Temporary Residence
If you plan to stay in Serbia for more than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a temporary residence permit. This permit allows you to live and work in Serbia for a specified period, typically one year, and can be renewed. Temporary residence is the only path to gaining permanent residence in Serbia. There are several grounds for obtaining a temporary residence permit, including:
Employment
If you have a job offer from a Serbian employer, you can apply for a temporary residence permit based on employment. To apply for this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A diploma certificate or other public document proving your qualifications
- An employer's excerpt on registration in the Republic of Serbia
- A landlord's statement of agreement to your registered residential address or a tenancy agreement
Business and Technical Activities
If you plan to engage in business or technical activities in Serbia, you can apply for a temporary residence permit based on this ground. There is no minimum investment amount required to qualify. To apply for this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A foreign citizen's photo
- A landlord's statement of agreement to your registered residential address or a tenancy agreement
- An employer's and foreign employer's statement of assignment or delegation to the Republic of Serbia
- A foreign employer's statement or a certificate of employment abroad
- Contract on business and technical cooperation entered between an employer and a foreign employer
- An employer's and foreign employer's statement that you will be returned to work with a foreign employer at the end of the secondment
To register a company in Serbia, you will need to:
- Choose a name and arrange a legal address.
- Prepare founding documents and lease documents for real estate. If the premises are owned, documents confirming ownership will be required.
- Open an account in one of the banks in Serbia.
- Submit documents to the Agencija za Priivredne Registre (Agency for Business Registers). Registration takes about 8 working days. Then you will be issued a registration certificate and tax number.
Education
Enrolling in an educational institution in Serbia can also be a basis for obtaining a temporary residence permit. To apply for this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Two photos (35x45mm, color, full face)
- Proof of paid prescribed administrative fee
- A landlord's statement of agreement to your registered residential address
Family Reunification
If you have family members who are citizens or permanent residents of Serbia, you may be eligible for a temporary residence permit based on family reunification. To apply for this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Two photos (35x45mm, color, full face)
- Proof of paid prescribed administrative fee
- A landlord's statement of agreement to your registered residential address
- Proof of kinship with a citizen of the Republic of Serbia or a foreign citizen who has been granted permanent residence (birth certificate)
Real Estate Ownership
Purchasing real estate in Serbia can also be a pathway to obtaining a temporary residence permit. To apply for this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Two photos (35x45mm, color, full face)
- Proof of paid prescribed administrative fee
- A landlord's statement of agreement to your registered residential address
- A certified purchase contract
Medical Treatment
You can obtain temporary residence in Serbia for medical treatment. To apply for this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Two photos (35x45mm, color, full face)
- Proof of paid prescribed administrative fee
- A landlord's statement of agreement to your registered residential address
- Documentation on illness, in case of unforeseen events with you and members of your immediate family (severe illness, death, etc.), i.e. by other document that proves the validity of the reasons why you require medical treatment in Serbia.
Unified Permit (Residence and Work Permit)
Serbia has introduced a unified permit that combines the residence and work permit, streamlining the process for those seeking employment in the country. This permit is issued electronically and is specifically designed for those who intend to work in Serbia.
General Requirements for Temporary Residence
To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will generally need the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Proof of the grounds for your stay (e.g., employment contract, enrollment certificate, property deed)
- Details about your financial means to support yourself in Serbia
- Proof of health insurance
- A registered address of residence in Serbia
- Completed application forms
- An apostille stamp from the government office where you obtained the document
Important Considerations for Temporary Residence
- Visa D: If you require a visa to enter Serbia, you must obtain a long-stay visa (visa D) before arriving in the country. This visa allows you to stay in Serbia for up to 180 days while you apply for a temporary residence permit.
- Residency Registration: Upon arrival in Serbia, you must register your stay at the nearest police station within 24 hours.
- Financial Stability: You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Serbia.
- Health Insurance: Having valid health insurance coverage is a requirement for obtaining a temporary residence permit.
- Family Inclusion: The Serbian residency by investment program allows for family members to be included in the application.
Permanent Residence
After five years of continuous temporary residence in Serbia, you can apply for permanent residence. This is the only way to obtain permanent residence. Permanent residence allows you to live in Serbia indefinitely.
Requirements for Permanent Residence
To be eligible for permanent residence, you must meet the following requirements:
- Have legally resided in Serbia for at least five consecutive years with a temporary residence permit.
- Have lived in Serbia for at least 183 days each year during your temporary residence.
- Have a valid temporary residence permit at the time of application.
- Provide proof of financial stability and health insurance.
- Have a registered address of residence in Serbia.
Special Cases for Permanent Residence
In certain situations, you may be eligible for permanent residence even if you haven't fulfilled the standard five-year temporary residence requirement. These include:
- Being a minor with at least one Serbian parent or a foreign parent with permanent residence status in Serbia.
- Having made significant contributions to the interests of the Republic of Serbia.
- Being granted permission to stay in Serbia for humanitarian reasons.
Reciprocity Explanation Request
When renewing residency based on property ownership, you may need to submit a reciprocity explanation request to the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Serbia.
Citizenship
Once you have obtained permanent residence, you can apply for Serbian citizenship after three years.
Requirements for Citizenship
To be eligible for Serbian citizenship, you must generally meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have been released from your previous citizenship or provide evidence that you will be released upon acquiring Serbian citizenship.
- Have had registered permanent residence in Serbia for at least three years without interruption.
- Submit a signed statement declaring that you consider Serbia your country.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the Serbian language.
- Demonstrate knowledge of Serbian culture.
- Submit a loyalty declaration.
Alternative Paths to Citizenship
- Citizenship by Descent: If one or both of your parents are Serbian citizens, you may be eligible for citizenship by descent, regardless of where you were born. To be eligible, you must be over 18 years old, fit to work, and provide a written declaration stating that you consider the Republic of Serbia your homeland.
- Citizenship by Marriage: If you are married to a Serbian citizen, you can apply for citizenship after three years of continuous residence in Serbia, provided the marriage remains valid during this period.
- Citizenship by Exception: In exceptional cases, the Serbian government may grant citizenship to individuals who have made significant contributions to Serbian society, even if they don't meet the standard residency requirements.
Dual Citizenship
Serbia generally allows dual citizenship, meaning you can hold Serbian citizenship along with the citizenship of another country if you meet the requirements for both.
Termination of Citizenship
Serbian citizenship can be terminated on the basis of release if you:
- Are over 18 years old.
- Have no objections on account of military service obligation.
- Have paid taxes and regulated other legal obligations in Serbia.
- Have regulated proprietary obligations stemming from marriage and parent-child relations in relation to persons living in Serbia.
- Are not subject to criminal proceedings for criminal offenses.
- Have an alien citizenship or evidence that you will be admitted to alien citizenship.
Visa Requirements for Serbian Citizens
As of 2023, Serbian citizens have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 138 countries and territories, ranking the Serbian passport 38th overall in terms of travel freedom.
Cost of Living in Serbia
One of the main attractions of Serbia is its low cost of living. Compared to Western European countries and the USA, expenses in Serbia are significantly lower.
Accommodation
Rent prices vary depending on the city and location. In Belgrade, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between €300 and €600 per month, while outside the center, it can be €100 to €200 less. In smaller cities, rent is even more affordable.
Utilities
Utilities, including electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection, can cost around €150 to €200 per month for an 85m2 apartment. Internet and mobile phone plans are also relatively inexpensive.
Food
Food costs in Serbia are quite reasonable. You can find affordable groceries at local markets and supermarkets. Eating out is also relatively inexpensive, with meals at inexpensive restaurants costing around €8.
Transportation
Public transportation in Serbia is affordable and efficient. A monthly pass for public transport can cost around €20. Taxis are also readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Cost of Living Comparison
To illustrate the affordability of living in Serbia, here's a table comparing the cost of living in Belgrade with other major cities:
Item | Belgrade | New York | Toronto | London | Berlin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1-bedroom apartment (center) | €766.58 | €3,363.85 | €2,542.42 | €2,681.91 | €1,681.91 |
Utilities (85m2) | €157.98 | €197.71 | €137.29 | €218.35 | €249.01 |
Meal, inexpensive restaurant | €8.55 | €19.09 | €16.92 | €17.65 | €13.37 |
Monthly transport pass | €21.39 | €124.09 | €141.98 | €184.17 | €86.41 |
Healthcare in Serbia
Serbia has a universal healthcare system financed by compulsory health insurance contributions, which comprise 10.3% of payroll taxes. This system provides access to healthcare services for all citizens and permanent residents. The public system is burdened with long waiting times for specific services and interventions, which often invites nepotism and corruption. However, the private part of the healthcare market is easily accessible, quick, and efficient, though it may not be affordable for all.
Education in Serbia
Education in Serbia is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 15. Almost all children in Serbia attend secondary education. Higher education is also available at universities and colleges, with tuition fees that are generally lower than in many other European countries.
Job Market in Serbia
The job market in Serbia is growing, with opportunities in various sectors. Serbia is experiencing a decline in population, partially compensated by an increase in the number of foreigners.
In-demand sectors
Some of the most in-demand sectors in Serbia include:
- IT: The IT sector is booming, with a high demand for software developers, web developers, and cybersecurity experts.
- Healthcare: There is a growing need for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists in geriatric care.
- Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry is also expanding, with opportunities for skilled workers in various fields.
- Tourism: With its increasing popularity as a tourist destination, Serbia offers job opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector.
- Renewable Energy: Serbia is investing in renewable energy sources, creating jobs in this growing sector.
There is also a shortage of workers in certain professions, such as carpenters, electricians, hairdressers, welders, plumbers, builders, painters, and agricultural workers.
Salaries
Salaries in Serbia are generally lower than in Western European countries. However, the cost of living is also lower, making it possible to live comfortably on a smaller salary. The average monthly net salary in Serbia is around €900.
Here are some examples of average monthly salaries in Serbia:
- IT specialist: €4,000
- Teacher: €8,000 per year
- Medical worker: €11,000 per year
Work Permits
If you are a foreigner and want to work in Serbia, you will need to obtain a work permit. The process typically involves your employer applying for a work permit on your behalf.
Conclusion
Serbia offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a low-cost and fulfilling lifestyle in Europe. With its affordable living expenses, growing job market, and welcoming culture, it's an attractive destination for expats and those looking to relocate. There is no minimum investment amount for those seeking residency through investment, and there is no language requirement for permanent residency or citizenship. By understanding the various paths to residency and citizenship, as well as the requirements and procedures involved, you can make an informed decision about making Serbia your new home.
Lusine Sargsyan
Attorney
At a glance
Temporary residence: 1 year (renewable), based on employment, business, property, family, or study
Permanent residence: After 3 years of continuous temporary residence (reduced from 5 in 2023)
Citizenship by naturalization: 3 years of permanent residence (total ~6+ years from arrival)
Dual citizenship: Permitted for descent and marriage routes; not for standard naturalization
Passport strength: Ranked 32nd globally, 133+ countries visa-free or visa-on-arrival (2026)
Cost of living: €1,000–1,500/month for a single person; significantly lower than Western Europe
Serbia is one of Europe’s most affordable countries for those considering a new home abroad. With a growing economy, straightforward immigration pathways, and a cost of living that undercuts most of its European neighbors, Serbia offers genuine value for expats, remote workers, and investors alike.
This guide covers the main routes to temporary and permanent residency, citizenship requirements, cost of living, the job market, and practical considerations for foreign nationals planning a move to Serbia in 2026.
Temporary residence
If you plan to stay in Serbia for more than 90 days, you need a temporary residence permit (TRP). This permit is typically issued for one year and can be renewed. Temporary residence is the only path to permanent residence in Serbia.
Serbia recognizes several grounds for temporary residence, including employment, company formation or self-employment, real estate ownership, family reunification, education, scientific research, medical treatment, and humanitarian reasons.
Employment and the unified permit
If you have a job offer from a Serbian employer, you can apply for a TRP based on employment. Since February 2024, Serbia operates a unified permit system that combines the residence permit and work permit into a single biometric card. The unified permit is fully digital, applied for through the Ministry of Interior’s Foreigners’ Portal, and can be valid for up to three years (previously capped at one year). The statutory decision deadline is 15 days from a complete application.
Required documents generally include a valid passport, proof of qualifications (diploma or equivalent), the employer’s registration excerpt in Serbia, and proof of accommodation in Serbia.
Company formation and self-employment
Starting a business in Serbia is a common route for foreign nationals seeking residence. You can register a Serbian limited liability company (DOO) through the Agency for Business Registers (APR). As a company director or owner, you qualify for a temporary residence permit.
The registration process involves choosing a company name, preparing founding documents, opening a Serbian bank account, and submitting documents to the APR. There is no minimum investment amount required.
Real estate ownership
Foreigners can purchase residential and commercial property in Serbia under the reciprocity principle (satisfied for most EU, US, UK, and Canadian nationals). Property ownership is a valid basis for a temporary residence permit. Initial permits are issued for up to one year and are renewable.
Restrictions apply to agricultural land, undeveloped construction or forest plots (unless for business purposes), and properties in border or military zones.
Other grounds
Additional grounds for temporary residence include family reunification (if you have family members who are Serbian citizens or permanent residents), enrollment in a Serbian educational institution, scientific research or professional training, and medical treatment.
General requirements
Regardless of the specific ground, applicants generally need a valid passport, proof of the basis for their stay, evidence of financial means, health insurance, a registered address in Serbia, and an apostille or legalization on all foreign documents (with sworn translation into Serbian).
If you require a visa to enter Serbia, you must obtain a long-stay visa (Visa D) before arriving. Upon arrival, you must register your stay at the nearest police station within 24 hours.
Digital nomads and remote workers
Serbia does not currently have a dedicated digital nomad visa. Remote workers typically use the company formation route (registering a Serbian DOO and acting as director) or obtain employment through a Serbian entity. Some “talent” categories are pending by-laws following the February 2024 reforms, but no standalone remote work visa is available as of 2026.
For those considering alternatives, Armenia offers a dedicated digital nomad visa with a streamlined application process.
Permanent residence
Following the August 2023 reform of Serbia’s Law on Foreigners, the requirement for permanent residence was reduced from five years to three years of continuous temporary residence. This is the standard path to permanent residence for most foreign nationals.
During the three-year period, absences from Serbia are permitted up to a total of approximately 10 months, or a single absence of up to 6 months. The processing time for a permanent residence application is approximately 60 days.
Requirements
To qualify for permanent residence, you must hold a valid passport, demonstrate three years of continuous temporary residence, have a registered address in Serbia, show stable income or employment, maintain health insurance, provide a clean criminal record, and be in compliance with Serbian tax obligations.
Special cases
Certain individuals may qualify for permanent residence without completing the standard three-year period, including minors with a Serbian parent or a foreign parent who holds permanent residence, individuals who have made significant contributions to Serbia, and those granted permission to stay for humanitarian reasons.
Citizenship
Serbian citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, naturalization, or under international treaties.
Naturalization (standard route)
The standard path to citizenship requires at least three years of uninterrupted permanent residence before applying. Combined with the time needed for temporary and permanent residence, the practical total is approximately six or more years from first arrival in Serbia.
Requirements include being at least 18 years old, holding permanent residence, submitting a signed statement that you consider Serbia your country, demonstrating knowledge of the Serbian language and culture, and having a clean criminal record with financial self-sufficiency.
Citizenship by descent
If you have Serbian ancestry, you may qualify for citizenship by descent regardless of where you were born. This route does not require residency in Serbia, does not require knowledge of the Serbian language, and does not require renunciation of your current citizenship. You must be at least 18 years old and submit a statement that you consider Serbia your country. Ancestry can be documented through birth certificates, church records, or diaspora membership.
Citizenship by marriage
If you are married to a Serbian citizen, you can apply for citizenship after three or more years of marriage, provided you hold permanent residence and the marriage remains valid.
Dual citizenship
Serbia’s dual citizenship rules depend on how you acquire citizenship. If you obtain citizenship by descent or marriage, dual citizenship is permitted and you do not need to renounce your previous nationality. However, if you obtain citizenship through ordinary naturalization, dual citizenship is not permitted and you must renounce your prior citizenship before acquiring Serbian nationality.
Serbian passport
As of 2026, the Serbian passport ranks approximately 32nd globally, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 133 or more countries and territories. One notable advantage of the Serbian passport is its unique combination of visa-free access to the Schengen area, Russia, and China — a combination not commonly found among mid-tier passports.
For those exploring citizenship pathways in Armenia, it is worth comparing the passport strength and dual citizenship rules of each country.
Taxes for residents and expats
Serbia applies a flat 10% income tax on employment earnings. In addition to income tax, both employers and employees pay social contributions, which represent a significant portion of total labor costs. Non-residents are taxed only on income sourced within Serbia.
Property transfer tax is 2.5% for second-hand properties (new builds are subject to VAT instead). Annual property tax is approximately 0.4% of the taxable property value. Capital gains on real estate may be exempt after 10 years of ownership.
If you are comparing tax regimes, Armenia’s tax system offers different advantages worth evaluating alongside Serbia’s.
Real estate and property purchase
Foreigners can buy residential and commercial property in Serbia under the reciprocity principle. No residence permit is required to purchase property. The typical purchase process involves a lawyer conducting a title check, obtaining a PIB (Serbian tax ID, which takes one to two days), signing a pre-contract with a 10% deposit, executing a notarial sale-purchase contract, and registering the property with the cadastre (which takes one to three months).
Total buyer transaction costs typically run 6–8% above the purchase price, including the 2.5% transfer tax, lawyer fees (€500–1,500), notary fees (~0.1–0.5%), and agency fees (2–4%).
As of 2026, average property prices in Belgrade are approximately €2,600–3,000 per square meter, with central districts (Stari Grad, Vračar, Dorćol) reaching €2,700–3,300 per square meter. Across Serbia overall, prices range from €1,700–2,100 per square meter.
For comparison, Armenia’s real estate market offers its own set of investment opportunities with different price dynamics.
Banking for foreigners
Non-residents can open bank accounts in Serbia. The standard requirements include a PIB (tax ID), a valid passport, proof of address, and documentation of the source of funds. Property purchases can also be completed from foreign bank accounts if both parties are non-residents, so a local account is not strictly required for a real estate transaction.
If you need assistance setting up banking in Armenia as part of a multi-jurisdiction strategy, we can help with that as well.
Cost of living
Serbia remains one of the most affordable countries in Europe for daily living. A single expat can expect to spend approximately €1,000–1,300 per month for a modest lifestyle, or €1,300–1,700 for a more comfortable, centrally located setup in Belgrade. A family of four (excluding international school fees) should budget approximately €2,300–3,000 or more per month.
Accommodation
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central Belgrade (Stari Grad, Vračar, Dorćol) runs approximately €550–800 per month, with the 2025 average around €759. Outside the center, expect €300–550 per month. In smaller Serbian cities, rent is considerably lower.
Utilities, food, and transport
Monthly utilities for a one-bedroom apartment (40–60 square meters) cost approximately €80–150. Fiber internet is available for €10–20 per month. Groceries run approximately €250–350 per month. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs €6–10, while a mid-range restaurant meal is €12–20 per person. A monthly public transport pass costs approximately €35–40 (around 4,200 RSD).
Healthcare
Serbia has a universal healthcare system financed by compulsory health insurance contributions. All legal residents are covered through the Health Insurance Fund (HIF). The public system can have long waiting times for certain procedures, and many expats choose to supplement with private healthcare, which is readily available and considerably cheaper than in Western Europe.
International schools in Belgrade charge mid-four to low-five figure EUR amounts per year for tuition.
Job market and salaries
Serbia’s job market continues to grow, with particular demand in IT, healthcare, manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy. There is also a shortage of skilled tradespeople in fields such as carpentry, electrical work, welding, and plumbing.
As of early 2026, the national average net salary is approximately €990 per month (Belgrade average: around the same range). IT sector salaries in Belgrade typically range from €1,000–1,700 per month net. Public school teachers earn approximately €900 per month (with a 5.1% increase effective January 2026), while doctors earn approximately €850–1,200 per month and nurses €550–680 per month.
If you are a foreign national seeking to work in Serbia, you will need a work permit (now integrated into the unified permit system for most cases). Your employer typically handles the application process on your behalf.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get permanent residence in Serbia?
Can foreigners buy property in Serbia?
Does Serbia allow dual citizenship?
Is there a digital nomad visa for Serbia?
How much does it cost to live in Belgrade?
What taxes do residents pay in Serbia?
Serbia offers a practical and affordable path for those seeking residency or citizenship in Europe. Whether your interest is in property investment, starting a business, or simply finding a lower-cost base in the region, the combination of reasonable requirements and a competitive cost of living makes it a destination worth serious consideration. For help comparing Serbia with Armenia’s residence-by-investment options or structuring a multi-jurisdiction strategy, reach out to our team.
