Border crossings from Serbia to Croatia

Here is a brief overview of important information for border crossings from Serbia to Croatia, including working hours and documents required for crossing.

Important Border Crossings and Working Hours

  • Batrovci (SRB) – Bajakovo (HR): This is the main and largest border crossing between Serbia and Croatia 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.
  • Bogojevo (SRB) – Erdut (HR): This crossing is open 24 hours a day for passenger and freight traffic. It is often used by travelers traveling between Bačka and Slavonia, and is a good alternative to the main crossing if you want to avoid the crowds.
  • Bačka Palanka (SRB) – Ilok (HR): It is open 24 hours a day for passenger and freight traffic. It is often used by travelers who want to avoid the main routes and crowds, especially those traveling from southern Bačka.
  • Šid (SRB) – Tovarnik (HR): This crossing is also open 24 hours a day and is usually less congested than Batrovci, especially for freight traffic. A good alternative if you want to avoid the crowds at Batrovci.
  • Bezdan (SRB) – Batina (HR): This border crossing, located on the Danube, is also open 24 hours a day for passenger and freight traffic. It is often used by passengers traveling between Bačka and Baranja, 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, Batrovci/Bajakovo is the primary crossing point due to its infrastructure and capacity to handle a large number of vehicles. Other crossings (Bogojevo, Bačka Palanka, Šid, Bezdan) also accept freight traffic and can be a good option for avoiding traffic jams, especially if it is light freight or routes that lead directly to these crossings.

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 are mandatory, depending on the type of goods (e.g. phytosanitary and veterinary permits).
  • Waiting: Waiting times for freight traffic can be much longer, especially in Batrovci, during peak season or during holidays. Follow online information on the situation at the borders.

Required documents

Whether you are a passenger in a car or a truck driver, it is crucial that you have all the necessary documents.

  • Valid travel document: For citizens of Serbia and Croatia, this is an identity card or passport. Third-country nationals need a passport and possibly a visa, depending on their nationality.
  • Driver’s license: Valid driver’s license.
  • Traffic permit: Vehicle registration documents.
  • Green card: Proof of international car insurance (although it is not strictly mandatory for all insurances to enter Croatia from Serbia, 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 travelling with children, check the specific regulations, especially if the child is travelling without both parents or guardians (the consent of the other parent/guardian may be required).

Travel Tips

  • Check the situation at the borders: Before leaving, check the situation at the desired border crossing using webcams or apps that display the waiting time.
  • Prepare documents: Have all the necessary documents ready and easily accessible to speed up the border process.
  • Follow the rules of the road: Obey the traffic rules in both countries to avoid fines.

I hope that now all the information is complete and useful for your trip!