Border Crossing Bulgaria and North Macedonia: A Comprehensive Overview

The border between Bulgaria and North Macedonia plays an important role in the traffic between the two Balkan countries. This border, which also serves as an EU external border, is politically, economically, and culturally significant. The response to political challenges and the situation in Bulgaria has significantly influenced the country's stability and development. Despite the geographical proximity, there are notable differences regarding membership in international organizations, as Bulgaria is part of the European Union, while North Macedonia is still waiting for accession. This article provides a detailed insight into the border situation, entry requirements, currency, and some particularities that travelers should be aware of.

Length and Particularities of the Border

The border between Bulgaria and North Macedonia extends over 162 kilometers and is predominantly characterized by mountainous regions. This natural barrier not only influences the number of border crossings but also their accessibility. Due to the geographical conditions, only a few border crossings are open for international traffic, which can lead to long waiting times, especially during peak hours.

One notable feature of this border is its role as an EU external border. Since Bulgaria is a member of the European Union and North Macedonia is not, strict controls and security measures are enforced at the border crossings. This applies to both passenger and goods traffic.

Border Controls and Entry Requirements

Although Bulgaria has been part of the Schengen Area since March 31, 2024, land borders with non-EU countries, including North Macedonia, remain under border control. This means that travelers wishing to cross the border must expect identity and customs checks. A valid passport or ID card is required for entry into North Macedonia, which is not part of the Schengen Area.

Citizens of the EU and EFTA states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) do not need a visa for stays of less than 90 days in North Macedonia. However, travelers should ensure that their travel documents are valid for at least six months after entering. The German Embassy provides assistance in crisis situations and offers important information and advice for Germans abroad.

Currency and Payment Methods

The official currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Travelers should ensure they have sufficient cash, especially since smaller border crossings and rural areas may not always have ATMs or the possibility for cashless payments. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist centers but are not universally accepted. An example of the benefits of EU membership includes the financial contributions made by the countries within the EU budget, which benefit all member states and strengthen the internal market.

It is important to note that at the border crossings, there is usually no opportunity to exchange larger amounts of money. If you need to exchange Bulgarian Lev (BGN) for Denar for the trip from Bulgaria to North Macedonia, it is advisable to do this in Bulgaria beforehand.

General Information about North Macedonia

North Macedonia is a landlocked country on the Balkan Peninsula and has been independent since 1991. The Republic is governed as a parliamentary democracy. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister runs the government. Currently, North Macedonia is governed by Prime Minister Dimitar Kovačevski, who has been in office since January 2022.

The country has been striving for EU membership for several years and received candidate status in 2005. However, negotiations have not yet been completed due to various political and historical differences with neighboring countries, particularly Greece, as well as internal reforms. The official languages are Macedonian and Albanian. The capital is Skopje.

Toll and Payment Methods at the Border

Travelers entering North Macedonia should be aware that toll fees are charged on the highways. The toll can be paid in Macedonian Denar in cash or with a credit card at toll stations. It is advisable to check the exact fees beforehand to ensure you have enough cash or an appropriate payment method.

Currently, there is no digital vignette in North Macedonia. The toll is charged based on the distance traveled, with fees varying depending on the vehicle type. In Bulgaria, however, there is a digital vignette, and it is advisable to register it before the trip.

The Main Border Crossings between Bulgaria and North Macedonia

There are several border crossings between Bulgaria and North Macedonia, with the following being the most significant:

• Gjueschewo-Deve Bair: This crossing connects Gjueschewo in Bulgaria with Kriva Palanka in North Macedonia. It is one of the busiest border crossings, especially for traffic between Sofia and Skopje, as it provides a direct link between the capitals of the two countries.
• Logodasch-Delčevo: This border crossing is located between Blagoevgrad in Bulgaria and Delčevo in North Macedonia. It is especially important for travelers from southwestern Bulgaria and offers a less busy, but scenic route.

Particularities at the Border Crossing

• EU External Border: As the border between an EU member (Bulgaria) and a non-EU country (North Macedonia), this line is one of the external borders of the European Union. Therefore, controls are stricter to prevent illegal border crossing.
• Schengen Controls: Despite Bulgaria's membership in the Schengen Area, border controls are still required at the land borders with North Macedonia. This means travelers can expect waiting times and extensive security checks.
• Traffic Volume: Especially during the summer months and holiday periods, there may be long queues at the border crossings. Therefore, travelers should avoid peak times or prepare for longer waiting periods.
• Rail Connection: By the end of the decade, a new railway line from Kumanovo to the Bulgarian border will be completed, which is expected to significantly improve goods and passenger traffic between the two countries. This could help alleviate border traffic and provide faster connections in the future.
• Criminal Consequences: Attempts to cross the border illegally, such as hiding people in vehicles, will lead to severe criminal consequences, including the confiscation of the vehicle.

Digital Vignette: An Advantage with No Waiting Time

While North Macedonia does not yet offer a digital vignette, Bulgaria has been providing this service for several years. The digital vignette can be purchased online and is valid immediately after purchase. This saves travelers time at sales points and allows for quick and easy travel. Especially for travelers heading from North Macedonia to Bulgaria, the digital vignette is a convenient solution to continue their journey without delay and prepare for border checks.

This comprehensive overview shows that crossing the border between Bulgaria and North Macedonia should be well-prepared. With the right information and preparations, travelers can make their journey smoothly and safely.

Would you like to plan your border crossing directly with this information? Then register your digital vignette here:

Julia und Alexander Nastasi

Wir sind Julia und Alexander, professionelle Texter mit über 20 Jahren Erfahrung. Wir lieben es, mit unseren 2 Kindern andere Länder, aber auch die nähere Umgebung zu erkunden und diese Erlebnisse mit anderen zu teilen.