Bosnia and Herzegovina

Border delays

There has been a significant increase in asylum seekers into Europe in recent years. In some cases, police are preventing them crossing borders and accessing transport.

This has caused disruption to some cross-border road and rail services. More transport disruptions and border delays are possible.

To avoid delays at local borders, you should:

• check local news and transport providers for current information
• allow extra time if you’re travelling by road or train
• have back-up plans
• avoid large groups
• follow the advice of local authorities

Unexploded weapons

Unmarked landmines and other unexploded remnants of war are widespread throughout the country. They are found mostly in forests and isolated areas. 

Avoid these areas.

See the Bosnia and Herzegovina Mine Action Centre before you travel.

Driving permit

To drive a vehicle, you’ll need both:

• a current Australian driver’s licence
• a valid international driving permit (IDP)

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

Road travel

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• bad roads
• poor road lighting
• poorly maintained vehicles
• drivers ignoring road rules

Black ice, fog and landslides can make roads hazardous in winter and spring.

Driver’s insurance

You need to have the correct insurance cover to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina in a vehicle. If you don’t, border police will direct you to an insurer at the border crossing to buy insurance.

If travelling by car, research and prepare before entry.

Not all border crossings have an insurer’s office and credit card payments aren’t always possible.

Local traffic laws

You must have your headlights on at all times.

From 15 November to 15 April, you must use winter tyres or tyres with snow chains. 

The blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. For drivers younger than 21, or with less than 3 years driving experience, the limit is 0%.

Police can collect traffic fines on the spot.

Speed limits

Speed limits for driving are:

• 50km/h on urban roads
• between 80 and 100km/h on roads outside urban areas
• 130km/h along motorways

They’re not always signposted on rural roads.

More information:

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer if your policy covers you riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Taxis are available in most towns and for inter-city travel.

Use only registered taxis with licence plates beginning with ‘TA’.

Ensure the meter is running throughout your trip. Pay particular attention at the airport.

Public transport

Public transport is usually reliable but it can be crowded and standards vary.

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Bosnia and Herzegovina’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government