Why Serbia is a Rising Hub for Digital Nomads
TL;DR: Serbia is quickly emerging as one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for digital nomads. With fast Wi-Fi, low living costs, a welcoming visa policy, and a dynamic expat scene in cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, Serbia offers everything remote workers need to thrive—without the price tag or red tape of the Schengen zone.

Is Serbia the Next Digital Nomad Hotspot?
Is Serbia the Next Digital Nomad Hotspot?
Yes—and it’s growing fast. Serbia has all the ingredients remote workers look for: affordability, reliable infrastructure, flexible visa rules, vibrant culture, and a low barrier to entry. While places like Lisbon, Bali, or Tbilisi get the buzz, Serbia is quietly becoming the smart nomad’s choice.
From coworking hubs in Belgrade to nature escapes in the south, it’s no wonder digital workers are ditching overpriced Western cities for Serbia’s balance of comfort and cost.
What Makes Serbia Ideal for Digital Nomads?
What Makes Serbia Ideal for Digital Nomads?
1. Affordable Living, High Quality of Life
City | Avg Rent (1BR, City Center) | Coffee | Meal Out |
---|---|---|---|
Belgrade | €450 | €1.50 | €8 |
Novi Sad | €350 | €1.20 | €7 |
Niš | €300 | €1.00 | €6 |
Serbia offers big-city infrastructure at small-town prices.
2. Fast, Reliable Internet
Average broadband speed: 80–100 Mbps in major cities
5G rollout underway
Coworking spaces and cafés are everywhere
"I’ve had better Zoom calls in Belgrade than in Berlin." — Elena, UX designer from Spain
3. No Schengen Limits
U.S., Canadian, Australian, and many EU passport holders can stay in Serbia up to 90 days without a visa. Serbia also isn’t in the Schengen zone—meaning you can reset your European travel clock here.
4. Warm Community and Nomad-Friendly Cities
Belgrade: Urban, energetic, artsy
Novi Sad: Laid-back, culturally rich, UNESCO Creative City
Niš: Affordable and off-the-beaten path
You’ll find:
Coworking spaces like Smart Office, Nova Iskra, and Startit
Meetups, language exchanges, and tech events
Cafés with charging outlets and extended hours
5. Welcoming Residency Options
If you want to stay longer than 90 days:
Apply for temporary residence based on freelance work or business setup
Launch a Serbian DOO company (limited liability company)
Bring family or dependents with ease
Serbia’s immigration laws are more flexible than most of Europe—making it easier to stay long-term as a freelancer or entrepreneur.
6. Strategic Location in Europe
Hop on a bus or short flight to:
Budapest in 4 hours
Vienna in 6 hours
Istanbul, Berlin, or Athens in under 2 hours by air
Common Questions from Digital Nomads
Do I need a visa to work remotely from Serbia?
Not for the first 90 days if you're from a visa-free country. For longer stays, apply for temporary residence.
Are there coworking spaces and communities?
Absolutely. Belgrade and Novi Sad both have thriving coworking scenes and English-speaking communities.
Can I set up a business as a foreigner?
Yes. You can open a DOO company or register as a freelancer. Corporate tax is only 15%.
Is Serbia safe for solo travelers?
Yes. It ranks higher in peace and terrorism indexes than the U.S. and Canada.
A Real-Life Nomad’s Experience
A Real-Life Nomad’s Experience
Jasmine, a web developer from Australia, moved to Belgrade for 3 months in 2023 and ended up staying over a year. Here’s why:
She paid under €400/month for a central apartment
Joined a vibrant coworking space with fast internet and free espresso
Applied for temporary residence through Relocation Serbia
Built a network of freelancers from 10+ countries
"I never expected to fall in love with Serbia. It’s affordable, vibrant, and full of opportunities."
How Relocation Serbia Helps Digital Nomads
How Relocation Serbia Helps Digital Nomads
🔹 Temporary residence permits for freelancers and remote workers
🔹 Company formation (DOO setup) for entrepreneurs
🔹 Bank account assistance and local address registration
🔹 Housing help in Belgrade, Novi Sad, and beyond
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Serbia may not be the first country that comes to mind for digital nomads—but it should be. With visa-free entry, affordable European living, and a rising remote work culture, Serbia is quickly becoming the smart choice for location-independent professionals.
Don’t wait for the crowds. Discover Serbia while it’s still under the radar.
📩 Contact Relocation Serbia for help with permits, housing, and setting up your digital life in the Balkans.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay in Serbia while working for a U.S. company remotely?
Yes. Many digital nomads do this while on tourist or temporary residence status.
How much money do I need monthly to live well in Serbia?
Around €1,200/month for a single person in Belgrade; less in smaller cities.
Does Serbia have a digital nomad visa?
Not yet, but temporary residence options are flexible and suitable for remote workers.
Can I bring my partner or family?
Yes. Dependents can be added to your residence application.