;
• “Budomierz.”

These are the border crossings recommended as alternatives to Medyka.

Why you shouldn’t travel through Medyka unless necessary

Choosing the “Medyka” border crossing during the mass return of pilgrims can result in hours-long waits.

This is particularly risky for those who have:

• flights from Polish airports;
• connecting flights;
• organized group tours;
• children or elderly people in the group;
• limited travel time.

Therefore, pilgrims are advised to allow for extra time and not to schedule their return “right up against” their departure time.

How the modernization has affected other checkpoints

Due to restrictions at Medyka, many transport operators have already redirected some bus and freight traffic to other border crossing points.

Specifically, these include:

• Malhowice;
• Kroscienko.

This means that these checkpoints may also experience increased traffic.

Advice for pilgrimage organizers

The Polish side recommends that organizers of pilgrimage groups provide information about their routes in advance.

The following information must be provided:

• the expected number of people in each group;
• the airports the pilgrims will use;
• border crossing points for entry into and exit from Poland.

This will help the Border Guard and customs authorities better prepare for the influx of travelers.

What Pilgrims Should Do

Before returning from Uman via Poland, pilgrims should:

• check the current situation at the border;
• if possible, avoid the “Medika–Shehyni” crossing;
• consider the “Korchova” and “Budomierz” crossings;
• take into account the EES and possible biometric registration;
• allow for extra time;
• coordinate the route with the carrier;
• Do not schedule a flight immediately after leaving Uman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are pilgrims advised to avoid the “Medika” checkpoint?

Due to the modernization of the border crossing and limited capacity for buses.

Which border crossings are recommended instead of “Medyka”?

The Polish side recommends using the “Korchova” and “Budomierz” checkpoints whenever possible.

Could there be lines at other border crossings?

Yes. Due to the rerouting of traffic, other border crossings may also experience increased congestion.

When might the situation be most challenging?

It may be most critical when pilgrims return from Uman after Rosh Hashanah.

What should group organizers do?

Notify the Polish side in advance of the number of people, routes, airports, and border crossings.