Truckers to block Hungarian-Serbian border over new EU entry rules, traffic to be diverted towards Romania

Truck drivers from Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Montenegro are set to launch a large-scale protest on Monday, 26 January 2026, targeting the Hungarian-Serbian border. The demonstration, timed to begin at 12 noon, will close freight lanes at key border crossings, including Röszke, Tompa, and Hercegszántó, on both incoming and outgoing sides, and is expected to last for an indefinite period.

Protest targets EU border policy

According to Szeretlek Magyarország, the action is a response to the European Union’s new entry system, which transport associations say unfairly applies the Schengen 90/180-day stay rule to non-EU professional drivers.

Neđo Mandić, president of the Serbian International Carriers’ Association, explained: “If you divide the 90 days over six months, drivers can spend a maximum of 15 days actually working in the Schengen area.”

Djordjije Ljesnjak, representing Montenegro’s carriers, called the rule “a cunning attempt by the EU to take away our most skilled workforce.” Amir Hadžidedić, spokesperson for Bosnian hauliers, added that the demonstrations are intended solely to prompt the European Commission to address the issue.

The drivers demand that non-EU hauliers be treated as cross-border workers rather than tourists, granting them an exemption from the Schengen restrictions.

Alternative routes advised by police

Hungarian authorities have issued guidance to prevent congestion and ensure safety:

• M5 motorway towards M43: Freight traffic should exit onto the M43 and continue to Romania via Csanádpalota (Nagylak II) border crossing.
• M4 motorway towards Romania: Use Nagykereki (Bors II) crossing.
• M6 motorway towards Croatia: Exiting towards the Serbian border is prohibited due to the blockade. Trucks should continue to Croatia using transit routes.

Drivers are strongly advised not to wait on hard shoulders, as this is both illegal and life-threatening. Large truck parking areas along the M1, M0, M5, and M6 motorways should be used for breaks, with planning beginning from the western border (Hegyeshalom/Rajka).

Be prepared for uncertainty

Given the indefinite duration of the protest, hauliers are urged to ensure sufficient fuel, food, and water. Real-time updates can be found on the Police’s Border Information website, and drivers should monitor digital traffic signs along motorways.

Authorities thanked drivers and transport companies for their understanding and cooperation during the disruption.