Crossing the border by bus: a smooth path to adventure

In the world of traveling, buses always seem to be one of the most convenient and affordable options for long-distance travel. But what to do when your itinerary involves crossing a border? How can you make this procedure as stress-free and efficient as possible?

First of all, the thought of crossing a border by bus can cause some anxiety. Different countries, different laws, different languages - it's hard not to lose your head. But with the right approach and readiness for everything new, this process can be an interesting experience.

Documents for crossing the cordon

When we talk about documents, it is important not only to have them with you, but also to understand their importance. A passport, visa, certificates - all these are a kind of keys to another country. Qualitatively prepared documents are the first step to a successful border crossing.

Customs control can be a test of patience. But it is also an opportunity to see how international laws work and how they interact between different countries. It is an experience that allows us to better understand the world around us.

Interacting with border guards is another integral part of the process. No matter how well you know the language of the country you are entering, it is important to remember to be polite and patient. These are people who are doing their job, and they appreciate being treated with understanding.

Border crossing security

Regarding safety, when crossing the border, it is important not only to take care of your documents, but also to keep an eye on your luggage. Traveling by bus together can be a great experience, but it can also hide certain risks.

But don't forget about the pleasant moments. Crossing the border by bus gives you the opportunity to meet new people, hear their stories and share your own. It can be a great opportunity for a cultural exchange right in the middle of the road!

Traveling to another country is always an adventure. And while the process of crossing a border may seem difficult and demanding, it's also an opportunity to expand your horizons and have new experiences. So when you hit the road, remember to enjoy every moment.

Peculiarities of crossing the Polish border during the war

Currently, for Ukrainian citizens who intend to visit or are already on the territory of Poland, you should have the following with you:

• any identity card (ID-card, internal or foreign passport);
• document Diya PL (for those who receive temporary asylum in Poland);
• child's birth certificate (if you are traveling together with your child);
• a medical certificate (recommended, but not obligatory);
• various documents confirming the reason for the visit.

You should also take into account that in March 2023 Poland returned the rules for crossing the border with pets, which were in force before the military events.

Electronic queue for international bus transportation

The war and excellent air service have led many Ukrainians intending to travel abroad to choose buses. However, the condition of the vehicles, the waiting time at the border and the professionalism of the drivers are only a few aspects that can overshadow the journey.

Thus, the concerned government authority has embarked on a major transformation in the sector with the aim of providing passengers with a high level of service.

One of the initiatives aimed at achieving this goal is the introduction of an electronic queue selection system for border crossing. This service is already being effectively utilized for trucks. Since May, it has been extended to all checkpoints with the assistance of USAID/UK Aid's Transparency and Accountability in Management and Services/TAPAS project. The next phase is to implement this system for buses.

It is important to note that it is impossible to eliminate queues completely, as our checkpoints were not originally designed for this volume of traffic. However, it is achievable to organize this process.

Electronic registration for border crossing is a benefit for all participants of the process. However, the most important thing is to ensure comfort for millions of passengers, who will no longer spend up to 12 hours waiting in line, especially during the summer peak of passenger traffic.

«eQueue» system

The «eQueue» system allows carriers to plan the moment of border crossing in advance, avoiding long delays. It also gives the state an opportunity to analyze traffic flows and control loading, as the creators of the program note. The service aims to reduce waiting time at the border and provide a faster and more transparent border crossing process, reducing the human factor and risks of corruption, as specified in the Ministry of Cifra.

Passenger carriers registered in the online queue must approach the border crossing point according to the bus schedule. During the testing of the system, buses will not be given time to enter the checkpoint.

The «eQueue» system for buses operates at the following checkpoints:

Lviv region:

• "Krakowiec - Korczewa"
• "Shegini - Medyka"

Chernivtsi region:

• "Porubnoye - Siret"
• "Mamalyga - Krivaya"

Volyn region:

• "Jagodin - Dorogusk"
• "Ustilug - Zosin"

To reserve a place in the "eQueue" system, the driver should register on the website echerha.gov.ua, select a checkpoint and fill in information about the driver and the bus.

If the driver needs more time for the road, he/she can extend the waiting time once for 4, 6, 8 or 10 hours.