Can Foreigners Be Expelled from Serbia? What Every Expat Needs to Know

What Does Residency in Serbia Entail?

Serbia offers both temporary and permanent residency to foreigners who meet certain legal, financial, and housing requirements. Many expats relocate for business, remote work, or personal reasons—and Serbia has become a hotspot for digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs alike.

Temporary vs Permanent Residency

• Temporary residency is typically valid for 6–12 months and must be renewed.

• Permanent residency may be granted after 5 continuous years of legal residence or through marriage, descent, or other qualifying means.

Resident vs Citizen: Key Differences

• Residents are legally allowed to live in Serbia but are still considered guests of the state.

• Citizens hold Serbian passports, can vote, and have access to full legal protections.

• Residency can be revoked. Citizenship is only revoked in extreme cases.

1. Russian Activists Facing Deportation

In a case that made headlines in April 2024, a group of Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian citizens residing in Serbia faced expulsion for participating in anti-government protests. Despite Serbia’s constitutional guarantees for free speech, Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin issued a stern warning: foreigners should not interfere in Serbian politics.

Even though there were no criminal charges, some residency permits were reportedly revoked.

2. Croatian Citizen Expelled After 12 Years

A Croatian national who had lived in Belgrade for over a decade was expelled for supporting student protests—both in person and on social media. Despite having valid temporary residency and a work permit, Serbian authorities gave her just 7 days to leave the country, banning her from returning for one year.

The reason cited? Her presence was deemed a "security risk" to the Republic of Serbia.

3. What Triggered These Actions?

• Public support for protests

• Political commentary on social media

• Association with activist groups
  
  

While these activities may be protected under free speech laws in some countries, they can jeopardize your residency in Serbia.

Serbian Constitution vs Foreigners’ Rights

While the Serbian Constitution guarantees freedom of thought and expression, these rights are primarily meant for citizens. As a resident (even permanent), you remain under discretionary scrutiny by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. 

Vulin’s Warning

“Foreigners who are guests in our country… should not interfere in politics of the country that has received them.” — Deputy PM Aleksandar Vulin

Residency is seen as hospitality, not a birthright.

What Triggers Deportation?

• Participating in political demonstrations

• Posting controversial political views online

• Associating with foreign-funded activist groups

• Being flagged as a “security risk” by internal authorities

You Are Still a Guest

Even if you’ve invested in real estate, started a business, or married a Serbian citizen—until you hold citizenship, you are not guaranteed immunity.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Problems:

• Assuming residency equals permanent protection

• Engaging in political activism

• Ignoring local cultural and legal sensitivities

How to Stay Compliant:

• Avoid participating in protests or political commentary

• Stay updated on local laws and administrative rules

• Keep your residency paperwork in order

Realistic Guidance from Day One

At Relocation Serbia, we don’t just help you file documents—we guide you with the cultural, legal, and political awareness needed to stay compliant.

We Advise Every Client:

• What you can and cannot do as a resident

• How to protect your residency and future citizenship

• What behaviors or associations may raise red flags

Support When Things Go Wrong

If your residency is ever at risk, we can:

• Connect you with vetted legal professionals

• Help you respond to Ministry inquiries

• Guide you through appeals or re-application processes

We can’t guarantee outcomes, but we can ensure you're not navigating it alone.

Serbia is an incredible place to live, but it’s essential to respect your status and know your limits as a foreigner. Residency is a privilege—not a right—and it can be revoked. If your goal is to one day gain Serbian citizenship and build a long-term life here, it's critical to act accordingly.

Need help securing or maintaining your Serbian residency the right way?

👉 Book your consultation now with our legal and relocation team to find the best solution for your citizenship and residency goals.