Why Serbia’s Visa & Residency Regime Makes It Ideal for Expats
TL;DR: Serbia offers flexible visa‑entry options (up to 90 or 180 days), streamlined paths for freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and business founders. Whether you’re applying for a C‑visa, D‑visa, or a residence permit, Serbia combines low friction, clear documentation, and attractive long‑term options.
Step 1: Entry – Understanding Serbian Visas
Step 1: Entry – Understanding Serbian Visas
Short-Stay C‑Visa (up to 90 days / 180-day period)
Valid for tourism, business visits, conferences, entered once or multiple times within 90 days in a 180‑day window.
Requires:
Completed application & 3.5 × 4.5 cm photo
Valid passport (≥ 90 days beyond stay, ≤ 10 years issue date)
Invitation letter or travel proof, health insurance, proof of funds. lawyersserbia.com+
Quick tip: U.S., Schengen, U.K. passport holders enter visa-free for short stays.
visa-digital-nomad.com
Long-Stay D‑Visa (90–180 days)
Required if you plan to work, study, unite with family, or apply for a residence permit.
.Additional documents:
Proof of purpose (e.g., employment or business registration)
Health insurance, criminal record, proof of accommodation/funds
Step 2: Applying for Temporary Residence & Work Permit
Step 2: Applying for Temporary Residence & Work Permit
Once in Serbia on a D‑visa, eligible candidates apply for a single permit (temporary residence + work authorization).
Who qualifies?
Employees with a valid Serbian employment contract
Self-employed / business founders (sole proprietors or DOO) lawyersserbia.com+15
Freelancers / remote workers (digital nomads) with proof of stable foreign income
Intra‑company transfers, interns, volunteers, journalists—specific categories allowed
Key requirements:
Valid passport and recent photo
Employment or business registration documents
Health insurance covering your stay
Criminal record certificate
Proof of funds and accommodation welcometoserbia.org+1
Fees Overview:
D‑visa: €100–€173 depending on category
Arbeids permit fee: ~€100 (RSD 12,530)
pmadvokatiPermit fee: ~€150–185 EBIT
Processing Time:
D‑visa: ~2–4 weeks
Temporary residence/work permit: ~30–60 days after application submission
Step 3: Residency via Entrepreneurship / Company Formation
Step 3: Residency via Entrepreneurship / Company Formation
Founder or investor? Serbia’s business visa route offers a dual benefit—legal stay and access to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem .
Why this route works:
No minimum investment capital required
Permits based on self-employment or directorship
Access to unified permit (residence + work) through company registration
Valid for up to 3 years, renewable, leading to permanent residency after 5 years globalcitizensolutions.com
Step 4: Living & Working in Serbia
Step 4: Living & Working in Serbia
Once approved, holders can stay up to 3 years, with free travel across the Schengen area zone entry for business trips.
Maintain legal purpose, health insurance, and stay over 183 days/year for renewal eligibility .
After 5 years of continuous stay (or 3 if married to a Serbian), you’re eligible for permanent residency, then citizenship
Summary Table
Summary Table
| Visa/Permit | Duration | Use Case | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| C‑Visa / Visa‑Free Entry | 90 days / 180d | Tourism, business visits only | Passport, invitation, funds |
| D‑Visa (Long Stay) | 90–180 days | Work, study, biz, residency application | Passport, invitation, insurance, criminal record |
| Temporary Residence + Work Permit | Up to 3 years | Legal employment/self-employment | Work contract or biz registration |
| Permanent Residency | After 5 years | Long-term legal residence + benefits | Continuous stay, legal compliance |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Serbia?
Depends on nationality. U.S., E.U., U.K. passport holders can stay visa-free up to 90 days per 180 days. Others will need a C or D visa
How long until I get Serbian citizenship?
After 5 years of continuous temporary residence (or 3 if married to a Serbian citizen) .
Can I work while on a Tourist or C‑Visa?
No. Work activities require a D‑visa + temporary residence + work permit .
How much does the residence permit cost?
D‑visa fees vary from €100–173. Work permit ~€100. Residence permit application ~€150–185.
How Relocation Serbia Simplifies Your Move?
How Relocation Serbia Simplifies Your Move?
At Relocation Serbia, we provide 360° relocation support, including:
Personalized visa & residence planning
Professional business & freelance registration
Handling all documentation, consulate liaison, and applications
Ongoing renewal assistance and legal compliance
Help with family, banking, and settling-in services
In short: We remove the friction so you can focus on growth, not red tape.