Population
6.6 million
Capital
Belgrade
Languages
Serbian
💰Cost & Practicalities
🏥Living Conditions
🛂Immigration
Visas & Immigration
View all🇷🇸Citizenship by Naturalization
Serbian citizenship through naturalization requires 6 years total residence: 3 years temporary + 3 years permanent residence. Applicants must be 18+, demonstrate good character with clean criminal record, show integration into Serbian society including basic language knowledge, and prove economic/social ties (employment, property, family connections). Must renounce previous citizenship unless home country forbids it (dual citizenship not permitted for naturalized citizens). Citizenship by descent available for those with Serbian heritage regardless of residence. Citizenship by exception exists for those with exceptional contributions to Serbia.
🏢Company Formation Residency
Serbia residency through establishing a company offers an accessible pathway with no minimum investment requirement. Foreign nationals can register a limited liability company (DOO) and obtain residence as company director or founder. Both domestic and foreign nationals can serve as founders and legal representatives. Ideal for entrepreneurs, investors, and those seeking tax-efficient structures. Serbia's 10% flat income tax and up to 70% tax relief for qualifying newcomers make it attractive for business owners. Path to permanent residence after 3 years, citizenship after 6 years total.
👨👩👧👦Family Reunification
Family reunification visa for spouses, partners, minor children, and dependent parents of Serbian citizens or foreign residents. One of the most accessible family reunification pathways in the region. Eligible family members include spouses, civil partners, children under 18, adopted children, and dependent parents requiring family support. Health insurance and financial proof may be waived if sponsor is employed in Serbia. Residence granted for up to 3 years, renewable. Family members of work permit holders receive automatic work authorization. Path to permanent residence after 3 years.
🏠Permanent Residence
Permanent residence available after 3 years of continuous legal temporary residence in Serbia. Continuous residence allows absences of up to 10 months total or one absence of up to 6 months during the 3-year period. Permanent residents have full work rights and access to public services. No need to renew permits. Provides stable long-term status leading to citizenship eligibility. Must maintain actual residence in Serbia.
💻Self-Employment / Remote Work Permit
Serbia's pathway for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. While Serbia has not officially launched a dedicated digital nomad visa program, the self-employment residence permit allows remote workers to live legally while working for foreign clients. Requires proof of remote work activity, health insurance, and financial means. The single permit system (introduced 2024) combines residence and work authorization in one application. Permits issued for up to 3 years. Income proof of approximately €3,500/month for the last 6 months may be requested. Applicants need around €500 in their bank account plus visa fees. No right to work for Serbian companies.
🎓Student Visa
Study visa for international students enrolled at Serbian universities and educational institutions. Serbia offers affordable tuition (€500-2,500/year) and low living costs. Students apply for D visa (long-stay) for education purposes, then extend to temporary residence permit after enrollment. Must register with police within 24 hours of arrival. Residence permit renewed annually. Part-time work permitted. Graduates can transition to work permit upon receiving job offer. Growing IT and service sectors offer post-study employment opportunities.
📋Temporary Residence
General temporary residence permit for various purposes including property ownership, medical treatment, or other valid reasons under Serbian law. Serbia has no minimum investment for real estate-based residency, making it accessible for property buyers. Applicants must show valid legal grounds, health insurance, registered address, and sufficient funds. Initial permits often issued for 6 months before qualifying for longer durations. Can be extended for up to 3 years per application. Path to permanent residence after 3 years of continuous legal stay.
💼Work Permit
Employment-based residence and work permit (single permit) for foreigners hired by Serbian employers. The employer must conduct a labor market test through the National Employment Service (NES) for 10 days to verify no qualified local candidates are available. The single permit system combines residence and work authorization in one application, valid for up to 3 years. Employer sponsors the application. Processing typically takes 15-30 days. Newly settled foreigners under 40 or those who lived abroad for 24+ months may qualify for 70% tax relief on salary and social contributions for 5 years.
Expat Life
View allCost of Living
Serbia offers one of the lowest costs of living in Europe. A single person can live comfortably on €1,000/month including rent. Belgrade is 40-60% cheaper than Western European capitals.
Healthcare
Serbia has both public and private healthcare. Public care is accessible but can have long waits. Private healthcare is affordable by Western standards (€20-50 for GP visit). Health insurance is required for residence permits.
Banking
Foreigners can open bank accounts in Serbia with passport and proof of address. Non-residents can open accounts but with limited services. Serbia is not part of CRS (automatic tax information exchange). Full banking with residence permit.
Housing
Housing in Serbia is very affordable. Belgrade city center 1-bedroom: €350-600/month. No restrictions on foreigners buying property. Property ownership can support residence permit applications.
Remote Work
Belgrade is ranked 4th in Europe for digital nomads on Nomad List. Fast internet (110+ Mbps), numerous coworking spaces, affordable cafés, and free public transport make it ideal for remote work.
Language
Serbian is the official language, using both Cyrillic and Latin scripts. English is widely spoken among younger generations and in professional settings. Basic Serbian helps for daily life outside tourist areas.
Expat Community
Growing expat and digital nomad community, especially in Belgrade. Regular meetups, coworking events, and active Facebook groups. Community smaller than major expat hubs but friendly and accessible.
Transportation
Belgrade became the largest European city with free public transport in January 2025. No metro system yet, but extensive bus, tram, and trolleybus network. Taxis and rideshare are affordable.
Safety
Serbia is very safe with low crime rates. Belgrade's crime rate is lower than most Western European capitals. No "no-go zones." Main concerns are petty theft and taxi scams. Violent crime affecting tourists is extremely rare.
Climate & Weather
Continental climate with four distinct seasons. Hot summers (often 30°C+), cold winters (regularly below 0°C). Best times to visit: May and September. Be prepared for extreme temperatures in summer and winter.
Food & Dining
Serbian cuisine is hearty and meat-focused. Dining out is very affordable (€5-10 for a meal). Strong café culture with excellent coffee. Rakija (fruit brandy) is the national drink. Vegetarian options improving but limited.
Education
Serbia has public and private education systems. International schools available in Belgrade (€5,000-20,000/year). University education is affordable (€500-2,500/year for international students). Growing reputation in IT education.
Family Life
Serbia is family-friendly with affordable childcare, safe neighborhoods, and family-oriented culture. Maternity leave is generous (up to 2 years). Healthcare covers pregnancy and children. Family reunification is accessible.
Taxes
Serbia has attractive 10% flat income tax. New residents may qualify for 70% tax relief for 5 years. Residents taxed on worldwide income. Not part of CRS (no automatic tax info exchange). Corporate tax 15%.
Culture & Lifestyle
Serbia has a rich cultural heritage with strong traditions of hospitality, café culture, and family values. Nightlife is legendary. Music festivals like EXIT draw international crowds. Serbians are direct but warm.
Cities
Questions
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