The border crossing between Bulgaria and Serbia is an essential part of the transportation network between the two countries and plays a significant role for both trade and tourism.
The border between Bulgaria and Serbia stretches over a length of 318 kilometers. Historically, the population in these border regions has played an important cultural role, particularly through the influence of the Muslim population and their conversion to Islam, as well as the resistance against Hellenization. Once a symbol of the division between Eastern and Western Europe, today it has a different meaning: it marks the transition between an EU member state and a country striving for EU membership. The capital of Bulgaria is Sofia.
Since Bulgaria is part of the European Union, but Serbia has not yet joined the Schengen Area, comprehensive border controls still take place at the border with Serbia. These controls apply to both people and vehicles. Travelers must present valid travel documents and may be subject to random customs checks. Entry requirements for Serbia generally require a passport as a travel document, and some nationalities also need a visa.
Serbia's official currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD). It is advisable for travelers to carry enough Serbian Dinars, as not all border crossings accept Euro or credit cards. However, at some crossings, it is possible to pay toll fees in Euros.
The main road border crossings between Bulgaria and Serbia are:
During the holiday season and on weekends, long waiting times at border crossings can occur. The borders between Bulgaria and Serbia are EU external borders. Despite Bulgaria's membership in the Schengen Area, border controls are still in place. A new border crossing in the village of Petacinci is planned, which will be designed only for passenger traffic. This is expected to relieve the heavily used Gradina crossing, especially during the tourist season. The border region, particularly around the city of Dimitrovgrad, has a complex history of shifting territorial control between Serbia and Bulgaria, which has shaped the identity of the residents.
The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and if there are toll sections of roads.
In Bulgaria, there is a vignette requirement on national roads. This vignette requirement applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 tons total weight (GVW) as well as motorhomes (regardless of their weight). Additionally, vehicles with trailers (e.g., car + trailer) that exceed the allowable total weight of 3.5 tons GVW require an additional vignette for their trailers.
Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement. Vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons GVW must pay a toll based on the distance traveled and do not require a vignette (except for cars with trailers that exceed the weight limit of 3.5 tons GVW).
(Commercial) vehicles with a total weight over 3.5 tons GVW must pay a distance-based toll, meaning the distance traveled by the vehicle is calculated. The toll amount also depends on the Euro emission class (pollution level), the number of axles, and the type of road. The toll is paid by purchasing a route card (route pass) in advance, which specifies the travel distance. Alternatively, a contract with a national toll collection service provider can be made, whereby the toll is recorded using an electronic device (On-Board Unit) or a GPS tracker.
The Danube crossings are considered special toll routes. Thus, for using the Danube crossings, additional fees must be paid, regardless of whether a vignette or distance-based toll has already been paid. Possible Danube crossings are located between Romania and Bulgaria.
The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and if there are toll sections of roads.
In Serbia, there is no vignette requirement, but there is a distance-based toll.
The distance-based toll depends on the distance traveled, and it can be paid at toll stations or via electronic systems. Expressways and highways are thus toll-free for all vehicles, and the toll varies according to the vehicle:
Payment can be made at the toll stations by taking a ticket when leaving the highway. Depending on the route and vehicle type or class, the toll amount may vary. Payments can be made in cash or with a credit card or bank card. Additionally, it is possible to pay the toll in Euros, but keep in mind that you will receive Serbian currency (Dinars) in change.
This overview of the border crossing between Bulgaria and Serbia provides all the essential information you need for a smooth and well-prepared trip. Whether it's border controls, entry requirements, or toll fees – being well-informed makes your journey much easier.
