Opening of the «Dyakivtsi — Rakovets» point for large buses: what has changed for Ukrainian refugees
In the conditions of a long war and forced resettlement, the question of the availability of land routes remains relevant for hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians. A significant part of the displaced persons who ended up in Romania, Poland, Germany or Italy are regularly forced to cross the Ukrainian border due to family circumstances, processing of documents, changes in status or personal reasons. For this mobile part of the population, the infrastructure of checkpoints plays an important role, in particular, the ability to travel by bus without spending extra hours on transfers or detours. Against the background of the growth of seasonal traffic and the uneven load on western routes, the checkpoint «Dyakivtsi — Rakovets» on the Ukrainian-Romanian border attracts attention. It used to have infrastructure restrictions that did not allow high-capacity buses, but from July 2025 these restrictions have been temporarily lifted. This opens up new opportunities for carriers and passengers, who until now had to use congested routes through Siret, Porubne or Transcarpathia.
Temporary lifting of restrictions: what has changed
From July 9 to September 30, 2025, the checkpoint «Dyakivtsi — Rakovets» was officially opened for buses of all dimensions and passenger capacity. Until now, precisely because of infrastructural features on the part of Romania, large-sized bus transport could not freely cross the border at this place. The restrictions have been in place for years and have forced carriers and passengers to use other, often congested, routes.
The decision to temporarily lift the ban was the result of agreements between the Ukrainian and Romanian parties. As reported by the State Customs Service of Ukraine, the move is aimed at reducing the load on other crossings, which operate in peak mode in the summer. For Ukrainians traveling to Romania or in transit to other EU countries, this means new logistical opportunities without additional detours.
Who can use the route?
Both large international bus companies and local carriers that organize regular or special flights for refugees, tourists, labor migrants, students, pilgrims or relatives can use the Dyakivtsi — Rakovets point. The opening of this direction allows for flexible travel planning, in particular from Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk or Ternopil, where many migrants or temporary residents have family and social ties to the EU.
This is especially important for those Ukrainians traveling with small children, people with disabilities, or the elderly — direct routes reduce travel time, reduce workload, and reduce the risk of delays.
Driving conditions: what you should know
Even after removing the technical restrictions, there are a number of rules that must be followed. First of all, prior registration in the eChherga electronic system is mandatory. This applies to all buses and trucks. Without such registration, the carrier will not be able to pass the control in time or be allowed to cross at all.
The checkpoint «Dyakivtsi — Rakovets» works around the clock and accepts all types of transport — buses, cars, trucks and pedestrians. Such versatility makes it convenient even for families traveling in different formats: some by bus, some by private car, some on foot — all can cross the border in one place without breaking the route.
When planning a border crossing, especially in the summer, there are several things to consider that are crucial:
- Registration in eCherga: without it, buses may be turned away or delayed. The service works online, but it is better to register in advance.
- Green card insurance: for all cars leaving Ukraine, the presence of an international insurance policy is a mandatory condition for crossing the border.
- Health insurance for passengers: Although not always checked, EU border guards have the right to request a policy on entry. This is especially relevant for bus passengers who are not refugees, but are traveling for a short time (for example, family visit, shopping, tourism).
- Confirmation of the purpose of the trip and financial means: according to European rules, border guards can check documents confirming where and to whom you are going, as well as the availability of funds for your stay.
- Passport validity: It is important that your international passport is valid for at least three months after the date you plan to leave the EU. Otherwise, not only detention, but also refusal of entry is possible.
For Ukrainian refugees who have been living between countries for several years, work in Romania or use it as a transit zone to Italy, Spain, Germany, this checkpoint provides real relief. The decision to allow free movement of buses is not only a technical achievement. This is a gesture of understanding on the part of both countries, which recognize the real demand for safe and convenient travel.
In the coming months, the new route will be a chance to avoid hours-long queues in Siret, Porubny or Transcarpathia. And therefore, it is a chance for many families to be together faster, without unnecessary costs and stress.
The temporary opening of the «Dyakivtsi — Rakovets» point for large-sized buses is an important change in the geography of the Ukrainian-Romanian border area. It not only relieves other destinations, but also gives Ukrainians more flexibility in planning trips. At a time when every hour on the road and every simplified check counts, these innovations are a significant step forward for those forced to live between countries.
