Pilgrims traveling to Uman were warned about the EES system at the Polish-Ukrainian border

Pilgrims traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah via Poland have been warned about new border control procedures at the European Union’s external borders. This is stated in a letter from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that, starting in April 2026, the Entry/Exit System (EES) has been in operation at the EU’s external borders.

This system is also in use at checkpoints along the Polish-Ukrainian border.

What the EES Means for Pilgrims

The EES system requires travelers to be registered when crossing the European Union’s external border.

According to the Polish authorities, all pilgrimage participants crossing the Polish-Ukrainian border will be registered in the system.

During initial registration, the following information is collected:

• fingerprints;
• other biometric data;
• information required for border control.

Why border crossing may take longer

Additional procedures may increase the time it takes to go through border control.

This is especially true during periods of heavy traffic, when large groups of pilgrims are simultaneously traveling to Ukraine or returning from Uman.

Therefore, Polish authorities advise against planning a tight schedule and recommend allowing extra time for border crossing.

Which border crossings may be busy

A separate factor is the situation at the “Medyka–Shehyni” border crossing, where modernization is underway.

Due to restrictions in Medyka, some bus and truck traffic is being rerouted to other border crossings, particularly Malchowice and Kroscienko. This may increase congestion there as well.

When returning from Uman, the Polish side recommends using the “Korchova” and “Budomierz” checkpoints whenever possible.

Where to Go After Uman

Poland advises pilgrims on their return:

• choose “Korczowa” whenever possible;
• choose “Budomierz” if possible;
• avoid “Medyka” if possible;
• take the EES system into account;
• plan your trip with plenty of time to spare.