Border crossings between Croatia and Serbia

Here is a brief overview of essential information for border crossings between Croatia and Serbia, including opening hours and documents required for crossing.

Important Border Crossings and Working Hours

  • Bajakovo (HR) – Batrovci (SRB): This is the main and largest border crossing between Croatia and Serbia on the highway. It is open 24 hours a day for all types of traffic (passenger, freight, bus). It is recommended for freight transport due to its capacity and infrastructure.
  • Tovarnik (HR) – Šid (SRB): This crossing is also open 24 hours a day and is usually less congested than Bajakovo, especially for freight traffic. A good alternative if you want to avoid the crowds on Bajakovo.
  • Ilok (HR) – Bačka Palanka (SRB): It is open 24 hours a day for passenger and freight traffic. It is often used by travelers who want to avoid major routes and crowds.
  • Erdut (HR) – Bogojevo (SRB): It is open 24 hours a day for passenger and freight traffic. This crossing is popular for local traffic and tourists visiting the Danube region.
  • Batina (HR) – Bezdan (SRB): This border crossing, located on the Danube, is also open 24 hours a day for passenger and freight traffic. It is often used by travelers traveling between Baranja and Bačka, and is a good choice for avoiding crowds at larger crossings. It is famous for its bridge over the Danube.

Important: Although all of the above crossings are open 24 hours, occasional closures or restrictions are possible due to works, technical problems or special events. It is always advisable to check the situation at the borders before traveling, especially for freight traffic.

Freight transport

For freight traffic, Bajakovo/Batrovci is the primary crossing point due to its infrastructure and capacity to process a large number of vehicles. Other crossings (Tovarnik, Ilok, Erdut) also accept freight traffic and can be a good option to avoid crowds.

Additional notes for freight transport:

  • Required documents: In addition to the standard documents for the vehicle and the driver, a consignment note (CMR), customs declaration, and other accompanying documents depending on the type of goods (e.g. phytosanitary and veterinary permits) are mandatory.
  • Waiting: Waiting times for freight traffic can be significantly longer, especially in Bajakovo, during peak season or during holidays. Follow online information on the situation at the borders.

Required documents

Whether you’re a passenger in a car or a truck driver, it’s crucial to have all the necessary documents.

  • Valid travel document: For citizens of Croatia and Serbia, these are an identity card (identity card) or passport (passport). Third-country nationals need a passport and possibly a visa, depending on their nationality.
  • Driver’s license: Valid driver’s license.
  • Vehicle Registration Permit (Vehicle Registration Permit): Vehicle registration documents.
  • Green card: Proof of international car insurance (although it is not strictly mandatory for all insurances to enter Serbia from the EU, it is recommended as proof of insurance).
  • Power of attorney: If you are driving someone else’s vehicle, you must have a power of attorney from the owner of the vehicle, translated into English or the official language of the country you are entering, certified by a notary public.
  • For children: If you are traveling with children, check the specific regulations, especially if the child is traveling without both parents or guardians (the consent of the other parent/guardian may be required).

Travel Tips

  • Check the situation at the borders: Before departure, check the situation at the desired border crossing via webcams or applications that display the waiting time.
  • Prepare documents: Have all the necessary documents ready and easily accessible to speed up the process at the border.
  • Follow traffic regulations: Obey traffic laws in both countries to avoid fines.

I hope you find this information useful for your trip! Have a nice trip!