Citizenship Through Marriage: The Easiest Path to Serbian Citizenship

When exploring options for Serbian citizenship, one method often overlooked is citizenship through marriage. It’s one of the most straightforward ways to gain Serbian citizenship, yet it remains underutilized, especially by clients working with us at Relocation Serbia. Let’s dive into the requirements, processes, and key considerations for obtaining citizenship through marriage in Serbia.

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The Basics of Citizenship Through Marriage

To qualify for Serbian citizenship through marriage, you must:

  1. Legally marry a Serbian citizen – Common-law partnerships are not recognized for this purpose in Serbia. A valid marriage certificate issued by Serbian authorities is mandatory.
  2. Meet residency requirements – You’ll need at least three years of continuous temporary residency in Serbia before applying for permanent residency. After that, maintaining your permanent residency without extended absences is critical.
  3. Show integration into Serbian culture – This can include familiarity with the Serbian language, customs, and societal norms. In some cases, a language test may be required.
  4. Demonstrate good character – A clean criminal record is necessary, both in Serbia and your country of origin.

The Process: Step by Step


1. Residency Preparation

Begin with a temporary residence permit, which requires staying in Serbia for at least 183 days annually. After three years, you can apply for permanent residency, provided there are no significant gaps in your residency history.

2. Documentation

Collect and maintain all required documents, including:

  • Marriage certificate issued in Serbia
  • Residency permits (both temporary and permanent)
  • Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreements, etc.)
  • Your spouse’s valid Serbian ID, birth certificate, and proof of citizenship

Ensure all foreign documents are translated, notarized, and, in some cases, Apostilled by an approved translator in Serbia.

3.  Application Submission

Submit your application at the local police station or the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Be prepared for an interview, which may be conducted in Serbian, and background checks.

4. Approval and  Allegiance

The approval process can take several months or even over a year. Once approved, you’ll take an oath of allegiance, finalizing your citizenship.

Challenges and Important Notes

  • Residency Gaps: Avoid prolonged absences from Serbia during your permanent residency, as these can lead to rejection.
  • Proof of Marriage: Authorities may investigate to confirm the authenticity of your marriage, including home visits and bank record reviews. This step aims to prevent fraudulent marriages.
  • Renunciation of Prior Citizenship: Depending on your situation, you may need to renounce your previous citizenship.

    • Why Choose Relocation Serbia?

    Navigating Serbia’s citizenship and residency processes can be complex. At Relocation Serbia, we offer comprehensive relocation services in Serbia, including Serbian legal services, real estate investment guidance, and moving assistance. From managing your Serbian residency application to ensuring all your documents are in order, we are here to help.

    Whether you’re moving for love, business, or retirement, our team of Serbia relocation experts will simplify your journey.