Border Crossing Slovakia Ukraine

The borders between Slovakia and Ukraine stretch over a length of about 97 kilometers and connect the two countries at several important points. The border crossings play a central role in the flow of goods and people between the European Union and Ukraine. Especially in recent years, the importance of this border region has increased, as it represents an important link between the east and west of Europe. The location of these crossings in the Carpathians provides a picturesque, but also challenging, backdrop.

The Length of the Border Crossings

The Slovak-Ukrainian border is a relatively short border section in Europe, yet it is strategically extremely significant. In total, there are three main crossings, each offering different requirements and possibilities for tourists and the flow of goods. These crossings extend over various distances and altitudes, as they run through the mountainous regions of the Wooded Carpathians. This can sometimes make crossing a challenge, especially during the winter months.

Important Facts About Crossing the Border

Border Controls and Entry Requirements

Yes, there are border controls between Slovakia and Ukraine. Since Slovakia is a member of the Schengen Area and Ukraine is not, the border controls here are comprehensive and strict. A passport must be presented, and in many cases a visa is also required to enter Ukraine. When entering Slovakia, Ukrainians must also provide proof of compliance with Schengen regulations. The controls serve to ensure compliance with entry regulations and to prevent illegal migration, especially into the EU.

To enter Ukraine, EU citizens need a valid passport. A visa is not required for tourist stays of up to 90 days. However, you should ensure that your passport is still valid for at least six months beyond the planned return date. It is also important to note that entry requirements may change depending on the political and social situation. It is recommended to always check the current regulations before traveling. These regulations apply because Ukraine is not part of the Schengen Area and is also not a member state of the EU.

General Information About the Currency

In Ukraine, the national currency, the hryvnia (UAH), is used. It is advisable to exchange some cash into hryvnia before traveling to Ukraine, as credit card payments may not always be possible in rural areas or at border crossings. However, there are usually currency exchange offices near the border crossings.

Can You Pay the Toll at the Crossing?

Yes, at many border crossings the toll can be paid directly. However, it is recommended to purchase a digital vignette before your trip. The digital vignette for Slovakia can be purchased online and offers the advantage that you don't have to search for a point of sale at border crossings or rest stops.

The Most Important Border Crossings

All border crossings between Slovakia and Ukraine are located, given the shortness of the border, in the eastern part of Slovakia and connect this part of the country with the southwest of Ukraine. Therefore, there are no crossings between the two countries in the north, west, or south. The most important border crossings are:

• Vyšné Nemecké: At Vyšné Nemecké is the largest and most frequently used crossing between Slovakia and Ukraine. Here, crossing is possible both on foot and by car. This crossing is located near the city of Uzhhorod in Ukraine and is an important hub for trade and travel traffic.

• Vel'ké Slemence: This crossing is unique, as it is open only to pedestrians. Vel'ké Slemence connects the two towns of Veľké Slemence in Slovakia and Mali Selmentsi in Ukraine. These towns were once a single village that was divided by the border drawn after the Second World War. Due to its history, this crossing is often referred to as "Little Berlin". For pedestrian border crossers, this crossing offers a quick and uncomplicated way to cross the national border.

• Ubl'a: The Ubl'a crossing also allows both pedestrians and drivers to cross the border. This crossing is also located near Uzhhorod and is an important connection for people traveling to eastern Slovakia or southwestern Ukraine.

Slovakia

The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether a distance-based toll exists.

Slovakia: Vignette Requirement (or Not?)

On nearly all motorway and expressway sections in Slovakia, a vignette requirement applies. The vignette requirement applies to vehicles up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight. It is important to note that motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement and do not need a vignette. In addition, motorhomes are a special case, as they require a vignette regardless of their weight (i.e. even if they weigh over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight). Furthermore, for combinations (car + trailer), it should be noted that if the combined weight is under 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, only the vignette for the car is required, whereas if the total weight exceeds 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, an additional vignette must be purchased for the trailer.

Motorcycles are therefore exempt from the vignette requirement and do not have to pay any fees for using motorways and expressways!

The Role of the Distance-Based Toll

The vignette requirement does not apply to vehicles over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight (except motorhomes, which are only subject to the vignette requirement, regardless of their weight). Instead, a distance-based toll is charged, which is calculated based on the kilometers driven, the vehicle class (number of axles), and the emission class (pollutant level). This distance-based toll is recorded using a transponder, i.e. a transmitting device (on-board unit). This allows the amount due to be automatically deducted. Therefore, you must have such a transmitting device installed in your vehicle beforehand. The distance-based toll covers motorways, expressways, and in some cases first-class (national roads) and second-class roads (regional roads/state roads).

Ukraine

In Ukraine, there are no toll roads. For more information on tolls in Ukraine and toll regulations in Ukraine's neighboring countries, please see our guide.

The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Trip

We wish you a pleasant trip to Slovakia and lots of enjoyment as you explore this diverse country. If you are planning a trip to one of the two countries or would even like to visit both, you can easily purchase a vignette from us. You can find more information on tolls in Slovakia in our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to optimally plan your trip and see the suitable toll products displayed. If you have any questions, we are available at any time via email.