The Serbian banking system is composed of both domestic and international banks, including institutions from the EU, Turkey, Russia, China, and the UAE. This diversity offers clients the flexibility to choose banks that best suit their needs. Standard services such as e-banking, mobile banking, and debit cards are widely available. Additionally, many banks offer foreign currency accounts and multi-currency packages, accommodating the needs of international clients.

Banca Intesa

Part of the Intesa Sanpaolo group, Banca Intesa has been operating in Serbia for over 17 years. With 147 branches across nearly 100 cities, it offers various payment account packages, including the Basic account, Intesa Hit, Intesa Hit Plus, and Magnifica. Some packages provide benefits like an American Express Blue credit card and euro accounts free of charge. Certain packages also include health insurance for clients and their families.

Raiffeisen Banka

An Austrian bank with a significant presence in Serbia, Raiffeisen Banka offers a comprehensive range of financial solutions for both personal and business clients. Known for its robust customer service and extensive branch network, it caters to a wide array of banking needs.

Erste Bank

Headquartered in Novi Sad, Erste Bank is another Austrian institution with a strong foothold in Serbia. It is recognized for its customer-centric approach and a variety of financial products designed to meet diverse client requirements.

UniCredit Bank Serbia

As a member of the Italian UniCredit Group, this bank is well-regarded for its extensive range of services, including personal banking, corporate banking, and investment solutions. Its widespread branch network ensures accessibility for clients across the country.

OTP Banka Srbija

Originating from Hungary, OTP Banka has a substantial presence in Serbia, offering competitive rates and services tailored to various banking needs. Its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction makes it a preferred choice for many clients.

Domestic Banks

Banka Poštanska štedionica

Known for its extensive branch network, Banka Poštanska štedionica provides a range of services suitable for both locals and expats. Its long-standing presence in the Serbian banking sector underscores its reliability and commitment to customer service.

Mirabank

Mirabank is recognized for its personalized customer service and diverse banking products. It offers tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients, making it a notable player in the domestic banking landscape.

When selecting a bank for personal accounts or savings in Serbia, consider the following options:

• Banca Intesa Serbia: Offers competitive interest rates on savings accounts, typically around 3-4% in Serbian dinars (RSD), with slightly lower rates for EUR and USD accounts.
  
  

• Raiffeisen Bank Serbia: Known for its customer-focused services and attractive savings account rates.
  
  

• UniCredit Bank Serbia: Provides a range of savings products with favorable interest rates.
  
  

• NLB Komercijalna banka: Offers various savings accounts and financial products to suit different client needs.
  
  

• Erste Bank Serbia: Provides solid savings options with competitive rates, catering to a broad clientele.
  
  

• OTP Banka Serbia: Known for its strong financial services and diverse savings account options.

For those considering international relocation to Serbia, efficient money transfer services and the ability to link foreign accounts are crucial. Many banks, including Banca Intesa, Raiffeisen Banka, and UniCredit Bank Serbia, offer robust international money transfer services.

Bank Transfers (SWIFT)

• Pros: Secure and suitable for large amounts; funds are transferred directly to the recipient’s account.

• Cons: Relatively slow (2-5 business days), higher fees, and potentially less favorable exchange rates.
  
  

Online Money Transfer Services

• Examples: Wise, Revolut, PayPal, Western Union, MoneyGram, Remitly, WorldRemit.

• Pros: Competitive exchange rates, lower fees, faster transfer times (from a few minutes to a couple of days), and convenient online and app-based platforms.

• Cons: Limits on transfer amounts, availability varies by country, and additional verification steps may be required.
  
  

Cryptocurrency Transfers

• Pros: Lower fees compared to traditional bank transfers, fast transaction speeds (usually within minutes), and not restricted by banking hours or holidays.

• Cons: Requires knowledge of cryptocurrency wallets, price volatility, and varying levels of acceptance among financial institutions.
  
  

Understanding the banking options in Serbia is essential for managing your finances effectively, whether you're a local resident or an expat. By considering the services and features offered by these major banks, you can choose the institution that best aligns with your financial needs and goals.