DART has warned pilgrims traveling to Uman about fraudulent schemes involving the tourist tax
The State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine has warned pilgrims planning a trip to Uman for Rosh Hashanah 2026 about the risks of fraudulent schemes related to the payment of the tourist tax.
Pilgrims are reminded that the tourist tax must be paid only through official channels—to the accounts designated by the Uman City Council. Payments made through third-party websites, private intermediaries, or at a “discounted” fixed rate may lead to problems during inspections.
After payment, it is essential to keep the receipt until the end of your stay in Uman. This receipt serves as proof that the tourist tax was paid officially.
This applies to Hasidic pilgrims who will be arriving in the city to celebrate Rosh Hashanah. In 2026, the holiday will take place under martial law, so pilgrims are advised to check in advance not only the safety regulations but also the procedure for officially paying local fees.
Tourist Tax in Uman in 2026: Official Amounts
In 2026, the tourist tax for pilgrims in Uman is:
- 432.35 UAH per person per day — for accommodation in apartments, residential buildings, rooms, cottages, and other similar facilities;
- 216.18 UAH per person per day — for stays in hotels, hostels, campgrounds, motels, dormitories, guesthouses, and other hotel-type establishments.
The tourist tax is a mandatory local fee for individuals using temporary lodging services. Payment must be confirmed by an official receipt.
Important: Simply transferring money to an unknown person or a third-party service does not guarantee that the tourist tax will be officially recorded. During an inspection, the pilgrim must provide proof of the official payment.
The official payment procedure, payment details, and full information are available in Ukrainian, English, and Hebrew at the following link: https://bit.ly/4c7vWNT
DART Warns About Third-Party Websites and Intermediaries
Separately, the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine urges pilgrims not to use offers from third-party websites or intermediaries that promise to pay the tourist tax “at a discount,” “at a fixed price,” or as part of a “package.”
DART emphasizes that such a mechanism is not provided for by the decisions of the Uman City Council.
Therefore, pilgrims should be especially cautious. If someone offers to pay the tourist tax at a lower price, without an official receipt, or “through acquaintances,” this could be a risky scheme.
The correct way is to pay only officially into the city council’s designated accounts.
Why Problems May Arise During Inspections
While in Uman, pilgrims may be asked to provide proof of payment of the tourist tax.
If a person paid through an unofficial website, a private intermediary, or without a proper receipt, problems may arise:
- the payment may not be recognized as official;
- there may be no proof of payment of the tourist tax;
- the pilgrim may have to explain the source of the payment;
- there may be difficulties during check-in or inspection;
- failure to pay the official tax may result in administrative penalties.
That is why pilgrims are advised not to take risks and not to look for “cheaper” ways to pay. The tourist tax must be paid officially.
Why You Should Keep Your Receipt or Invoice
After paying the tourist fee, pilgrims must keep the payment receipt until the end of their stay in Uman.
This can be a receipt or invoice confirming official payment. Such a document may be required during an inspection.
Pilgrims should ensure that payment was made using the official payment details and that the document contains the necessary information regarding the tourist tax.
If the receipt does not clearly state the purpose of the payment or if it is impossible to confirm that the funds were used to pay the official tourist tax, this may raise additional questions.
Where to Find Official Information
The official procedure for paying the tourist tax, payment details, and complete information are available in Ukrainian, English, and Hebrew.
Pilgrims are advised to check the current rules before their trip to avoid misunderstandings upon check-in or during their stay in Uman.
This is especially important for those planning to stay in private accommodations: apartments, rooms, houses, cottages, or other similar properties.
The main rule is simple: pay the tourist tax only through official channels—to the city council’s accounts or those of an authorized municipal enterprise. Do not give money to random intermediaries.
Safety During Rosh Hashanah in Uman
DART also reminded the public that the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends refraining from traveling to Uman due to high security risks associated with the full-scale war.
If pilgrims still decide to come, they should:
- monitor announcements from Ukrainian authorities;
- respond to air raid alerts;
- observe the curfew from 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.;
- find out in advance where the nearest shelters are;
- carry their documents with them;
- save the contact information for emergency services;
- be prepared for possible transportation delays;
- be prepared for lines at the border;
- be aware of the significant strain on urban infrastructure.
The tourism tax supports the community
The State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine emphasizes that tourism should contribute to community development.
Payment of the tourist tax helps support the local economy, infrastructure, public amenities, and Uman’s appeal to tourists.
For a city that welcomes a large number of pilgrims each year, this is an important resource for organizing services, maintaining public order, and fostering community development.
That is why the official payment of the tourist tax is not only a legal requirement but also a contribution to the city that welcomes pilgrims.
What Pilgrims Should Do Before Paying
Before paying the tourist tax, pilgrims should:
- check the official payment procedure;
- make sure the payment is made to official accounts;
- avoid using questionable websites;
- not agree to pay “at a discount”;
- do not transfer money to private intermediaries;
- confirm the amount based on the type of accommodation;
- Keep your receipt or invoice;
- keep proof of payment until the end of your stay in Uman.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the tourist tax for pilgrims in Uman in 2026?
In 2026, the tourist tax is 432.35 UAH per person per day for accommodations in private homes and 216.18 UAH per person per day for accommodations in hotels and other hotel-type establishments.
Where should the tourist tax be paid?
The tourist tax must be paid only through official channels—to the accounts designated by the Uman City Council.
Can the tourist tax be paid through intermediaries?
DART does not recommend using third-party websites or intermediaries that offer payment “at a discount” or as a single fixed amount. Such a mechanism is not provided for in the resolutions of the Uman City Council.
What happens if you pay unofficially?
Problems may arise during an inspection if a pilgrim cannot confirm that the tourist tax was paid officially. Therefore, you must keep your receipt or payment slip.
Do I need to keep the receipt after payment?
Yes. After payment, you must keep the payment document until the end of your stay in Uman.
Who is required to pay the tourist tax?
The tourist tax applies to individuals who use temporary lodging services in Uman.
Hasidic pilgrims planning a trip to Uman for Rosh Hashanah 2026 should pay close attention to the issue of the tourist tax.
DART warns: Do not use third-party websites or intermediaries that offer payment “at a discount,” “in a single lump sum,” or “without waiting in line.” Such methods may cause problems during verification.
The tourist tax must be paid only through official channels—to the accounts designated by the Uman City Council or an authorized municipal enterprise.
You must keep the receipt or invoice until the end of your stay in Uman.
Paying the tourist tax through official channels will help you avoid problems, confirm the legality of your stay, and support the development of the Uman community.