5 Ways to Lose Your Permanent Residency in Serbia – And How to Avoid Them

While Serbia welcomes foreign residents, maintaining permanent residency comes with legal responsibilities. Committing serious crimes or engaging in activities that threaten national security can lead to immediate deportation.

What Constitutes a Serious Violation?

• Criminal Convictions: Felony-level offenses, organized crime involvement, or fraud.
• Threats to National Security: Actions that endanger public safety or engage in extremist activities.
• Repeat Legal Offenses: Even minor crimes, if repeated, can lead to expulsion.
  
  

How to Stay Compliant?

• Follow Serbian laws and respect local customs.
• Avoid risky associations—just because a Serbian citizen does something doesn’t mean a foreign resident can do the same.
• If facing legal issues, consult an experienced lawyer before making any statements to authorities.

Many expats assume that once they obtain permanent residency, they can leave Serbia for extended periods. However, Serbian law requires residents to spend a certain amount of time in the country to maintain their status.

Absence Rules for Permanent Residents

• Temporary Residency: You must spend at least 183 days per year in Serbia.
• Permanent Residency: Extended absences without notifying authorities can result in revocation.
  
  

If you need to leave Serbia for an extended period (e.g., family emergency, work assignment), it’s essential to inform the immigration office. In some cases, exceptions may be granted, but approval is at the discretion of Serbian authorities..

Submitting false documents or misleading information during your residency application is a serious offense that can result in permanent residency cancellation—even years after approval.

Examples of Fraudulent Practices

• Fake Business Registrations: Setting up a company in Serbia with no real operations just to obtain residency.
• Forged Documents: Presenting photoshopped paperwork or using false employment records.
• Undeclared Income or Money Laundering: Attempting to open a bank account in Serbia without proper documentation.
  
  

At Relocation Serbia, we ensure that all applications follow legal requirements. If you’re considering applying for residency, work with our experts to avoid costly mistakes that could jeopardize your status.

Serbia has strict policies regarding public disturbances, and authorities reserve the right to revoke residency if an individual is considered a threat to public order.

What Can Get You Deported?

• Participating in Protests & Civil Unrest: Expats actively involved in protests or political movements may be asked to leave.
  
  
• Disruptive Behavior: Consistent disregard for local laws or engaging in illegal activities.
  
  

While Serbia is generally welcoming to expats, the government prioritizes social stability. If you plan to stay long-term, it’s best to avoid situations that could draw negative attention from authorities.

In some cases, individuals may choose to renounce their Serbian residency voluntarily. This can happen if:

• You move to another country and obtain a new residency permit.
• You apply for Serbian citizenship and no longer need residency status.
• You fail to renew your residency permit on time.
  
  

If you wish to retain your Serbian residency, it’s crucial to renew your permit as required and notify authorities if you plan to be absent for extended periods.

Securing permanent residency in Serbia is a valuable legal status that provides expats with long-term security and benefits. However, maintaining it requires compliance with immigration laws.

How Relocation Serbia Can Help You

At Relocation Serbia, our team of legal advisors, immigration specialists, and business consultants ensures that you:

✅ Stay updated on residency regulations to avoid unexpected revocations.
✅ Receive expert guidance on renewing and maintaining your residency.
✅ Get legal support if facing residency-related issues.

If you're planning to move to Serbia or need help securing temporary or permanent residency, book a consultation with us today!

📩 Get a consultation today and learn how we can assist you with residency, business setup, and real estate investments in Serbia.

🚀 Visit us at RelocationSerbia.com to learn more!