Serbia

Moving to Serbia

The birthplace of many Roman emperors, including Constantine the Great, you are never too far from a mountain or a winding river in Serbia. Although landlocked, the country boasts of ancient mountain ranges, a rainforest, the second deepest river canyon (The Drina river canyon) in the west, and Europe’s largest gorge - the Đerdap gorge on the east of Serbia.

The capital city of Belgrade has a population of 1.5 million people, and is one of the oldest and continuously inhabited cities in Europe and the World. It also served as the capital of former Yugoslavia from its creation in 1918 to its dissolution in 2006.

The city has seen a tech, and digital nomad boom in recent years – According to some estimates, the tech accounts for at least six percent of Serbia’s GDP, while employing some 45,000 people. Since 2015, Serbian startups have raised over $500 million.

Serbia welcomes everyone, especially newcomers with a warm home with great hospitality. Its second biggest city Novi Sad has been named one of European capital of culture for 2022.

A destination which is steadily gaining popularity among digital nomads, a proposal to provide a one-year work visa for those with a gross monthly salary of more than 3,500 euros, is underway.

Living in Serbia

Living in Serbia as an expat can be a rewarding experience. The country has a lower cost of living compared to many other European countries, and it is a great place to experience authentic Eastern European culture. There are also many natural and cultural attractions to explore, such as the Danube River, the Carpathian Mountains, and the country's many historical and cultural landmarks.

That being said, there can be some challenges to living in Serbia as an expat. The country has a relatively low GDP compared to other European countries, and the infrastructure in some areas may not be as developed as in other parts of Europe. It can also be difficult for expats to find housing in some areas of the country, and the process of obtaining visas and work permits can be complex.

To enhance your overall experience and make your transition smoother, it is highly advisable to learn Serbian. Not only will this enable you to communicate and navigate daily life more effectively, but it will also foster deeper connections with the locals. Learning Serbian can be an immensely rewarding pursuit, opening doors to a richer cultural immersion and a more profound understanding of Serbia's heritage and way of life.

Moreover, Serbia offers the opportunity to obtain вид на жительство в сербии, granting an extended stay in the country and access to its numerous benefits. The application process is relatively straightforward, with various types of residence permits available to suit your specific purpose of stay. Additionally, Serbia boasts a favorable tax rate compared to other European nations, making it an appealing choice for expatriates.

Overall, living in Serbia as an expat can be a unique and rewarding experience for those who are willing to adapt to a new culture and way of life.

Top-Places to Live in Serbia

Some of the most popular places for expats to live in Serbia include the capital city of Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Nis.

Belgrade is the largest city in Serbia and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife. It is located on the Danube River and is home to many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, as well as a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Novi Sad is the second-largest city in Serbia and is located in the northern part of the country. It is known for its picturesque old town, which is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, as well as its cultural festivals, such as the EXIT music festival.

Nis is the third-largest city in Serbia and is located in the southeast of the country. It is known for its rich history and cultural attractions, such as the Nis Fortress and the Mediana Roman Villa.

Overall, the best place to live in Serbia will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It is a good idea to visit a few different cities and neighborhoods to get a feel for the different areas before making a decision.

Do I need a visa for Serbia?

Whether or not you need a visa to enter Serbia depends on your country of citizenship and the length of your stay.

Citizens of certain countries, including the European Union, the United States, Canada, and Australia, are allowed to enter Serbia for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business purposes. If you wish to stay in Serbia for a longer period of time or for other purposes, such as study or work, you will need to obtain a visa.

You can check the specific visa requirements for Serbia for your country of citizenship on the website of the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or on the website of the embassy or consulate of Serbia in your home country. It is recommended to check the visa requirements well in advance of your trip to make sure you have the necessary documents and to allow enough time to apply for a visa if necessary.

Visa and Immigration options for Serbia

There are several types of visas that allow you to live and work in Serbia. The specific type of visa you will need will depend on the purpose of your stay and the length of your stay. Some of the main types of visas for living and working in Serbia include:

Temporary residence permit: This type of visa allows you to live and work in Serbia for a period of up to one year. It can be renewed for additional periods of up to one year. To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will need to have a valid reason for your stay, such as work, study, or family reunification.

Permanent residence permit: This type of visa allows you to live and work in Serbia indefinitely. To be eligible for a permanent residence permit, you must have lived in Serbia continuously for at least five years on a temporary residence permit or have a permanent job offer in Serbia.

Work visa: This type of visa allows you to enter Serbia for the purpose of working for a specific employer. To apply for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Serbian employer and the employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf.

Study visa: This type of visa allows you to enter Serbia for the purpose of studying at a recognized educational institution. To apply for a study visa, you must be accepted into a study program at a Serbian educational institution and have proof of sufficient financial resources to support your studies.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining a visa to live and work in Serbia can be complex and may involve several steps. It is recommended to consult primary sources or a qualified immigration practitioner to get high-quality answers.

Working Remotely in Serbia

Serbia can be a good place for remote workers as it has a relatively low cost of living and a developed infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity. The country also has a skilled workforce and a favorable business climate, which can make it an attractive location for remote work.

That being said, there are a few things to consider before deciding to work remotely in Serbia. Depending on your country of citizenship, you may need to obtain a visa to live and work in Serbia, which can be a complex process. It is also important to consider the cost of living in different parts of the country, as it can vary significantly depending on the location.

Overall, Serbia can be a good place for remote work for those who are willing to adapt to a new culture and way of life. The international scene in Belgrade is likely the top-destination in Serbia for digital nomads and remote workers.

It is a good idea to research and consider the specific needs and requirements of your job and lifestyle before deciding to work remotely in Serbia.