Are you considering a move to Europe? Serbia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreigners looking for affordable living, business opportunities, and a path to long-term residency. Whether you’re interested in investing in property, starting a company, or working legally, Serbia offers accessible and clear immigration pathways for non-EU citizens.
At Global Consultants, we help individuals and families successfully navigate the Serbian immigration process with step-by-step guidance—from your first visa check to permanent residency.
Here’s how to begin your journey to living in Serbia.
Step 1: Check If You Need a Visa to Enter Serbia
Before planning your move, the first step is to verify your visa requirements based on your nationality. Serbia allows visa-free entry for citizens of several countries, while others require a short-term (Type C) visa to enter.
Who Doesn’t Need a Visa?
Citizens of the following regions can stay in Serbia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa:
- European Union countries
- UK, USA, Canada
- Australia, New Zealand
- UAE, Turkey, and several Asian and South American countries
If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a visa before arrival.
Global Consultants can help you determine your eligibility and prepare your visa application accordingly.
Step 2: Apply for Temporary Residence in Serbia
Once you enter Serbia, your next step is to apply for temporary residence. This is necessary for anyone who plans to stay in Serbia for more than 90 days.
Ways to Qualify for Temporary Residence:
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Real Estate Investment:
Buying property in Serbia (even modest apartments or houses) can be used as a basis for a residence permit. There is no minimum investment threshold, making this option attractive and affordable. -
Employment in Serbia:
If you receive a job offer from a Serbian employer, you can apply for a residence permit based on legal employment. This also requires a work permit, which we assist you in obtaining. -
Starting a Business:
Serbia encourages foreign entrepreneurship. You can register a local company (DOO – similar to LLC) and apply for a residence permit as the company’s founder or director. -
Family Reunification:
Spouses and children of current Serbian residents can apply to join their family members through this category. -
Studying in Serbia:
Students enrolled in accredited Serbian institutions can apply for a residence permit for the duration of their studies.
Validity:
Temporary residence is generally granted for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal each year as long as your basis for stay remains valid.
Step 3: Collect Your Residence Permit and Begin Your New Life
Once your application is approved by the Serbian Ministry of Interior, you’ll be issued a residence card that proves your legal right to live in the country.
With this card, you can:
- Open a bank account
- Rent or buy property
- Sign utility contracts
- Register a vehicle
- Travel freely in and out of Serbia
The process typically takes 30 to 60 days, and we ensure your documents are prepared and submitted correctly to avoid delays.
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residency After 3 Years
After maintaining three continuous years of legal temporary residence in Serbia, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Benefits of Permanent Residence:
- No need to renew residence annually
- Full access to healthcare and social benefits
- Ability to stay in Serbia indefinitely
- A pathway to Serbian citizenship after five years of residency (subject to additional requirements)
At Global Consultants, we help you transition from temporary to permanent residency, ensuring your file meets all legal and procedural requirements.
Why Serbia? Key Reasons to Choose Serbia as Your New Home
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Low Cost of Living:
Compared to Western Europe, Serbia offers a highly affordable lifestyle without compromising on quality or comfort. -
Open Investment Environment:
Foreigners can fully own real estate or businesses, with low tax rates and access to European markets. -
Strategic Location:
Located in Southeast Europe, Serbia offers excellent connections to the EU and non-EU countries alike. -
Easy Residency Pathways:
With minimal bureaucratic hurdles and flexible criteria, Serbia is one of the easiest European countries for non-EU citizens to obtain legal residence. -
No Language Barrier for Expats:
While Serbian is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism sectors.
How Global Consultants Can Help You Move to Serbia
We offer end-to-end support for individuals, couples, families, and entrepreneurs who wish to live legally in Serbia.
Our Services Include:
- Visa eligibility check and application assistance
- Guidance on property purchase and legal documentation
- Business registration and residence permit application
- Employment visa support and job matching
- Temporary and permanent residence filings
- Legal translation and notary support
- Ongoing compliance and annual renewals
Our team is experienced in handling both simple and complex cases. Whether you’re looking to retire in Serbia, start a business, or relocate with your family, we are your trusted partner every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your Serbian Residency Journey?
Serbia offers a unique blend of lifestyle, opportunity, and long-term immigration potential. With low costs, simple legal requirements, and a clear path to permanent residency, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to live in Europe without the challenges of traditional immigration routes.
Let Global Consultants help you make the move with confidence.
