The border between Slovakia and Hungary stretches over a length of approximately 655 kilometers and forms an important connection between the two countries. This border, which is significant both geographically and politically, is crossed by numerous border crossings that are crucial for the movement of people and goods.

Border Controls

Since Slovakia and Hungary joined the Schengen Area, border controls at most crossings have been largely abolished. However, temporary controls may still occur in certain situations, such as during security events or increased migration pressure, even within the European Union. Cross-border commuters should always check the current regulations before their journey. The Schengen guidelines allow citizens of both countries to cross the border without major delays. Official government websites of both the Slovak Republic and Hungary are an important source of information.

Important Border Crossings

The possibilities for crossing the border between Slovakia and Hungary are diverse along its 655 kilometers, ranging from large, well-developed road and rail crossings to smaller, regionally significant connections. Some of the most important crossings include the Komárom-Komárno crossing, the Esztergom-Štúrovo crossing, and the Rajka-Rusovce crossing, each playing a key role in cross-border traffic. While the overall length of the border remains constant, the importance of individual crossings varies depending on traffic volume and geographic location.

• Komárom - Komárno Border Crossing: This crossing is particularly important because it includes two bridges over the Danube. The new bridge was specifically built for road traffic, facilitating the transport of goods and people between the two countries. Additionally, there is the historic Elisabeth Bridge, considered a cultural landmark and an important connection between the two cities. This point is also referred to as the "Point in the North."
• Esztergom - Štúrovo: The Maria-Valeria Bridge at Esztergom-Štúrovo is another key crossing over the Danube. This bridge is not only historically significant but also an essential transport link between Hungary and Slovakia.
• Rajka - Rusovce: Located near the Austrian border in the south, this crossing serves as an important junction for traffic between Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria. It is particularly popular with travelers heading to or from Vienna.
• Tornyosnémeti - Milhosť: A lesser-known but still significant crossing in the eastern part of the border, primarily important for regional traffic.
• Komárom - Komárno Railway Crossing: In addition to the road bridges, there is an important railway connection in the west, linking the two cities and thus the two countries. This connection plays a central role in freight transport and is vital to the economy of both countries.

Hungary

The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are specific toll sections to be aware of.

Hungary: Vignette Requirement (or not?)

In Hungary, a vignette is required for cars, caravans, and motorhomes. This is the so-called e-Matrica (Hungarian vignette), which checks the toll electronically via the vehicle’s license plate. You should purchase the e-vignette online before your journey, as failure to have an e-vignette while driving on a toll road can result in fines.

Depending on the vehicle class, the toll fees vary. For example, cars with more than 7 seats are subject to higher fees than cars with fewer than 7 seats. For more information on the different vehicle classes, visit:

• DM1: Motorcycles (weekly and monthly vignettes)
• D1: Motorcycles (annual vignette), cars, and motorhomes (vehicle class M1) up to 3.5 t GVM and up to 7 seats (including trailers)
• D2: Commercial vehicles, cars, and motorhomes up to 3.5 t GVM (that don't fall into another category)
• U: Trailers up to 3.5 t GVM (vehicles of class D2)

Within the different vehicle classes, you can choose between different durations. If you're unsure about your vehicle class, you can find more details here.

Route-based Toll

The route-based toll must be paid if your vehicle exceeds 3.5 tons. This means motorhomes, buses, and trucks must pay an electronic toll based on the HU-GO system (electronic toll collection), which replaces the vignette. Therefore, you no longer need a vignette.

Slovakia

The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are specific toll sections to be aware of.

Slovakia: Vignette Requirement (or not?)

Almost all highway and expressway sections in Slovakia are subject to the vignette requirement. The vignette requirement applies to vehicles up to 3.5 tons. It is important to note that motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement and do not need a vignette. Additionally, motorhomes are an exception, as they require a vignette regardless of their weight (even if over 3.5 tons). For combinations (car + trailer), if the weight is under 3.5 tons, only the car needs a vignette, while for a total weight over 3.5 tons, an additional vignette for the trailer must be purchased.

Motorcycles are therefore exempt from the vignette requirement and do not need to pay toll fees for highways and expressways!

The Role of Route-based Tolls

For vehicles over 3.5 tons (except motorhomes, which are always vignette-required regardless of weight), a route-based toll applies. This toll is based on the distance traveled, the vehicle class (number of axles), and the emissions class (pollution levels). This route-based toll is recorded via a transponder (on-board unit), allowing automatic billing. Therefore, you must install such a device in your vehicle beforehand. The route-based toll includes highways, expressways, and some first-class (federal roads) and second-class (state roads) roads.

Your Journey Begins Now!

We wish you a great time on your trip and can provide you with more information about beautiful cities in Hungary. Order your digital vignette for Hungary and Slovakia now, so you can use toll roads stress-free.