The border between Bulgaria and North Macedonia plays an important role for traffic between the two Balkan countries. This border, which is also an external EU border, is politically, economically, and culturally significant. The response to political challenges and the situation in Bulgaria has significantly influenced the stability and development of the country. Despite the geographical proximity, there are clear differences regarding membership in international organizations, as Bulgaria is part of the European Union, while North Macedonia is still waiting for accession.
The border between Bulgaria and North Macedonia stretches over 162 kilometers and is predominantly characterized by mountainous regions. This natural barrier affects not only 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.
A notable detail of this border is its role as an external EU border. Since Bulgaria is a member of the European Union and North Macedonia is not, there are strict controls and security measures implemented at the border crossings. This applies to both passenger and freight traffic.
Although Bulgaria has been part of the Schengen Area since March 31, 2024, land borders to non-EU countries, including North Macedonia, still undergo border controls. This means that travelers passing through the border can expect document and customs checks. A valid passport or ID card is required for entry into North Macedonia.
For EU citizens as well as citizens of EFTA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), no visa is required for stays in North Macedonia of less than 90 days. However, travelers should ensure that their travel documents are valid for at least six months after entry. The German Embassy provides support in crisis situations and offers important information and advice for Germans abroad.
The official currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Travelers should ensure they have enough cash beforehand, as ATMs or the possibility of cashless payments are not always available, especially at smaller border crossings and in rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist centers but are not widespread.
It is important to know that at the border crossings, there is usually no possibility to exchange large sums of money. Those wishing to exchange Bulgarian Lev (BGN) into Denar for their trip to North Macedonia should do so beforehand in Bulgaria.
North Macedonia is a landlocked country on the Balkan Peninsula and has been independent since 1991. The country operates as a parliamentary democracy. The president is the head of state, while the prime minister manages the government.
The country has been striving for EU membership for several years, having been granted candidate status in 2005. However, negotiations have not been completed yet due to various political and historical differences with neighboring countries, especially Greece, and ongoing internal reforms. The official languages are Macedonian and Albanian. The capital is Skopje.
There are several border crossings between Bulgaria and North Macedonia, with the following being the most significant:
The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are toll sections.
There is a vignette requirement on Bulgarian national roads. This requirement applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 tons gross weight (zGG) as well as motorhomes (regardless of their weight). Additionally, vehicles with trailers (e.g., car + trailer) exceeding the permissible total weight of 3.5 tons zGG require an additional vignette for their trailers.
Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement. Furthermore, vehicles over 3.5 tons zGG must pay a route-based toll and do not need to purchase a vignette (except for cars with trailers exceeding 3.5 tons zGG).
(Commercial) vehicles with a gross weight over 3.5 tons zGG must pay a route-based toll, i.e., the length of the route used by the vehicle is calculated. The toll amount also depends on the Euro emissions class (pollution level), the number of axles, and the type of road. The toll is paid via a pre-purchased route card (route pass), where the travel route must be specified. Alternatively, a contract with a national toll service provider can be made, which allows the toll to be recorded using an electronic device (On-Board-Unit) or a GPS tracker.
Danube crossings are considered special toll sections. Therefore, additional fees must be paid for the use of Danube crossings, regardless of whether a vignette has been purchased or a route-based toll has been paid. Possible Danube crossings are located between Romania and Bulgaria.
The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are toll sections.
Currently, North Macedonia does not have a digital vignette, but toll fees are charged.
Travelers entering North Macedonia should note that tolls are charged on highways in the form of a route-based toll, which varies depending on the vehicle class and the kilometers driven. The route-based toll applies to the highways A1, A2, and A4. The following vehicle classes should be noted:
The route-based toll can be paid at toll stations in Macedonian Denar or by credit card. It is advisable to check the exact fees beforehand to ensure sufficient cash or appropriate payment options are available.
This overview of the border crossing between Bulgaria and North Macedonia provides all the important information you need for a smooth and well-prepared journey. Whether it’s border controls, entry requirements, or toll fees – being well-informed greatly eases the trip.
