Tabanovce border crossing faces delays due to new traffic fine enforcement

The implementation of the ‘Safe City’ intelligent camera system in North Macedonia has caused significant traffic congestion and long delays at the Tabanovce border crossing. The system uses automated license plate recognition to identify traffic violations, such as speeding or running red lights, committed by foreign drivers. Under the new enforcement mechanism, vehicles with outstanding fines are intercepted at the border and must settle their debts before being allowed to exit the country.

To manage the influx of drivers, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has opened eight specialized payment points at the crossing, with processing times estimated at approximately 15 minutes per driver. Authorities have also introduced a mobile application to allow foreign citizens to check for violations and pay fines electronically to avoid border delays.

Despite these measures, travelers from various countries, including Serbia, Germany, and Switzerland, have reported waiting for several hours in high temperatures. Many drivers have expressed frustration over technical issues with the online payment application and a lack of physical payment terminals for credit cards at the border. The enforcement covers violations recorded as far back as February 1, 2026.