Top 8 business opportunities in Serbia for foreigners in 2025
Starting a business is one of the most effective ways to gain Serbian temporary residence — but not every industry suits a foreigner, and your business must be genuinely active and matched to your skills. This guide breaks down eight of the most promising and underserved opportunities, from tech and tourism to construction and property management, based on Relocation Serbia's on-the-ground experience.
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Business opportunities in Serbia, on YouTube
Why start a business in Serbia?
Serbia offers one of Europe's more accessible residency pathways through business formation. Register as an entrepreneur (preduzetnik) or an LLC (d.o.o.), and you can apply for temporary residence and operate legally.
The catch: your business must be active and aligned with your skills. Authorities may require proof — diplomas, work experience, or certifications — to approve your business and renew your residency. A dormant "paper" company is a fast route to a denied renewal.
Eight opportunities worth a closer look
Information technology & startups
Serbia has a fast-growing tech ecosystem centred on Belgrade and Novi Sad, with a deep engineering talent pool and steady venture interest. Demand is high for IT professionals and the support services around them:
- digital marketing
- UX/UI design
- sales development
- startup consulting
Tourism & hospitality
Serbia has seen strong tourism growth in recent years, and Expo 2027 in Belgrade is expected to accelerate it further. Promising niches:
- eco-tourism and glamping
- boutique hotels
- wine and spa retreats
| Zlatibor & Kopaonik | Mountain escapes & ski tourism |
| Vrnjačka Banja | Wellness tourism |
| Fruška Gora | Wine region & nature retreats |
Renewable energy & sustainability
The government supports solar, wind, and hydro through subsidies and tax incentives. Good fits:
- retirees or digital nomads setting up off-grid homes
- entrepreneurs skilled in green-tech installation
- companies offering energy audits or efficiency upgrades
E-commerce & logistics
Serbia's e-commerce market is growing fast but still underdeveloped, leaving room for stronger local online-retail experiences. Its Balkan location is a genuine logistics advantage between Eastern and Western Europe. Ideal for:
- dropshipping businesses
- fulfilment and warehousing services
- product sourcing or white-labelling from Serbia
Education & language training
Strong demand from two directions — expats seeking international schools (options in Novi Sad are still limited) and locals wanting English and tech training. Business ideas:
- international schools at more accessible price points (current fees run around €10,000/year per child)
- EdTech platforms for global learning
- vocational training in trades or digital skills
Health, wellness & fitness
Rapid growth in gyms and boutique studios, health-food and supplement shops, and retreats that combine wellness with tourism. Great for:
- nutritionists
- fitness coaches
- yoga and wellness retreat founders
Construction services
High demand for general contractors, renovators, and skilled trades (plumbers, electricians, masons). Serbia has few cookie-cutter homebuilders — most projects are custom, and many of our clients buying property need reliable crews.
Property management
An underserved, near-empty market. Expats need cleaners, landscapers, repair services, check-ins while abroad, and office upkeep. Even some building management is neglected locally — leaving room for a serious, professional operator to compete.
Tax at a glance for foreign business owners
| Tax type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Corporate tax | 15% |
| VAT (PDV) | 20% (10% reduced) |
| Withholding tax | 20% (treaty relief may reduce) |
| Dividend tax | 15% (treaty relief may reduce) |
| Personal income | Flat 10% on salary (up to 20% on some income types) |
You may also be eligible for R&D tax credits, startup incentives, or employment grants. The right structure depends on your activity and home-country obligations — see our international tax advisory.
Have an idea and want to know if it qualifies for residency?
Book a consultation →How Relocation Serbia can help
We offer full-service support for foreigners launching a business in Serbia:
- legal business formation — entrepreneur or LLC
- tax planning for US citizens and others without a dual tax treaty
- market entry advice and connections to local professionals in your industry
- residency and work permit assistance
Frequently asked questions
- Belgrade: the capital — best for tech/startups, tourism, and services
- Novi Sad: quieter but growing — good for education, tourism, and expat services
- Rural towns: great for eco-tourism, glamping, wellness retreats, or off-grid energy
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Market opportunities, tax rates, incentive criteria, and residency requirements change and depend on your circumstances. Always obtain qualified professional advice before starting a business or relying on residency outcomes. Last reviewed: June 2026 · Relocation Serbia.
Build the right business in Serbia
We help foreigners choose a viable activity, form the right entity, plan tax, and secure residency — all aligned with your skills and goals. Book a consultation to get started.
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