Air Serbia Expands to Toronto: A New Era of Connectivity for Canadians Moving to Serbia

1. Eliminating the Layover Barrier

Until now, anyone flying from Canada to Serbia had to make at least one European stop—often in Frankfurt, Vienna, Amsterdam, or Zurich. That meant longer travel times, complex luggage transfers, and additional immigration checkpoints.

The reinstated direct connection between Toronto Pearson International Airport and Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport streamlines the journey dramatically. Travelers can now board in Canada and arrive in Serbia roughly ten hours later, rested and ready to begin their next chapter.

2. Reconnecting Communities and Families

Canada hosts one of the largest Serbian communities outside of Europe, particularly concentrated across Ontario. Many have long dreamed of a direct flight that would allow them to visit family or manage property in Serbia without the exhaustion of layovers.

For younger generations of Serbian-Canadians, the new route also symbolizes a bridge to rediscover their roots. It makes heritage travel, dual-citizenship appointments, and real-estate visits easier and more affordable.

3. Supporting Business and Investment Growth

Serbia has positioned itself as a competitive destination for entrepreneurs and corporations expanding into Eastern Europe. Lower taxes, skilled labor, and a stable currency have already drawn international investors from across the region.

For Canadian business owners exploring Serbia as a base for European operations—or for existing companies establishing Serbian subsidiaries—direct flights mean faster negotiations, smoother logistics, and more frequent on-site visits.

4. Boosting Tourism and Regional Accessibility

Air Serbia’s strategy extends beyond connecting two airports. Belgrade acts as a convenient jumping-off point for travelers heading to Novi Sad, Niš, Kopaonik, Zlatibor, or even neighboring countries like Montenegro, Greece, and Croatia.

The expansion of long-haul routes from Belgrade strengthens its position as a regional hub—one where Canadians can land, stay a few days, and then branch out to explore the Balkans.

1. From JAT to Air Serbia—A Historical Return

More than thirty years ago, JAT Yugoslav Airlines maintained a Toronto–Belgrade route that many Serbian families relied on. Political instability and sanctions in the early 1990s halted those operations.

Today’s revival under the Air Serbia banner signals how far the country has come in re-establishing its global presence. Modernized aircraft, upgraded service standards, and partnerships with major global airlines now allow Serbia to compete on the international aviation stage.

2. Gradual but Ambitious Growth

Air Serbia’s new route adds to its growing list of long-haul destinations, including New York, Chicago, and Shanghai. The airline has signaled interest in expanding further across North America—eyeing cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.

Rather than rush expansion, the company is testing demand carefully. Early projections suggest steady interest from both leisure and business travelers, especially among dual citizens and those considering permanent relocation.

3. Serbia as a Bridge Between East and West

Serbia’s geographic position—between Central Europe and the Middle East—makes Belgrade an ideal transfer point. Air Serbia’s goal is to attract passengers not only bound for Serbia itself but also for destinations throughout the region.

For Canadians exploring the European market, this network means fewer connections, simplified freight shipping, and growing commercial potential.

1. Simplified Travel Logistics

Relocation often means moving with children, pets, and entire households. A single, direct flight removes much of the stress that comes from airport transfers and misplaced luggage. Arriving refreshed in Belgrade lets newcomers begin their residency or business setup without delay.

2. Predictable Planning for Families and Shipping

Those shipping household goods or vehicles to Serbia can now coordinate their arrival schedules more precisely. Shipping containers from North America typically take several weeks by sea, so a predictable air route helps families time their arrival to coincide with deliveries.

3. Smoother Integration for Diaspora Returnees

Many Serbian-Canadians applying for citizenship by descent or reclaiming property will find the new connection especially useful. They can now attend embassy appointments, file documentation, or manage real-estate matters without multi-day travel disruptions.

4. Enhanced Mobility for Remote Professionals

A growing segment of digital nomads and remote workers are eyeing Serbia for its affordable cost of living and favorable tax environment. The direct Toronto–Belgrade route makes seasonal living between continents more feasible—spending summers in Serbia while maintaining business links in Canada.

1. Tourism Revenue and Hospitality Growth

Each direct flight brings hundreds of travelers who would otherwise bypass Serbia for better-connected European hubs. That influx supports hotels, restaurants, and regional attractions, stimulating the local economy.

2. Business and Trade Opportunities

Easier access also accelerates partnerships in technology, construction, agriculture, and finance. For Canadian firms interested in cost-effective European entry points, Serbia’s new air accessibility can be the missing logistical link.

3. Cultural Exchange and Education

Direct flights tend to deepen cultural ties. Universities and exchange programs can now attract more Canadian students, while Serbian students can reach North American institutions with fewer barriers. The renewed connection lays the groundwork for academic cooperation and tourism that benefits both nations.

1. Booking and Timing

Air Serbia’s Toronto–Belgrade route is expected to operate multiple times per week, adjusting based on seasonal demand. Travelers planning relocations should book early, especially during summer or holiday periods when both tourism and family visits peak.

2. Baggage and Pets

The airline’s policies are consistent with international standards, but relocating families should confirm pet travel requirements in advance. Serbia allows pet importation under specific vaccination and documentation rules, which your relocation consultant can help coordinate.

3. Visa and Residency Coordination

Canadian citizens can visit Serbia visa-free for up to ninety days, but those planning to relocate—whether for work, retirement, or investment—should initiate their residence permit applications well before arrival. Direct travel makes that timing easier to manage.

4. Arrival at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport

Belgrade’s main airport continues to undergo expansion, with new terminals, upgraded customs systems, and improved ground transport. Taxis, private transfers, and car-rental services are readily available for travelers continuing on to Novi Sad or other Serbian cities.

1. More Routes on the Horizon

Air Serbia’s steady growth since 2019—from 59 to 80+ destinations—illustrates the country’s renewed confidence. New seasonal routes to Mediterranean destinations like Florence, Mykonos, and Ibiza have already shown success.

2. Partnerships with Global Carriers

Through interline and codeshare agreements with airlines such as Air France, KLM, Etihad, and Turkish Airlines, passengers can connect seamlessly to dozens of international destinations from Belgrade. That means a traveler arriving from Toronto can reach nearly any European capital with one additional short flight.

3. Strategic Alignment with National Development

Improved air connectivity supports Serbia’s broader economic agenda—attracting foreign investment, promoting tourism, and encouraging diaspora return. The government views aviation not only as transportation but as national branding: Serbia as open, connected, and globally competitive.

1. Shorter Distance to Opportunity

Direct flights shrink psychological distance. What once felt like an ambitious relocation now feels attainable. Many North Americans exploring Serbia for its lifestyle advantages—flat tax rates, affordable housing, vibrant culture—can now make exploratory trips without the fatigue of multi-leg travel.

2. Better Integration for Businesses and Families

Whether you’re a Canadian entrepreneur seeking a European foothold or a family tracing ancestral roots, Serbia’s growing connectivity ensures smoother transitions. Relocation becomes a journey rather than an ordeal.

3. Long-Term Potential

If initial performance remains strong, analysts expect more North American routes to follow—possibly linking Serbia with additional Canadian and U.S. cities. That expansion would further reduce barriers for families and investors considering long-term relocation.

The reopening of the Toronto–Belgrade route marks far more than a return of a flight. It symbolizes reconnection—between people, economies, and opportunities.

For the Serbian diaspora, it renews a direct link home. For Canadians exploring relocation, it offers an easier entry into one of Europe’s most dynamic, affordable, and welcoming nations.

Air Serbia’s expansion reflects a confident, forward-looking Serbia—one that invites visitors, entrepreneurs, and returnees alike to discover what many already have: a place where life and opportunity intersect.

If you are planning to relocate, invest, or obtain Serbian citizenship, Relocation Serbia can guide you through every step—from residency and citizenship applications to real estate and logistics.
Book your paid consultation today and let our team make your move to Serbia seamless.