In autumn 2026, Ukraine will once again switch to winter time. The seasonal clock change remains in force, as the law adopted by the Verkhovna Rada to abolish this practice has not yet come into effect. We look into exactly when Ukrainians need to turn their clocks and why the legislative initiative aimed at abolishing the time change has still not taken effect.
When the clocks are changed in 2026
Pursuant to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 509 of 13 May 1996, "On the Procedure for Calculating Time on the Territory of Ukraine," the switch to winter time takes place on the last Sunday of October. In 2026, that Sunday falls on 25 October. At 04:00 Kyiv time, the clock hands must be turned back by one hour, and the country will return to the time of the second time zone of Kyiv. For comparison: the switch to summer time under the current procedure takes place on the last Sunday of March.
Why the abolition law is not yet in effect
In July 2024, the Verkhovna Rada adopted, in second reading, draft law No. 4201, "On the Calculation of Time in Ukraine." The document provides for the abolition of the seasonal time change: after switching to winter time, Ukraine was supposed to stop switching to summer time. However, as of September 2026, this law has not entered into force, so the procedure established by Cabinet Resolution No. 509 continues to apply. Thus, despite the decision adopted by the Rada, the clock change in 2026 will take place as usual.
Historical context and economic effect
The clock change was originally introduced to make more rational use of daylight and to save electricity. According to expert estimates, today this economic effect has virtually disappeared due to changes in lifestyle and the structure of electricity consumption. Nevertheless, the formal mechanism of seasonal time calculation in Ukraine remains in place until the new law takes effect.
Impact on health and sleep
The switch to winter time is considered less stressful for the body than the spring clock change, but it can still affect sleep, concentration, and mood. Adaptation usually takes a few days, but in case of sleep problems it may last up to a week. On these days, it is recommended to try to go to bed and wake up at the same time and to allow yourself extra rest.
