Dyakivtsi & Rakovets Border Crossing

A New, Modern Crossing

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 Dyakivtsi with Rakovets in Romania is one of the newest checkpoints on the border, officially opened for traffic in early 2023. It was a long-planned project, designed to improve local connectivity in the Bucovina region and to relieve congestion at the main crossing at Porubne-Siret. This is a modern facility, built with EU standards in mind, situated in a quiet, rural landscape. To cross here is to experience the most recent evolution of the Ukrainian-Romanian border, a route intended to be a model of efficient, small-scale cross-border traffic management.

Operational Details

This checkpoint connects Ukraine’s Chernivtsi Oblast with Romania’s Botoșani County. It is an international crossing with a key restriction: it is initially intended for passenger cars, buses, and light commercial vehicles, with the possibility of expanding to freight later. Its purpose is to serve the local communities and to provide a much-needed alternative to the overwhelmed Porubne-Siret crossing. It operates 24/7 and was constructed with a modern, efficient layout to provide a smooth and secure border crossing experience. Its opening was fast-tracked as a result of the 2022 invasion to improve Ukraine’s connections with the EU.

Before Crossing

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A History of a Divided Land

The history of this region is the history of Bucovina, a crown land of the Austrian Empire that was a famously multicultural melting pot of Romanians, Ukrainians, Germans, Jews, and Poles. The border, established after World War II, divided this historically integrated region. For decades, the communities in this part of the border had no direct crossing point, forcing them to make long detours to Siret. The opening of the Dyakivtsi-Rakovets crossing was a significant event for the local population, restoring a direct link that had been severed for over 70 years and promising to boost the local economy and facilitate family connections.

Border Crossing Procedure

The border crossing procedure is a standard two-part process for entering the EU, but it should be more efficient due to the new infrastructure and the initial focus on passenger traffic. You will first complete exit formalities at the new Ukrainian checkpoint at Dyakivtsi. After a short drive, you will arrive at the Romanian checkpoint at Rakovets for a full EU entry inspection by the Poliția de Frontieră and customs authorities. You will need a valid passport, vehicle registration, and international insurance (Green Card). As a new crossing, it is hoped that it will offer a significantly faster alternative to Porubne-Siret, but as traffic discovers the new route, queues may develop.

The Surrounding Region of Bucovina

The surrounding area is a beautiful, rural landscape of rolling hills, characteristic of the Bucovina region. On the Ukrainian side, the crossing is near the town of Hertsa, the center of a district with a large Romanian ethnic majority. The road provides a good connection to the city of Chernivtsi. On the Romanian side, the crossing is a gateway to the Botoșani and Suceava counties. It provides good access to the famous painted monasteries of Bucovina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and to the city of Suceava, the medieval capital of the Principality of Moldavia.

Practical Travel Information

Practical planning is key. The most important factor is to check the current vehicle restrictions. The roads leading to the crossing are regional and have been upgraded as part of the project. The official currencies are the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) and the Romanian Leu (RON). Services at the border itself are very limited. It is essential to plan for fuel and any currency exchange in the larger towns. You will need the Romanian `rovinietă` vignette for your vehicle, which should be purchased online in advance.

Final Considerations

The Dyakivtsi–Rakovets border crossing is a symbol of hope and a practical step towards better integration. It stands as a successful example of Ukrainian-Romanian cooperation, a project that was completed in the midst of a war. It offers a faster and less stressful experience for eligible travelers and is a vital new link for the local communities of Bucovina. It is a border crossing that represents a forward-looking approach to border management, a new bridge designed to bring people closer together in a region with a long and shared history.