Ukraine (UA)
EU-candidate country with a resilient tech sector, very low day-to-day costs by European standards, rich culture, and a 2026 expat experience shaped by martial law, air alerts, reconstruction, and fast-moving rules.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Ukraine.
Denominations
Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 UAH. Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 UAH and kopiyka coins.
Payment Culture
Card and contactless payments are common in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, Odesa, and larger towns, but cash is still useful during outages, in markets, for taxis outside apps, and in smaller communities.
ATM Tips
Use ATMs attached to major banks such as PrivatBank, Oschadbank, Raiffeisen, Universal/monobank partners, or Sense Bank. Decline dynamic currency conversion and keep backup cash because air alerts and blackouts can disrupt payment terminals.
Exchange Tips
Use bank branches or licensed exchange offices only. Avoid street exchange and keep receipts for large currency conversions because banks, notaries, and property sellers may request source-of-funds evidence.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents