Open a Bank Account in Serbia as a Foreigner

Yes. Foreigners can open both personal and corporate accounts. Personal accounts are available to non-residents and residents alike, though required documents and account types vary by bank. Most banks require a valid passport and proof of residence — Serbian or foreign. We arrange the appointment, prepare the documentation, and accompany you to help the appointment go smoothly.

Not always. Some banks open accounts for non-residents with a valid foreign passport and proof of foreign address. Serbian temporary residency significantly broadens your options and simplifies the documentation. The banks willing to open for non-residents — and their conditions — change periodically, so we advise on the current situation for your nationality before booking.

In recent cases 5–10 business days from the appointment to activation has been typical for a personal account, and 7–14 business days for a corporate account because of AML checks. The bank sets the timing and we don't promise a date. The appointment itself usually runs 45–90 minutes. We prepare all documents in advance to minimise delays.

Raiffeisen Bank Serbia is generally the most recommended — strongest English-language support, a well-developed online platform, and broad international experience. Banca Intesa is a strong alternative with a large branch network. The best choice depends on your nationality, residency status, and needs, and bank policies change periodically, so we advise on the current optimal bank on the call.

Serbian banks offer genuine multi-currency accounts. You can hold RSD, EUR, USD, GBP, and CHF in a single account; CAD and AUD are available at specific banks. This lets you receive foreign income, pay local bills in RSD, and hold savings in your preferred currency without mandatory conversion.

Yes. All major Serbian banks offer online and mobile banking — manage the account, make local and international transfers, view statements, and pay bills from anywhere. With Serbia now on SEPA, euro transfers to and from SEPA countries clear in about one business day. We factor transfer ease and cost into our bank recommendation for clients who move money cross-border regularly.

Deposits are insured up to €50,000 per depositor per bank by the Deposit Insurance Agency of Serbia, covering natural persons, entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium-sized companies (large companies are not covered), and both dinar and foreign-currency balances. The limit applies per bank, so accounts at two different banks give €100,000 of total protection. A draft law published in May 2026 proposes €100,000 after EU accession; it is not in force.