universal credit hospital travel expenses

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Hospital and benefits - Help with the cost of travel to hospital

When you or someone in your family go into or come out of hospital, the benefits you get may change.

• Help with the cost of travel to hospital

If you have to visit hospital to go to outpatient appointments or have treatment, you may be able to get help with your travel costs. If you need to have a friend or family member come with you to appointments, you might be able to get help with their travel costs too.

You can use the NHS website’s checking service to see if you can get help with your travel costs.

If you can get help with your travel costs, you will need to apply to your hospital’s scheme.

• https://www.turn2us.org.uk/get-support/information-for-your-situation/hospital-and-benefits/help-with-the-cost-of-travel-to-hospital

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Help with travel costs and ULEZ

If you're referred to hospital or other NHS premises for specialist NHS treatment or diagnostic tests by a doctor, dentist or another primary care health professional, you may be able to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS).

Who can claim for help with travel costs?

To qualify for help with travel costs under the HTCS, you must meet 3 conditions:

• At the time of your appointment, you or your partner (including civil partners) must receive one of the qualifying benefits or allowances listed on this page, or meet the eligibility criteria for the  NHS Low Income Scheme .
• You must have a referral from a healthcare professional to a specialist or a hospital for further NHS treatment or tests (often referred to as secondary care).
• Your appointment must be on a separate visit to when the referral was made. This applies whether your treatment is provided at a different location (hospital or clinic) or on the same premises as where the GP or another health professional issued the referral.

What are the qualifying benefits and allowances?

You can claim help with travel costs if you or your partner (including civil partner) receive any of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Working Tax Credit (WTC) with Child Tax Credit (CTC)
• WTC with a disability element or a severe disability element
• CTC but you're not eligible for WTC
• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• you receive  Universal Credit  and meet the criteria

You can also claim for help with travel costs if:

• you're named on, or entitled to, an NHS tax credit exemption certificate (if you do not have a certificate, you can show your award notice) – you qualify if you get child tax credits, working tax credits with a disability element (or both), and have income for tax credit purposes of £15,276 or less
• you have a low income and are named on certificate HC2 (full help) or HC3 (limited help) – to apply for this certificate, you should complete the  HC1 form: claim for help with health costs (PDF, 218kb) , which is available from your local hospital, Jobcentre Plus offices or the NHS print contract order line on 0300 123 0849

Patients who are not in receipt of a qualifying benefit, but are on a low income, and whose savings are £16,000 or less (or £23,250 or less if in a care home, or £24,000 or less if residents in Wales) may be eligible for assistance with their NHS travel expenses.

Find out more about the  NHS Low Income Scheme .

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge

The Trust is within the expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). This means if your vehicle does not meet the ULEZ emissions standards, you will need to pay a daily charge to drive within the ULEZ.

You can find out more, including whether your vehicle meets ULEZ standards,  on the TfL website .

As an NHS patient, you may be able to claim a reimbursement for the ULEZ charge if you are clinically assessed as unable to travel to and from an appointment on public transport  and :

• Have a compromised immune system, or
• Require regular therapy or assessments, or
• Need regular surgical intervention.

If you believe that you meet the above criteria, mention this at the reception desk when you book in for your appointment.

If you use an automated check in for your appointment, please mention it to the clinician at the start of your appointment.

They will then carry out your assessment using our ULEZ patient claim form . Printed copies of this form will also be available.

Find out more about ULEZ claims

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Hospital Travel Costs Scheme

You may get financial help from the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme if you're on a low income, need Health Service treatment at a hospital, Health Service centre or private clinic and have been under the care of a consultant.

Who can claim

You can claim hospital travel costs if you, or those you depend on, get at least one of the following:

• Income Support
• Jobseeker's Allowance (income-based)
• Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
• Guarantee Pension Credit

Depending on your income level you may also qualify for the scheme if you get one of the following:

• Child Tax Credit (with or without Working Tax Credit)
• Working Tax Credit with the disability element or severe disability element

Use the tax credit calculator to check if your income is too high for tax credits and work out what money you could get. There is no set limit for income because it depends on your circumstances and those of your partner.

• Tax credits calculator

If an adult or dependant child has to travel to your treatment with you for medical reasons, you can claim their travel costs too.

Help with health and travel costs

If you are claiming Universal Credit you may be able to get help with health and travel costs for you, your partner or your children. You may be able to get help with the cost of:

• dental treatment
• eye sight tests
• glasses or contact lenses
• travel for treatment on referral by a doctor or dentist

To find out if  you can get this help you will need to make a claim using  Health Costs Form HC1 . Once you have completed this form you can post it or hand it into your local  Jobs & Benefits office .

More information is available at  Help with health costs

If a member of your family receives Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance (income-based) or Employment and Support Allowance (income-related) you will have to claim help from the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme. For Pension Credit Guarantee Credit the entitlement is automatic regardless of who in the household receives the benefit.

If you're on a low income but don't get any of these benefits or allowances, you may still claim travel costs through the Health Service Low Income Support Scheme.

How much you'll get

If you're on a relevant benefit or allowances you get back the full travel costs by using the cheapest form of public transport available, including any concessions or promotions.

This applies to however you travel. For example, if you use a private car you can claim for petrol instead (and car parking charges where unavoidable) up to the cost of the same journey by public transport.

The hospital should tell you the mileage rate for petrol costs for private transport.

If public transport is unavailable or impractical (perhaps you can't get to your appointment on time or your mobility is restricted), you'll need to contact the hospital well ahead of your appointment. They will need to check your new travel arrangements are allowed.

If you're on the Health Service Low Income Support Scheme you may get back all or some of your travel costs depending on which certificate you've been given.

How to claim

You can claim at the hospital or clinic at the time of your appointment. You'll be paid back immediately in cash, when you show any of the following:

• proof of a qualifying benefit (such as an award notice)
• a tax credit exemption certificate (you'll get this automatically if you qualify)
• a certificate showing you qualify for the Health Service Low Income Support Scheme

Backdated claims

You can claim help with travel costs up to three months after your appointment if you can prove you were eligible to claim at the time. To do this, fill in a refund claim form HC5, which you can get from Health Service hospitals and  Jobs and Benefits offices .

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• Health and social care
• National Health Service

Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme: Instructions And Guidance For The NHS

Updated instructions and guidance for the NHS following amends to regulations in April 2010.

Applies to England

PDF , 283 KB , 43 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Regulations governing the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme were amended on 7th April 2010. This guidance document has been updated to reflect these amendments, and also includes changes to reimbursement of the London Congestion Charge.

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Hospital Travel Costs

You may be entitled to help with necessary travel costs to and from hospital if you receive NHS treatment under the care of a consultant and have a low income or receive certain benefits or credits. 

For more details download the NHS Scotland leaflet HCS1  – A quick guide to help with health costs. Or you can call the NHS Helpline on 0800 224488 (Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 6.00pm).

For help to plan your travel to the hospital please call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit:  www.travelinescotland.com

Travel Costs

Patients can claim their travel costs if they receive, Income support, Universal Credit, Income related Employment & Support Allowance, Income based Jobseekers Allowance, Guaranteed Pension Credit, named on a valid NHS Tax Credit Exemption Certificate, named on a valid NHS Exemption Certificate (HC2) or Asylum Registration Card.

Claiming travel costs

• Patients must bring proof of entitlement dated within 3 months of the appointment, (or most recent appropriate letter)
• The tickets for all your journeys will be required as evidence
• We can reimburse a mileage rate for patients using their car
• In some cases the travelling costs of an escort can be claimed
• We will not reimburse taxi fares
• Only the cheapest form of transport can be paid
• All patients travelling from the Highlands & Islands are entitled to claim some or all of their travel costs.

Further information

• If you are an inpatients , please ask your nurse for further information
• If you are an outpatients , please ask staff for further information or directions to the cash office.

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Help with hospital travel costs

Information alert.

If you need a large print, audio, braille, easy-read, age-friendly or translated copy of this leaflet, email the patient information team at  uclh. patientinformation @nhs.net . We will do our best to meet your needs.

If you have been referred for NHS treatment by your doctor or dentist, and you are on a low income or receive benefits, you may be eligible for help with the cost of travelling from your home address to your appointments.

This leaflet provides information regarding the support which is available.  It explains who is eligible for support and what you need to do to claim your money back.

Am I entitled to claim travel expenses? 

You are entitled to claim travel expenses if you are in receipt of one of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• Pension Guaranteed Credit
• Income Based Job Seekers Allowance
• Income Based Employment and Support Allowance
• NHS Working Tax Credit Exemption Certificate 
• NHS Child Tax Credit Exemption Certificate 
• Certificate for Low Income – HC2 or HC3
• Universal Credit.

Patients must ensure that the exemption certificate is “in date” for the appointment date/s which are being claimed. The guidance is the certificate and/or award notice must be dated within a 12-month period of the appointment. 

Those patients who are in receipt of Universal Credit must present a copy of your Universal Credit award notice to prove your entitlement. You will need to have met the eligibility criteria in the last completed Universal Credit assessment period before your travel costs arose.

What documentation do I need to claim? 

To claim travelling expenses you must have the following documents:

• attendance slip, this must be collected from the ward/clinic reception area
• proof of entitlement
• proof of travel costs e.g. bus, tube, and train tickets.

All travel costs will be calculated based on the most cost-effective form of transport from your home address to the hospital.  

If you have travelled by car, petrol costs are calculated on a “pence per mile” rate and again, this is based on the distance between your home address and the hospital.

Travel costs paid by contactless payment or Oyster Card can be reimbursed where a list of journeys made is obtained from the TfL website. You can register your contactless payment card or Oyster card on the TfL website to enable you to obtain the travel details record. Claims are accepted up to three months after the appointment date.

Can I claim for my escort? 

The travelling cost for an escort will only be reimbursed if it is required on medical grounds.  The consultant or doctor must confirm on the Attendance Slip that the escort was medically necessary for your visit.

If you have a letter from your consultant or GP stating that you are medically unfit to travel alone, please bring a copy of this letter. This letter must be produced each time you claim and is valid for six months from the date of issue.

The hospital is unable to reimburse travel expenses for visitors to patients.

How can I make my claim?

You can make a claim by visiting the Cashier’s Office in person at the following locations:

National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery   Address:                 Ground Floor, 60 Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3HR Opening times:        09:00 to 16:00

University College Hospital at Westmoreland Street Hospital  Address:                 Ground Floor, 16–18 Westmoreland Street, London W1G 8PH  Opening times:       09:00 to 16:30

The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine Address:                 Ground Floor, 60 Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3HR  Opening times:        09:00 to 16:00   University College Hospital   This office is not open. Completed travel claims can be left at the Reception of the Atrium where they will be collected, processed, and paid electronically directly into the bank.

Can I make a claim by post or by email? 

To make a claim by post or by email you need the following documents:

• Proof of attendance – attendance slip 
• Copy of your proof of entitlement 
• Proof of travel – tickets etc. 
• Postal claim form. 

If you are sending the claim by post, please send to the Cashier’s Office at the hospital where the appointment took place.

If you are making the claim by email, please use the following email addresses:

Appointments at National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine: [email protected]

Appointments at all other hospitals: [email protected]

Claims will be checked, processed and the payment will be issued by bank transfer. To facilitate this, we will ask for the name of the bank, account name, sort code and account number for the payee.   If I don’t receive any of these qualifying benefits, what help is available? <H2> If you have a low income, you may be able to get help under the low-income scheme . This is a means-tested scheme where you receive help with healthcare costs depending on your household income and outgoings. 

How do I apply for help through the low-income scheme?

Send a completed HC1 form to the NHS Business Service Authority. The application will be assessed and if you qualify for help, the NHS Business Services Authority will send a certificate as confirmation. A HC2 certificate will entitle you to full help and a HC3 certificate for partial help. The HC1 form and further information is available by following this link: NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Can I apply for the low-income scheme if I have already paid my travel fares?

Yes, you have up to three months from the date you have travelled to make a claim. Complete the refund claim form HC5. Forms are available by following this link: NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)   The advice line contact details for the NHS Business Services Authority is 0300 3301 343. An information booklet is also available (HC11), which can be downloaded from HC11 (V22) 01.2024.pdf (nhsbsa.nhs.uk) . Further information is also available at: NHS Help with Health Costs | NHSBSA

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Help with health costs (HCS1): information booklet - August 2021

Information booklet (HCS1) providing advice on what help a person may be entitled to for NHS charges.

Travel Costs (to hospital for NHS treatment)

You can get help with necessary travel costs (including travel costs for your dependent children) if you:

• Income Support;
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance ( ESA ) paid on its own or with contribution-based ESA :
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance ( JSA ) paid on its own or with contribution-based JSA ;
• Universal Credit;
• and had no earnings or net earnings (take-home pay) of £435 or less during the most recent assessment period; or
• which includes an element for a child and/or limited capability for work or limited capability for work related activity, and had no earnings (take-home pay) or net earnings of £935 or less during the most recent assessment period;
• are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate;
• are named on a valid HC2 certificate for full help under the NHS Low Income Scheme;
• are a war pensioner and the hospital treatment is for your pensionable disablement.

Note: contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance or contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance on their own do not entitle you to help with travel costs.

• For children under 16 and those aged 16 to 18.

Partial help:

• if you are named on a valid HC3 certificate you might get some help with travel costs.

Email: [email protected]

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Help with travel costs

Eligibility.

You are entitled to claim for travel costs for NHS appointments or treatment if you receive any of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• Guaranteed Pension Credit
• Tax Credits with an exemption certificate
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Low Income Scheme HC2 or HC3 certificates
• Universal Credit and meet the criteria

Travel costs for visiting other people in hospital cannot be paid.

How to claim

Expenses can be claimed from:

• Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham – Cashier’s Office along the outpatients corridor on Level 0
• Heartlands Hospital – main reception at the main entrance
• Good Hope Hospital – reception area at the Treatment Centre
• Solihull Hospital – Cashier's Office near the main reception

Payment cannot be made without the relevant documentation:

• proof of appointment
• proof you are in receipt of an eligible benefit
• bus, train or car park tickets

Patients travelling on public transport will be reimbursed for the cheapest form of public transport (including any promotional or concessionary fares). Patients travelling by private car may claim mileage allowance and car parking charges or equivalent public transport costs (whichever is lower).

Taxi fares cannot be paid unless there is no other way you can travel for all or part of the journey or if your consultant agrees in writing that you cannot travel by public transport because of your medical condition.

If your consultant considers it a medical necessity for an escort to accompany you, the escort’s travel costs will be paid on the basis of your eligibility and not that of the escort. A letter from your consultant or GP will be required.

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Last reviewed: 20 March 2024

• Staff extranet
• Help with travel costs

If you are receiving benefits you may be entitled to help with travel costs if you are referred for NHS specialist treatment or diagnostic tests.

Who is eligible for help with travel costs?

Patients may be eligible for help with travel costs if you receive any of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• Universal Credit and meet the criteria
• You’re named on, or entitled to, an NHS tax credit exemption certificate (if you do not have a certificate, you can show your award notice) – you qualify if you get child tax credits, working tax credits with a disability element (or both), and have income for tax credit purposes of £15,276 or less.
• You have a low income and are named on certificate HC2 (full help) or HC3 (limited help). You can apply for these certificates through the NHS Low Income Scheme.

What is needed?

You will need a travel expense claim form which will be completed by a member staff at the service you have attended. If you are in receipt of any of the benefits listed above please provide original documentation for the current year. If you are receiving Universal Credit please bring the full document including the information that states “your take home pay for this Universal Credit period is £…”.

How to get help with travel costs

If you receive treatment under the care of a consultant, or through a referral by a doctor or dentist, usually an NHS hospital will give you your refund when you go for treatment and once you have provided the documentation listed above you can claim at the cashiers office. If this is not possible you can complete a  HC5(T) refund claim form  this is a postal claim process.

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Get help with NHS travel costs

Find out whether you are entitled to help with NHS travel costs to see a consultant.

• Get help with the cost of living and
• Help with health costs (Sub-topic)

Help with travel costs

If you need to travel to receive NHS treatment under the care of a consultant, you may be entitled to help with necessary travel costs.

You may be eligible for help if:

• you are getting certain benefits
• you have a low income 
• you are 16 or over but under 20 and are counted as a dependant of someone getting certain benefits
• you are 16 or over and not a dependant of a person who gets benefits or credits. In this case you can make your own claim, even if you live with your parents. Read  Low Income Scheme

If the patient is a child under 16, it is their parent's income that counts. 

If you are not sure what travel costs you can get help with, ask the hospital before you travel.

You will be expected to travel by the cheapest means of transport which is reasonable for you to use.

If in the opinion of your consultant, you need someone to travel with you, your companion's travel costs are added to your travel costs. It will be your income that counts.

Claim a refund for travel costs to and from hospital for NHS treatment

Usually, an NHS hospital will give you your refund when you go for treatment. If this is not possible complete the  HC5W(T) refund claim form . The form tells you what to do.

Get help with the cost of travelling to NHS treatment abroad

You may be able to get help with the cost of travel from home to the international rail terminal, port or airport where you leave Great Britain (GB). The arrangements are the same as if you were travelling from home to hospital treatment.

Regardless of your income, you can get help with the cost of return travel from the point where you leave GB to where you are going to be treated. Your method (e.g. air or rail) and cost of travel must be agreed  before  you travel. You should ask the person arranging your treatment about this. If a companion is medically necessary, you should ask about help with their travel costs. 

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Help with health costs for people getting Universal Credit

If you receive Universal Credit, you may also qualify for help with health costs .

Find out about Universal Credit from GOV.UK .

Eligibility criteria

You qualify for help with health costs if, on the date you claim, you either:

• receive Universal Credit and either had no earnings or had net earnings of £435 or less in your last Universal Credit assessment period
• receive Universal Credit, which includes an element for a child, or you (or your partner) had limited capability for work (LCW) or limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA), and you either had no earnings or net earnings of £935 or less in your last Universal Credit assessment period

If you're part of a couple, the net earnings threshold applies to your combined net earnings.

You should present a copy of your Universal Credit award notice to prove your entitlement. You'll need to have met the eligibility criteria in the last completed Universal Credit assessment period before your health costs arose. The NHS Business Services Authority provides an online eligibility checker .

Visit the GOV.UK website for more information about the Universal Credit assessment period .

Not all help with health costs claim forms have a tick box for Universal Credit. If that's the case, you should tick the box for income-based Jobseeker's Allowance instead.

Find out more about what you should do before making a health claim

Unsure if you meet the eligibility criteria?

You should pay for any health costs if you're unsure whether you meet the eligibility criteria. You can claim a refund once you're able to confirm your entitlement.

This might be the case because:

• your Universal Credit claim is still being assessed
• you're waiting for a decision about your Universal Credit claim that might change the threshold that applies to you
• you're uncertain whether your earnings are within the threshold

You need to have met the eligibility criteria either in the Universal Credit period before you paid, or in the same assessment period in which you paid, to qualify for a refund.

Make sure you ask for and keep receipts. If you pay for a prescription, you must get a receipt and refund form (FP57) at the time you pay, as you will not be able to get one later.

Follow the NHS Business Services Authority (BSA) on Facebook or Twitter for the latest NHS BSA updates and answers to your questions about help with health costs.

Understand [ edit ]

Founded in 1716 as a fortress on the Imperial Russia's expanding southern frontier, by 1850s Omsk grew to become the capital of Western Siberia and parts of Central Asia . The construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway in the late 1890s brought a rapid development boom, culminating in an extravagant 1910s World Fair, around the time of which Omsk acquired much of its neoclassical architectural heritage. Largely due to its strategic importance as the gateway to Siberia and the Russian Far East , Admiral Kolchak of the anti-Soviet White Army chose Omsk as his base and "capital of Russia" in 1918–1919.

Today, Omsk is Russia's seventh largest city with a population of over 1.5 million. An Omsk visit is one of the highlights of a trip to Siberia for the city's attractive and bustling 19th century center, and its numerous cultural opportunities. Literature lovers will find a special interest in Omsk, as it was Dostoevsky's home during the majority of his exile from Saint Petersburg .

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

When taking a taxi from the airport, be sure to negotiate the price in advance and take a legal taxi.

Get around [ edit ]

By foot [ edit ]

The city center around Lyubinsky prospekt is easily walkable and is best explored on foot. In autumn 2017 Lenin St south of the River Om is being dug up and is difficult to walk along, but businesses there and the cathedral remain open.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis are plentiful and there are several taxi companies operating in Omsk.

See [ edit ]

The historical part of town is centered on Lyubinsky prospekt, near the confluence of the Om and Irtysh rivers. It is lined with century-old buildings of former merchant salons, residences, and larger commercial, government and religious establishments. The area now has some of the poshest shopping and the best nightlife in the city.

Ulica Krasnyh Zor' (aka Nikol'skij prospekt) leads from the Cossacks' cathedral to a few blocks of historical carved-wood houses. This street can give an idea what Omsk and Siberia used to be like for centuries before industrialization. Unfortunately, these houses are not yet protected as cultural heritage landmarks and may eventually be demolished.

Religious buildings [ edit ]

• St. Nicholas Cossack Cathedral , ul. Lenina, 27 , ☏ +7 3812-315748 . Built in 1843, it is one of the oldest churches in Siberia. During communist times, it was used as a cinema and concert hall.  
• Dormition Cathedral (Uspenskij sobor) , ul. Internacional'naja, 12 , ☏ +7 3812249065 . Built in the 1890s, it is one of the largest churches in Siberia.  

Buy [ edit ]

Omsk is rich in shopping. There is a big difference between the rich and the poor in the city, and this is visible in its shopping malls. While there are shops with extremely cheap goods, there are also modern, upscale malls where every shop is very expensive; a simple shirt at one of these stores could be £100, for example, and a handbag £200. Nevertheless, Omsk offers some great shops with lots of goods.

Nightclubs [ edit ]

• Angar Kemerovo st., 1/3  8 381 290-57-77
• [dead link] Zanzibar Nochnoy Klub , ul. Lukashevicha, 10В , ☏ +7 381 278-11-51 .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Dangerous areas of the city are Neftyaniki (town of oilmen), Amurskiy posyolok (Amur settlement), Port Arthur, Staryi Kirovsk (Old Kirovsk), and the area of the Omsk tire plant.

Connect [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

Omsk is a convenient hub for several regional attractions. Distances are large and locals will consider a city 700km away to be 'nearby'. However, trains are reliable.

• Tobolsk and Tomsk are the oldest cities of Siberia. Because the main transportation arteries originally bypassed them, the towns stayed small, avoiding the typical Soviet development, and retaining their unique picturesque characters. They are reachable by overnight train, or, in the case of Tobolsk , by speed jet boat along the Irtysh River (10-12 hours). Irregular boats also operate to Khanty-Mansiysk and Salekhard , within the Arctic Circle , a 2783 km journey taking six days (see timetable ). This is the best way to see the West Siberian terrain, grand rivers, and rural lifestyle. For some towns, this boat is the only access to the outside world.
• Barnaul (16 hours by train or a 1½ hour flight) is the gateway to the Altai mountains and national parks.
• Kazakhstan is accessible by train - Petropavlovsk (4 hours), Astana (12 hours), or bus - Pavlodar (8 hours).

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Omsk, founded in 1716, is a large industrial, educational and cultural center with a population of over one million. In the 50-s years of the 20th century, Omsk became an important oil-processing city. Omsk is a typical modern city with wide thoroughfares, numerous bridges, and high sky-scrapers. In the old part of the city, one can see examples of architecture of previous centuries including the Tobolskie Gate leading to the city fortress, the oldest constructions in Omsk.

In the 19th century, the convicts had to pass through this gate daily when they went to the timber cutting works. Among the convicts was famous Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky.

The palace of a general-governor is another interesting sight of Omsk. This old building witnessed many historical events.

• Ulan-Ude read
• Novosibirsk read
• Irkutsk read

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Cost of living and prices in Omsk, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇷🇺 Updated Jul 2023

Omsk is a vibrant city in Russia located in Eastern Europe. With its coordinates of 54.99135 latitude and 73.36452 longitude, it is situated at an elevation of 90 meters above sea level. Omsk has a population of 1,178,391 people, making it one of the largest cities in Russia.

Omsk is known for its rich culture, beautiful architecture, and affordable cost of living. Residents and visitors alike enjoy a wide variety of activities, including museums, theaters, parks, cafes, and restaurants. The city is also home to several prestigious universities and research institutes, making it a hub for education and innovation. Whether you're looking for a lively city atmosphere or a peaceful place to call home, Omsk has something for everyone.

If you're considering moving to or visiting Omsk, it's worth noting that the cost of living is significantly lower than other major cities in Europe. Housing, transportation, and food are all relatively affordable, allowing you to enjoy a high standard of living without breaking the bank. Overall, Omsk is a welcoming and vibrant city with plenty to offer residents and visitors alike.

Cost of Living Estimate in Omsk

Total cost of living in Omsk for two person with average consumption for one month will be 627.57 USD , no rent price included. Click here to calculate cost-of-living estimate in Omsk

You can calculate cost of living in Omsk by changing quantity using input near each good or service. Resulting total will appear in a floating box in the bottom of your screen.

Restaurants prices

Omsk, Russia has a variety of restaurants and eating options for travelers to try. Russian cuisine is widely available, and traditional dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and stroganoff can be found in many restaurants. If you're looking for something different, there are also options for Italian, Japanese, and other international cuisines. Many restaurants also offer live music or entertainment, making for a lively dining experience.

If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, street food stalls and food markets are also a great option. You can find vendors selling traditional Russian snacks like blini and pirozhki, as well as kebabs and other grilled meats. Don't forget to try the local beer and vodka while you're there – many restaurants and bars have an impressive selection. No matter what you're in the mood for, Omsk has plenty of delicious options to satisfy your cravings.

Markets prices

Market prices in Omsk, Russia can vary greatly depending on the season and availability of the product. In general, fruits and vegetables that are locally grown tend to be much cheaper than imported varieties. Meat prices can also fluctuate, with some cuts being more expensive than others, and fish prices tend to be higher than meat prices. The cost of household goods and electronics is similar to prices in other cities in Russia.

When it comes to clothing and fashion items, Omsk has a range of options at different price points. High-end designer brands can be found in upscale shopping centers, while low-cost options can be found in markets and street vendors. It is also possible to find handmade traditional clothing and accessories for a unique and authentic souvenir. Overall, the cost of living in Omsk is lower than in larger cities like Moscow or St. Petersburg, making it a more affordable destination for travelers.

Transportation prices

Omsk, Russia offers several transportation options for visitors to get around the city. One popular mode of transportation is the local bus system, which is affordable and convenient. Buses in Omsk run regularly throughout the day and can take you to many different parts of the city.

Another exciting way to get around Omsk is by taking a ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway. The railway spans over 9,000 kilometers and connects Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through Omsk along the way. Riding the Trans-Siberian Railway is a unique experience that offers stunning views of the Siberian landscape and the opportunity to meet locals and other travelers alike.

Utilities Per Month prices

Traveling to a new place comes with many concerns, and one of the most important factors to consider is utilities cost. Omsk, a city in Russia, is known to have a moderate cost of living. The cost of utilities in Omsk is relatively affordable, making it a favorable destination for tourists. Visitors to Omsk can have access to reliable and affordable essential services such as electricity, water, gas, internet, and waste disposal services. The utility cost in Omsk is determined by the size of the apartment, location, and the season.

It's essential to note that during winter, utility costs tend to be higher due to the cold weather experienced in Omsk. Many residential buildings in Omsk have central heating systems. However, in some cases, individuals have to install their own electric heaters to supplement the heating systems provided. Therefore, it's important to take into consideration the season and the location of the apartment when looking for a place to stay in Omsk. Overall, utility costs in Omsk are reasonable, and travelers to the city don't have to worry about excessive utility bills impacting their travel expenses.

Sports And Leisure prices

Omsk may not be the first city that comes to mind when it comes to sports and leisure, but the city actually has a lot to offer. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are several parks and green spaces where you can go for a jog, have a picnic, or simply take a leisurely stroll. One of the most popular parks is Park of the 30th Anniversary of Victory, which is home to several monuments and a large lake where you can rent boats. There are also several sports complexes where you can play basketball, football, or volleyball.

If you're interested in indoor activities, Omsk has a variety of options for you as well. The city has several gyms and fitness centers where you can work out, take yoga classes, or try pilates. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there are several cinemas and theaters where you can catch the latest movies or watch a play. Additionally, Omsk has a thriving nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs where you can dance the night away. No matter what your interests are, you'll definitely find something fun to do in Omsk.

Salaries And Financing prices

Omsk, Russia is a bustling city with a wide range of job opportunities. For those interested in relocating or working in Omsk, it's important to know what salaries to expect. Generally speaking, salaries in Omsk are lower than in other major Russian cities like Moscow or Saint Petersburg. However, the cost of living in Omsk is also lower, making it possible to live comfortably on a lower income.

When it comes to financing, Omsk offers a range of services for locals and visitors alike. Banks and ATMs are readily available throughout the city, making it easy to access cash if needed. It's important to note that some businesses in Omsk may only accept cash, so it's a good idea to always have some on hand. For those looking to exchange currency, there are several foreign exchange bureaus located throughout the city that offer competitive rates. Overall, Omsk offers a reliable and convenient banking system for those living or traveling in the area.

Childcare prices

Childcare prices in Omsk, Russia vary depending on the type of facility. Schools tend to be more expensive than Kindergartens as they offer a more comprehensive education program. However, both schools and Kindergartens strive to provide high-quality care and education for the children under their watch.

The majority of Kindergartens in Omsk are state-owned and therefore cheaper than private schools. However, private Kindergartens often offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling and curriculum options. Overall, Childcare prices in Omsk can be seen as affordable compared to other cities in Russia, allowing parents to provide their children with excellent care and education without breaking the bank.

Clothing And Shoes prices

When it comes to clothing and shoe shopping in Omsk, you'll find a range of prices that cater to both budget-conscious shoppers and those looking for high-end designer brands. The city has several malls and shopping centers where you can find a variety of stores selling everything from casual wear to formal attire. In addition to popular chain stores, you'll also find small boutiques and local brands that offer unique styles and designs.

If you're looking for shoes, Omsk has plenty of options available to suit a range of tastes and budgets. You can find everything from basic sneakers to high-end leather shoes, and many stores specialize in particular styles or brands. In addition to traditional brick-and-mortar shops, you can also find online retailers that offer a wide selection of footwear. Whether you're in the market for running shoes or dress shoes, you're sure to find something to suit your needs in Omsk.

Rent Per Month prices

If you're planning a short stay in Omsk, Russia, the city has a variety of rental options to choose from. Some of the most popular accommodations include apartments, guesthouses, and hotels. The prices for these rental options will vary depending on the location and amenities offered. In general, apartments are a more affordable option compared to staying in a hotel, but they may not offer the same level of service and comfort. Guesthouses are often more budget-friendly and can provide a more intimate and personalized experience than a large hotel chain. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of options for short term stays in Omsk.

If you're looking for a truly unique stay, consider exploring some of the unconventional options available in Omsk. Some rental services offer the opportunity to stay in traditional Russian homes, giving you a taste of local culture and the chance to experience life like a local. Another option is a yurt – a portable, round tent that is traditionally used by nomads in Central Asia. Yurts offer a cozy and comfortable stay, and many come equipped with modern amenities such as heating and electricity. Whether you choose a traditional apartment or an unconventional rental option, there are plenty of ways to make your stay in Omsk a memorable one.

Buy Apartment prices

Omsk, Russia is a city with a diverse range of real estate options. From spacious apartments in historic buildings to modern developments with all the amenities, there is something for everyone. Prices depend on the location, type of property, and overall demand in the market.

Buying real estate in Omsk presents a unique opportunity for those looking to invest in an up-and-coming market. With its growing economy and population, the demand for housing is on the rise. In addition, the city's central location makes it an attractive destination for business and tourism, resulting in a steady stream of potential renters and buyers. Whether you're looking for a primary residence or an investment property, Omsk is an excellent choice with a promising future.

Cost of living in the cities nearby

• Petropavl, Kazakhstan
• Kokshetau, Kazakhstan
• Pavlodar, Kazakhstan
• Ekibastuz, Kazakhstan
• Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
• Kurgan, Russia
• Tyumen, Russia
• Temirtau, Kazakhstan
• Karagandy, Kazakhstan
• Shakhtinsk, Kazakhstan

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