Malyi Bereznyi & Ubľa Border Crossing

A Crossing in the Carpathian Mountains

Important Note for Travelers: Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, all border crossings are under significant strain. Wait times can be long and unpredictable. It is essential to consult official government sources and live queue data for the most up-to-date information on its operational status before planning any travel.

The border crossing connecting the Ukrainian village of Malyi Bereznyi with Ubľa in Slovakia is a secondary checkpoint nestled in the beautiful, forested foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. Unlike the massive, congested highway crossing at Uzhhorod, this route offers a more scenic and typically quieter passage between the two nations. It is a 24/7 international crossing, but its more remote, mountainous location and the winding nature of the roads leading to it mean that it is used more by local traffic and tourists than by long-haul freight. To cross here is to take a journey through a landscape of stunning natural beauty, a land of wooden churches, pristine forests, and a shared Rusyn cultural heritage.

Operational Details

This checkpoint connects Ukraine’s Zakarpattia Oblast with Slovakia’s Prešov Region. It is a full-service international crossing, open to both passenger cars and commercial freight, although the volume of trucks is significantly lower than at Vyšné Nemecké. Its continuous operation makes it a reliable alternative for travelers seeking to avoid the extreme queues at the main crossing, especially for those whose destinations are in the northern part of eastern Slovakia or the Bieszczady Mountains region of Poland.

A History of a Rusyn Homeland

The history of this region is the history of the Carpathian Rusyns (also known as Ruthenians), a distinct East Slavic ethnic group that has inhabited these mountains for centuries. The border, established after World War II, divided the Rusyn homeland between Ukraine, Slovakia, and Poland. The Malyi Bereznyi-Ubľa crossing is a vital link for this transnational community, allowing for the maintenance of family ties and cultural traditions. The region is famous for its unique wooden churches, or `tserkvas`, built in a distinct Lemko or Boyko architectural style. Many of these churches, on both sides of the border, are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Border Crossing Procedure

The border crossing procedure is a standard two-part process for entering the EU and the Schengen Area. You will first complete exit formalities at the Ukrainian checkpoint at Malyi Bereznyi. After a short drive, you will arrive at the Slovak checkpoint at Ubľa for a full EU/Schengen entry inspection by the Slovak border police and customs authorities. You will need a valid passport, a Schengen visa (if required), vehicle registration, and international insurance (Green Card). While the crossing is generally less congested than Uzhhorod-Vyšné Nemecké, the increased traffic since 2022 means that queues can still form, particularly during peak travel times.

The Surrounding Region

The surrounding area is a paradise for nature lovers and those interested in history and folk architecture. On the Ukrainian side, the crossing is the gateway to the Uzhanskyi National Park, a pristine area of old-growth beech forests that is part of the transnational “Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians” UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is dotted with beautiful wooden churches. On the Slovak side, the crossing leads into the Poloniny National Park, which is contiguous with the Ukrainian park and also part of the UNESCO site. The area is known for its dark sky park, offering incredible stargazing opportunities. The famous “Wooden Churches of the Slovak Carpathians” are also located in this region.

Practical Travel Information

Practical planning is key for this route. The roads leading to the crossing are regional and wind through mountainous terrain. They are paved but require a more cautious driving pace than a major highway. The scenery, however, is a major reward. The official currencies are the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) and the Euro (EUR). Services at the border are limited, so it is best to plan for fuel and currency exchange in the larger towns of Velykyi Bereznyi in Ukraine or Snina in Slovakia. You will need the Slovak `elektronická diaľničná známka` (electronic vignette) if you plan to use the motorways further into Slovakia.

Final Considerations

The Malyi Bereznyi–Ubľa border crossing is a scenic and valuable alternative for travel between Ukraine and Slovakia. It offers a journey through a region of outstanding natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. For tourists exploring the Carpathian national parks and the UNESCO-listed wooden churches, it is the most logical and pleasant route. In the current climate, its role as a secondary artery has become even more important, providing another crucial link for the movement of people. It is a border crossing that offers not just transit, but an entry into the wild, beautiful heart of the Eastern Carpathians.