Guide to Residency in Serbia

Obtaining a residency visa in Serbia is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Serbia gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Prepare Necessary Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Completed visa application form (can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website)
  • Two recent photographs (passport size)
  • Proof of sufficient funds for stay in Serbia
  • Proof of purpose of stay (e.g., work contract, invitation letter, enrollment certificate)
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Proof of accommodation
• Apply for a Long-Stay Visa (Visa D)
  • Visit the nearest Serbian embassy or consulate in your home country
  • Submit the prepared documents
  • Pay the visa application fee
  • Wait for the visa to be processed
• Register with the Local Police Station
  • Upon arrival in Serbia, visit the local police station within 24 hours
  • Present your passport and visa
  • Complete the registration form
  • Obtain a white card (proof of registration)
• Apply for a Tax Number (JMBG)
  • Visit the local tax administration office
  • Present your passport and white card
  • Complete the application form
  • Obtain your tax number
• Open a Bank Account
  • Visit a bank of your choice
  • Present your passport, white card, and tax number
  • Complete the application form
  • Make an initial deposit
  • Obtain your bank account details
• Register with the Local Health Center
  • Visit the local health center
  • Present your passport, white card, and proof of health insurance
  • Complete the registration form
  • Obtain your health card
• Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
  • Visit the local police station
  • Present your passport, white card, tax number, and other required documents (e.g., proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, proof of purpose of stay)
  • Complete the application form
  • Pay the application fee
  • Wait for the permit to be processed
• Renew Your Residence Permit
  • Before the expiration of your temporary residence permit, visit the local police station
  • Present your passport, current residence permit, and other required documents
  • Complete the renewal application form
  • Pay the renewal fee
  • Wait for the renewal to be processed

Notes

The processes and requirements may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the region of Serbia where you plan to reside. It is recommended to consult the official websites of the relevant authorities or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Some of the official websites that may be useful include:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Ministry of Interior
• Tax Administration
• National Bank of Serbia

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Serbia?

"In order to visit Serbia, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Serbia, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Ministry of Interior. The application must include a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a valid residence permit. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," commented one member living in Serbia.