UZ-3000: Free trains for every Ukrainian!

In 2025, Ukrzaliznytsia announced the launch of a special social initiative, “UZ-3000”, which provides citizens of Ukraine with free railway travel up to 3,000 kilometers. This program is a response to state funding of passenger transportation and is aimed at supporting the accessibility of railway travel for residents of different regions.

Main idea of the “UZ-3000” program:
The essence of the initiative is to enable every Ukrainian to use railway transport free of charge for a total distance up to 3,000 km within the country. This is equivalent to the longest existing trip round-trip (for example, Zaporizhzhia to Uzhhorod and back). Ukrzaliznytsia proposes allocating free seats mainly during periods of low demand.

Implementation mechanism and trip categories:
The program is being developed as a bonus system for passengers and will mainly operate during off-season and “low mobility season” periods when there are many vacant seats on trains. During peak periods (holidays, school vacations, mass travels), the right to free travel may be limited for demand balancing. Passengers who use the program will occupy vacant seats without creating additional pressure on carriers.

Financing and cost compensation:
The implementation of “UZ-3000” is combined with systematic compensation for the real cost of passenger transportation. The introduction of new paid services in premium classes and on international routes is intended to balance revenues to cover free trips. Additional funding comes from the state budget, as railway passenger trips are subsidized by taxpayers.

Goals and opportunities for society:
The “UZ-3000” initiative is implemented to facilitate access to rail connections and stimulate domestic tourism and mobility in Ukraine. In the context of social unity support, it allows residents of various regions to travel regardless of income level. The program also helps attract new passenger groups in the off-season, optimizing railway infrastructure utilization.

Technical aspects and expected implementation:
Ukrzaliznytsia is currently working out technical details and the operational mechanics of the program. The introduction of electronic applications and preliminary registration for ticket receipt within the “bonus limit” is planned. Specific conditions (active periods, kilometer accounting mechanism, wagon categories) will be determined additionally before the official launch.

Author: Ihor Yasko, Managing Partner of Law Firm “WINNER”, PhD
Law Firm “WINNER” possesses expertise in transport and administrative law and is ready to provide comprehensive support: from analysis and development of internal policies to dispute resolution and representation before authorities.
For all matters related to implementation, use, and protection of rights within the “UZ-3000” program, contact Law Firm “WINNER” — your assurance of the safety and efficiency of legal services.