The Slovakia and Austria share a significant common border that stretches over about 106 kilometers. This border plays a central role in European transport, as it connects important trade and travel routes. In this blog post, we take a detailed look at the border crossings between these two countries, the current regulations, and the specific details that travelers should consider.
The border between Slovakia and Austria is relatively short but includes a variety of crossings that are important for both road traffic and cyclists and pedestrians. These crossings range from highways to ferries over the March River, offering diverse options to cross the border.
Austria spans approximately 83,879 square kilometers and has about 9.13 million inhabitants. This makes its area almost a quarter of Germany’s, while the population is less than a tenth of Germany's population.
Since Slovakia’s accession to the Schengen Area in 2007, systematic controls at the border crossings between Slovakia and Austria have been abolished. This means that travelers can generally pass the border without passport checks. However, temporary controls may be implemented due to special events or security measures. Therefore, it is advisable to always carry a valid passport or ID card.
For citizens of the European Union, including Slovakia and Austria, there are no special entry requirements. However, for travelers from third countries, the general Schengen visa regulations apply. They must present a valid passport and, if applicable, a visa upon entry. It is important to check the specific entry requirements in advance to avoid unexpected issues at the border.
Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe, known for its rich cultural history, impressive landscapes, and high quality of life. The country is a member of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area, which simplifies cross-border travel. Vienna, the capital, is a cultural and economic center and lies just a few kilometers from its Slovak counterpart Bratislava. This proximity fosters close economic and cultural relations between the two cities. The official language of this EU country is German, although in some areas of the country, Slovak and other minority languages are also recognized as official languages.
Austria is a federal parliamentary republic consisting of nine federal states. The government is controlled by the parliament, which consists of the National Council and the Federal Council. The federal president is the head of state, while the federal chancellor leads the government. Since December 2021, Karl Nehammer of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) has been the federal chancellor. The government operates according to the principle of the separation of powers and is democratically legitimized through regular elections. Austria's political system and administration are characterized by their stable democracy and the high level of political participation by citizens.
While Slovakia has used the euro as its official currency since January 1, 2009, the euro has been in circulation in Austria since January 1, 2002. Therefore, there is no currency conversion when crossing the border between these two countries. This significantly simplifies trade and tourism, as there are no currency exchange fees between Slovakia and Austria.
Toll fees for Austrian highways and expressways must generally be paid before using the roads. This can be done either with a sticker vignette or, as is increasingly preferred, with a digital vignette for Austria. The digital vignette has the advantage of being immediately valid without waiting time. It can be conveniently purchased online and is directly registered to the vehicle's license plate, eliminating the need for physical checks.
The options for border crossings between Slovakia and Austria are diverse and offer suitable crossing options for different modes of transport. Below are the most important crossings and their specifics:
Kittsee (Highway) – Bratislava–Jarovce: This highway crossing is one of the main traffic hubs in the east, directly connecting the two capitals. It is heavily frequented and plays a key role in international trade and commuter traffic.
Kittsee (Old Road) – Bratislava–Jarovce: This alternative route to the highway also leads to the Slovak capital and is often used by travelers who wish to avoid highway traffic.
Berg – Bratislava–Petržalka: This crossing leads directly to the district of Petržalka and is an important access point for daily commuter traffic.
Schloss Hof / Freedom Bicycle Bridge – Devínska Nová Ves: This bridge is specifically designed for cyclists and pedestrians, connecting the scenic landscapes of Schloss Hof in Austria with the city of Devínska Nová Ves in Slovakia.
Marchegg Bicycle Bridge – Vysoká pri Morave: Another bridge accessible only to cyclists and pedestrians, offering a quiet alternative for cross-border tours.
Angern – Záhorská Ves (Ferry): This ferry connection across the March River is particularly important for local traffic and offers a charming way to cross the border.
Hohenau – Moravský Svätý Ján: This crossing in the north is primarily designed for car traffic and is frequently used by travelers on less busy routes.
The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there is a distance-based toll.
A vignette is required on nearly all highway and expressway sections in Slovakia for vehicles up to 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight. 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 gross vehicle weight). Furthermore, for combinations (car + trailer), if the weight is under 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight, only the car needs a vignette. However, if the total weight exceeds 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight, an additional vignette for the trailer must be purchased.
Motorcycles are therefore exempt from the vignette requirement and do not have to pay tolls for using highways and expressways!
The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are specific toll sections.
For using the Austrian highways and expressways, toll fees are required in the form of a vignette. Therefore, vehicles up to 3.5 tons require a (digital) vignette. You can choose from various durations depending on your vehicle class. For more information, please visit here.
However, there are also toll-free highways.
Please note that for vehicles over 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight, the vignette requirement does not apply, and instead, a distance-based toll must be paid. This toll, based on mileage, is calculated using a GO-Box, which must be installed in your vehicle for data collection.
For more information about various tunnels and specific mountain pass roads, you can find more details here.
Order your vignette conveniently and easily with us, and choose between different durations for Austria and Slovakia Slovakia. Also, explore the beautiful hiking areas of Austria.
