The border between Serbia and Croatia stretches for 241 km from eastern Croatia to its neighboring country, Serbia. The following article gives you an overview of the applicable border controls and entry requirements, possible border crossings, as well as the toll regulations (vignette requirements and distance-based tolls) for Croatia and Serbia. Everything you need for your next dream trip!
Border controls are in place between Croatia and Serbia because Serbia, unlike Croatia, is not part of the EU. As an EU citizen, you will need your ID card or passport to enter Croatia or Serbia. Note that different regulations apply for non-EU citizens, and applying for a visa is often necessary.
Nevertheless, we recommend that you always check the current regulations before your departure, as they can change due to specific security measures.
There are a variety of border crossings between Croatia and Serbia, connecting the two countries across their national border. The most well-known border crossing is between Batrovci (Serbia) and Bajakovo (Croatia), but there are other options for crossing the border:
Although these border crossings are some of the most important connections between Croatia and Serbia, we recommend that you check the opening hours beforehand. Smaller border crossings are often only open during the day.
The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette in Croatia and if there are toll sections.
Since there is no vignette requirement in Croatia, the toll to be paid is based on the kilometers driven on the highways and the vehicle class. Therefore, when traveling to Croatia, you must pay the fees for the distance-based toll. The toll can be paid at toll stations located along the highways. Sometimes, you will receive a ticket at the start of the toll section, which you must pay when exiting the respective section. You can pay this ticket with cash, credit, or bank card. Additionally, cashless payment is possible using the Croatian Electronic Toll Collect System (ETC). However, the transponder for this system must be installed in your vehicle beforehand for toll calculation to occur.
Furthermore, a digital toll system with an e-vignette or toll box is planned for implementation by 2026, enabling barrier-free payment.
The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette in Serbia and if there are toll sections.
In Serbia, there is no vignette requirement, but a distance-based toll applies.
The distance-based toll depends on the distance driven, which can be paid at toll stations or using electronic systems. The expressways and highways are thus subject to tolls for all vehicles, and the fee depends on the vehicle type:
Payment can be made at the toll stations by taking a ticket when leaving the highway. Depending on the distance and vehicle or vehicle class, the toll may vary. You can pay at toll stations using cash, credit card, or bank card. Additionally, it is possible to pay your distance-based toll in Euros, but please note that you will receive change in the Serbian currency (Dinar).
This overview of the border crossing between Croatia and Serbia 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 makes the drive much easier.