Slovakia Poland Border Crossing
Slovakia and Poland share a long and historic border that runs through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and impressive mountain ranges. This post provides a comprehensive overview of the border crossings between these two neighboring countries, including information on border controls, entry requirements, currency, and toll fees.
Length of the border crossings
The border between Slovakia and Poland stretches for about 541 kilometers and includes a wide variety of crossings, offering travelers different options depending on their route and mode of transport. This number of border crossings allows for flexible and convenient travel between the two countries.
General information about Slovakia
Slovakia is a country in Central Europe that borders Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, and Ukraine. The capital is Bratislava, which lies on the Danube and forms both the cultural and economic heart of the country. The current President of Slovakia is Peter Pellegrini, who has been in office since June 2024. Slovakia is known for its impressive landscapes, including the High Tatras, historic towns, and a rich cultural history. The country offers an impressive range of cultural and scenic experiences that delight visitors.
The official language of Slovakia is Slovak. With an area of 49,035 km², Slovakia is significantly smaller than Germany.
Are there border controls at the border crossing?
Since both countries joined the Schengen Area, there are no systematic border controls at the border between Slovakia and Poland. Travelers can therefore cross the border freely without having to stop at a border post. However, random checks may be carried out by police or customs authorities, especially during periods of increased security measures, even though the traveler is entering a state that is a member of the EU.
What are the entry requirements for Slovakia?
Thanks to the Schengen Agreement, EU citizens do not need any special documents to travel between Slovakia and Poland. A valid ID card or passport is sufficient. For citizens outside the EU, the usual Schengen regulations apply, meaning they need a visa if they are not allowed to enter the Schengen Area visa-free.
Can the toll be paid at the border?
Paying the toll at the border is generally not necessary, as most toll systems in both countries operate electronically. In Slovakia, vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW must purchase an electronic vignette (e-vignette). In Poland, most motorways and expressways are subject to tolls, and fees can be paid at the toll stations in cash or by card.
The most important border crossings
Vyšný Komárnik - Barwinek: This border crossing is one of the most important on the main road between Slovakia and Poland. It is located on International Road E371 and is suitable for all vehicle types. The route is well-developed and offers a fast connection between the two countries. There are numerous other border crossings, each with its own特点特色 and advantages.
Skalité - Zwardoń-Myto: There are two options here: one is only for cars, while the other is open to all vehicle types. This crossing is located in a picturesque region and is particularly popular with tourists traveling to the Tatra Mountains.
Trstená - Chyżne: Another important border crossing located on International Road E77. This route is frequently used by trucks, as it is one of the main traffic routes between Slovakia and Poland.
Tatranská Javorina - Łysa Polana: This crossing has a weight limit of 7.5 tons and is primarily suitable for lighter vehicles and tourists wishing to explore the beauty of the Tatra National Parks.
Mníšek nad Popradom - Piwniczna-Zdrój: A border crossing that is exclusively for cars. This route is less frequented and offers a quiet alternative for travelers who want to avoid the busy main roads.
Čirč - Leluchów: Another quiet road crossing suitable for all vehicle types. This route passes through a scenic area and is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the border region.
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?)
A vignette requirement applies to almost all motorway and expressway sections in Slovakia. The vignette requirement applies to vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW. 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 more than 3.5 t GVW). It should also be noted that for combinations (car + trailer), if the weight is under 3.5 t GVW, only the vignette for the car is needed, whereas if the total weight exceeds 3.5 t GVW, 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 GVW (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., an on-board unit (OBU). This allows the amount payable to be deducted automatically. Therefore, you must have such a device installed in your vehicle beforehand. The distance-based toll covers motorways, expressways, as well as, in part, first-class roads (national roads) and second-class roads (regional/state roads).
Poland
Poland: Vignette requirement (or not?)
In Poland, in addition to the distance-based toll obligation, there is no vignette requirement.
The role of the distance-based toll
The toll system in Poland is based on a distance-based toll obligation, which varies depending on the vehicles and the type of financed motorway sections.
Vehicles and combinations under 3.5 tons GVW
The toll is a distance-based toll, calculated based on the distance traveled. Note that there is no nationwide uniform price per kilometer, meaning that different prices apply on different motorway sections. On concession motorways, you can pay either in cash or by card. In our article on tolls in Poland, you can learn more about exactly which routes are subject to tolls.
Vehicles and combinations over 3.5 tons GVW
All vehicles over 3.5 tons are subject to tolls on both private motorway sections (concession motorways) and publicly funded motorways, as well as on expressways and national roads.
The toll is a distance-based toll, calculated based on the distance traveled. Note that there is no nationwide uniform price per kilometer, meaning that different prices apply on different motorway sections. While on the concession motorways you can pay either in cash or by card, it is different on the publicly funded routes. If you drive on the publicly funded routes with a vehicle over 3.5 tons and are therefore subject to the toll obligation, you can only pay electronically via the e-TOLL system. To do this, the vehicle must be registered (or must be registered) with e-TOLL — either online or in person. Only then can billing be carried out using the e-TOLL PL app, an on-board unit (OBU), or an external locating device (ZSL) installed in the vehicle.
Important: viaBOX and viaTOLL can no longer be used! A more detailed explanation can be found here.
The fee charged varies depending on the road category, the permissible total weight of the vehicle or vehicle combination, and the Euro emission class.
Further information on tolls in Poland is available in our guide.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey
We wish you a pleasant journey to Slovakia and lots of enjoyment as you explore this diverse country. Further information on tolls in Slovakia can be found in our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to optimally plan your trip and see suitable toll products displayed. If you have any questions, we are always available via email.
