How can foreigners obtain residency and citizenship in Serbia?

General information about Serbia

In light of current information about migration processes and visa regulations, the Republic of Serbia, located in the heart of the Balkan region, deserves special attention. This landlocked country, which is not part of the Schengen zone or the European Union, has been actively seeking EU membership since 2012 and is a full member of international organizations such as the UN and the World Trade Organization. Serbia shares borders with several countries:

• to the north - Hungary;
• To the east are Romania and Bulgaria;
• in the south - Macedonia;
• to the southwest - Albania and Montenegro;
• In the west - Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia.

Statistics and popularity of the country

Serbia has a population of about 6.8 million residents. Notably, in 2021, the country was visited by 2.6 million tourists, which is an increase of 29.8% compared to 2020. It is also worth mentioning that the number of foreign citizens visiting Serbia nearly doubled, rising from 445,000 in 2020 to 870,000 in 2021. The main tourist flows came from:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina;
• Russia;
• Montenegro;
• Germany;
• Macedonia.

Foreigners in Serbia

Currently, there are about 30,000 foreigners living in Serbia who have obtained permits for temporary or permanent residence. Among them, the largest groups are citizens of China, Russia, and residents of neighboring Balkan countries such as Romania and North Macedonia.

Visa regime for different countries

As for the visa regime, citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan do not need to obtain a visa for short-term tourist trips. The visa-free regime allows them to stay in Serbian territory for up to 30 days. However, there are some specific details:

• Ukrainians can stay in Serbia without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Belarusians and Kazakhs can stay in the country for only 30 days within a two-month period.
• Russians can visit Serbia without a visa; however, their stay is limited to 30 days per year.

For citizens of the Russian Federation, there is what is called“visa run”If you cross the border of Serbia by traveling to a neighboring country, such as Montenegro or North Macedonia, it resets the visa duration, allowing travelers the opportunity to re-enter Serbia.

Moreover, there are certain benefits for those who hold valid Schengen, UK, or US visas. This allows them to stay in Serbia without additional visa formalities, but for no more than 90 days within a six-month period.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

The system for obtaining a residence permit in Serbia includes several nuances and is based on various criteria. The main grounds for obtaining a residence permit are:

• work;
• studies
• reunion with loved ones.

To obtain this permit, it is necessary to gather and submit a number of documents, such as an application, passport, photographs, and other certificates.

Regulation of the obtaining process

The procedure for obtaining a temporary or permanent residence permit, as well as citizenship in Serbia, is strictly regulated. This process can often take a long time, so it is crucial to be prepared for the various stages of application submission and review, as well as for possible rejections that may be due to insufficient documentation or non-compliance with the stated criteria.

Financial aspects of obtaining residence permits

The cost of obtaining residence permits is a variable amount and depends on the type of permit and its duration. Foreigners who wish to obtain a residence permit should consider all these aspects before making a final decision about moving to Serbia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Serbia is a country with unique opportunities for foreigners planning to live, work, or study outside their homeland. However, it is important to carefully analyze all the nuances of the migration process to avoid negative situations and make the most of the benefits that residency in this country offers.

Documents for crossing the border of Serbia

In order for tourists to cross the border into Serbia, they need to gather a specific set of documents. First and foremost, an important requirement is having a valid passport, which must be valid for at least three months from the date of the intended trip. It is also advisable to have a return ticket, which will serve as proof of your intention to return.

Confirmation of residence and financial means

In addition, travelers will need to provide either a hotel booking confirmation or a rental agreement for the entire duration of their stay in the country. It is also important to pay attention to financial requirements, specifically to confirm the availability of funds at the level of50 eurosfor each day of stay. Having medical insurance is also mandatory.

Vaccination and COVID-19 tests

It is important to keep in mind that entry into the country requires documents related to COVID-19 vaccination. You must be vaccinated with one of the following vaccines:

• two doses of Pfizer
• two doses of Sinopharm
• two doses of "Sputnik V"
• one dose of AstraZeneca

Those who have not been vaccinated need to present a negative PCR test result for coronavirus, taken no earlier than48 hoursbefore departure.

Traveling with children

If children are traveling, they must be listed in the foreign passport of one of the parents or have their own passports. In situations where only one parent is traveling with the child, a notarized consent from the other parent for the trip is required.

Registration upon arrival

It is important to remember that tourists who can enter Serbia without a visa must register with the local police within24 hoursafter arrival. This process includes obtaining a document called"white cardboard"which serves as confirmation of registration. Usually, this process is significantly simplified with the help provided by hotels or guesthouses. However, if tourists are staying in a rented apartment or with acquaintances, they will need to visit the police station on their own.

Conditions for extending stay

It is worth noting that if it is necessary to extend the stay in Serbia, which is30 daysTourists will have to leave the country and return again to obtain the "white card" each time anew. Although border control for the presence of this document is not a common occurrence when leaving the country, its absence can lead to fines. This document may also be required for real estate transactions or opening bank accounts.

Visa-free entry for Russian citizens

Citizens of Russia have the opportunity to stay in Serbia without a visa for up to30 daysand can make such trips an unlimited number of times throughout the year. For those planning to stay in the country longer30 daysFor the purpose of studying, working, conducting business, or a private visit, it is worth considering the option of applying for a short-term visa of type.CThis visa grants the right to stay in the country for up to90 dayswithin six months from the date of first entry. A short-term visa allows for multiple entries and can be valid for up to one year.

Long-term visa for residence in Serbia

For a long stay in Serbia, if you plan to stay in the country for90 to 180 daysI need to apply for a long-term visa type.DThis type of visa also grants foreigners the right to temporarily stay in the Republic of Serbia, especially if they intend to apply for a residence permit.

Necessary documents for obtaining a visa to Serbia

To obtain a visa at the Serbian embassy, you need to gather a specific set of documents. First and foremost, a valid passport is required, which must remain valid for at least three months after the visa is issued.

Invitation

The next important document is the invitation. Depending on the purpose of your visit, the format of this invitation may vary:

• To express a desire to visit friends or family, a letter certified by the appropriate authority in Serbia is required.
• for business trips – an invitation from a Serbian company;
• For tourists - a hotel booking confirmation or a voucher from a travel company.

Completed questionnaire and photographs

The list of required documents also includes a questionnaire filled out on a special form, as well as two photographs measuring 3.5 cm by 4.5 cm. Additionally, you must have tickets or documents confirming transportation reservations in both directions.

Road trip

If you are planning to travel by your own car, you will definitely need copies of your driver's license and insurance policy.

Confirmation of financial resources

Among other requirements, there is a need to confirm the availability of financial resources sufficient to cover living expenses in Serbia. Expect an amount of around50 euros a dayBank statements or traveler's checks can serve as confirmation. It also makes sense to bring a certificate from your workplace and medical insurance with a coverage amount of at least20 thousand eurosIt is important to remember that submitting documents is accompanied by a visa fee.

Additional documents for specific purposes

If your trip involves purposes other than a standard tourist visit, you may need to provide additional documents:

• Those who wish to reunite with their family will need to confirm their family ties with a citizen of Serbia.
• Employees need to prepare an employment contract.
• Students must provide a certificate from their educational institution.
• Property owners who want to obtain a visa are required to provide documents confirming their ownership, such as a purchase or donation agreement.
• Businessmen must present a permit to conduct their activities.

Visa processing time

The processing time for a visa usually ranges within15 daysfrom the moment all necessary documents are submitted. In rare situations, in the presence of special circumstances, this period may be extended to30 days.

Embassy of Serbia

The Embassy of the Republic of Serbia can be found in various countries, includingMoscow, Minsk, KyivandNur-Sultan.

Buying real estate and obtaining a visa

It is important to note that purchasing real estate in Serbia allows you to obtain a one-year visa, which can be renewed at each stage.five yearsThis right applies to close relatives, such as spouses, children, and parents, who can submit documents to obtain an annual visa for family reunification. However, such benefits are not available for friends or acquaintances. Property owners can register them at their address, but additional circumstances will be required for these individuals to obtain an annual visa, such as work, study, or conducting business activities in Serbia.

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The procedure for obtaining a residence permit in Serbia

The rules and conditions for obtaining a temporary residence permit in Serbia, known as "privremeni boravak," are governed by legislative acts concerning the rights of foreigners. The latest changes to these laws were made in 2018.

Reasons for obtaining a residence permit

Serbian government authorities outline several grounds that allow citizens of other countries to apply for a temporary residence permit. These grounds include:

• real estate purchase,
• business opening,
• employment
• training,
• reunion with family and marriage
• participation in volunteer projects,
• medical treatment and many others.

Real estate as a basis for obtaining a residence permit

Acquiring real estate in Serbia is one way to apply for a temporary residence permit. It is worth noting that there is no established minimum price threshold for the property, nor are there any restrictions on location or type of property being purchased. Foreigners can acquire both residential and commercial buildings, with the exception of agricultural land. A key point is that the purchased housing must meet the necessary living standards, and commercial spaces must be used for business purposes.

To obtain a temporary residence permit, the owner needs to register at their place of residence, prove their financial stability, and prepare the necessary documents for submission. Family members of the applicant are also entitled to receive a residence permit, including spouses, parents, and children.

As of today, a temporary residence permit is issued for one year. Those who intend to continue their stay must confirm the reasons for their presence in the country annually. After five years of living in Serbia, one can apply for a permanent residence permit, provided that the condition of continuous residence during this period is met.

Important:Continuous residence implies that one should not be absent from the country for more than ten months over the last five years, and the maximum period of continuous absence should not exceed six months (according to Article 67, paragraph 5 of the Law on Foreigners).

Market analysis of real estate in Serbia

Currently, plots of land are being offered in Niš, Serbia, starting at €90,000 for 10 hectares. These lands are characterized by high-quality fertile soils, making them ideal for agricultural use. Various plot sizes are available, ranging from 5 to 2000 hectares, suitable for growing orchards. All plots are equipped with the necessary utilities, and some are located near rivers and water bodies. The depth of the water table is 20-35 meters, which opens up the possibility for drilling wells.

Additionally, a hotel with an area of 850-900 square meters is for sale in the very center of Kopaonik. This complex includes 13 apartments, of which 12 have four beds and one has six. On the first floor, there is a restaurant and a modern kitchen ready to serve customers.

If you are interested in investments or life in Serbia, buying real estate will be a great step towards obtaining a temporary residence permit and creating a new lifestyle.

Description of the apartments

These apartments include areas for relaxation and sleeping, as well as a mini-kitchen and a bathroom. Each room is equipped with two televisions for maximum comfort. The construction of this hotel was completed in 2017.

Galeo Real Estate

Please take a look at the Galeo property being offered for171,500 €In Belgrade, Serbia. The area of this apartment is45 square metersand includes one bedroom. When purchasing, there is an option to obtain a residence permit, and payment can be made in rubles.

The apartment with an attic in the Vračar area stands out for its high-quality finishes and comfortable location. Nearby, you can find:

• Belgrade Drama Theatre;
• educational institutions — school and kindergarten;
• market;
• numerous restaurants and cafes;
• public transport stop.

The heating system operates through the condominiums, with each apartment equipped with an individual boiler.

Other options on the market

Among other options on the market, there is an apartment priced at147,000 €in the Belgrade district of Zemun. Its area is46 square metersand includes one bedroom. When purchasing, residence permit processing is also available, as well as the option to complete the transaction remotely with payment in rubles.

These modern apartments are located in a new building and feature elegant design, providing a high level of security and a stylish interior. The quality of the construction and renovation work ensures a comfortable living experience for tenants.

Modern new buildings

Another interesting property is an apartment for157,240 €in Belgrade, with a total area of41 square metersand one bedroom. This is a new building located near the theater, schools, childcare facilities, a market, and restaurants. The apartment on the attic floor has a total area41.93 m²and includes:

• hallway;
• kitchen;
• living room;
• bedroom;
• the bathroom.

In general, each apartment is equipped with underfloor heating and a boiler.

Spacious apartment

For those who appreciate space, there is an apartment for sale priced at190,000 €area83 square metersThis bright modern apartment features a fully equipped kitchen-living room, a spacious bedroom, and an office. The apartment is fully furnished and equipped with the latest appliances, and the windows offer a magnificent panoramic view of the city.

There is a major transport route nearby, which makes it convenient for living.

Unique property

Don't miss the chance to acquire a unique property — for148,500 €A building is being offered in Belgrade, built inin 1924located in a wonderful area of the old town, near the famous Skadarlija. This building includes two independent apartments with separate entrances, with a total area of55 square meterswith the possibility of combining them to create a single penthouse.

One of the apartments on the first floor is divided into separate spaces:

• living room;
• kitchen;
• bedroom;
• the bathroom.

Luxurious three-room apartment

There is also a luxurious three-room apartment for sale.185,000 €in Belgrade, with an area of75 m²located on the second floor of a five-story brick building, built inin 1990The practical layout includes:

• combined living room and kitchen;
• two separate bedrooms;
• bathroom;
• spacious bright hallway;
• a large balcony.

The major renovation was completed with the replacement of all systems and an update of the interiors, creating an atmosphere of comfort and modernity.

Excellent offer: an apartment in Belgrade

In today's review, we would like to introduce you to a unique apartment in the heart of Belgrade, Serbia. This living space covers 70 square meters and is located on the second floor of a modern multifunctional residential complex on Toshin Bunar Street.

Although the apartments were originally designed with two bedrooms, there is an opportunity to easily convert them into a three-room apartment, which will undoubtedly attract the attention of future owners.

Every room in this house is filled with light, and there are also magnificent terraces that are perfect for relaxing outdoors.

Stylish apartment in a quiet neighborhood

Our catalog also features a stylish apartment, the price of which is88,000 eurosThis cozy property, covering an area of 42 square meters, is located in a quiet neighborhood of Belgrade, offering an atmosphere perfectly suited for comfortable and relaxing living.

The interior of the living space has been carefully designed with all the modern needs of the residents in mind, with particular attention given to light and space.

The design is executed in a modern and elegant style, using high-quality materials and contemporary accents.

Attractive offer: apartment for 180,000 euros

The next apartment in our offer costs180,000 eurosIt represents an attractive offer in the real estate market. This residential property, covering an area of 46 square meters, includes all the necessary amenities for living.

In addition, the apartment comes with a convenient parking space located in close proximity to the elevator.

High-quality technologies from well-known brands such as Bosch, LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool have been used in the finishing, ensuring a long service life.

The kitchen is made of natural oak according to a custom design, and the glass terrace creates a cozy relaxation area. The apartment also has all the necessary furniture for comfortable living.

Duplex in Batajnica

Another remarkable offering is a stylish duplex with an area of163,000 euroslocated in one of the quietest areas of Batajnica in Zemun. This part of the city is well connected to the rest of the area.

Just a 10-minute drive from New Belgrade and the E70 motorway.

The duplex consists of two floors:

• First floor: hallway, living room, kitchen with dining area, and bathroom.
• Second floor: a hallway, two bedrooms, and two built-in storage rooms.

Spacious housing in Vračar

For those looking for more spacious housing options, it's worth considering the apartment in Vračar, the price of which524,300 eurosand an area of 108 square meters. This residential complex includes eight apartments and also offers the option to purchase a parking space.

The apartment consists of:

• Entrance areas
• Hall for guests
• Bathroom
• Bedrooms
• Master bedroom with its own bathroom and terrace.

All finishing materials here are of high quality, which gives the space a special comfort.

Four-room apartment in the Tserak area

For those who prefer apartments with more spacious areas, we offer an interesting opportunity – a four-room apartment for sale in the Tserak area.

The area of this property is88 square metersIt is located on the first floor of a building with an elevator and a basement area of 7 square meters.

Interiors include:

• Dining area
• A kitchen with a bar counter and access to the balcony.

On the left side, there is the first bedroom and a cozy living room.

Cozy apartment in Zlatibor

Also, pay attention to a small but very comfortable apartment in Zlatibor, which costs55,000 eurosThis apartment, covering an area of 35 square meters, is located in a registered area, and you will have access to an online viewing.

Zlatibor is famous not only for its picturesque natural landscapes with forests and mountains but also as a center for wellness tourism, where both locals and tourists are warmly welcomed.

Three-room apartment in Vračar

And finally, one more sentence: for195,000 eurosYou can become the owner of a three-room apartment in Belgrade, covering an area of 72 square meters.

Apartment in Mirieva

The apartment is located in the quiet area of Mirieva, which is conveniently connected to the city center. The journey to the main places takes only 15 minutes. The proximity of the bus stop, located just 150 meters away, adds to the convenience of getting around.

Offer on etagi.com

On the platform etagi.com, there is a property offered in Belgrade, Serbia. It is a 90 square meter apartment priced at 330,000 euros, representing a stylish and spacious living space in the city center. This is a wonderful opportunity for families or those looking to enjoy a high level of comfort.

The apartment is fully furnished and registered, located in an elite area just 100 meters from Kalemegdan and the Student Park. Nearby, there are various shops, restaurants, gas stations, and even a zoo.

Modern apartments in BW Quartet

On the etagi.com page, there is also a top-notch offer for an apartment for sale in the center of Belgrade. It has an area of 60 square meters and is priced at 270,000 euros. This excellent offer pertains to modern apartments in the recently built residential complex BW Quartet, which is ready for occupancy.

The location of this property in the heart of the famous Belgrade Waterfront area creates ideal conditions for living. The building is secured by a 24-hour security system, ensuring maximum protection and comfort for residents. In addition to the apartment, there is a large courtyard that is perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

Two-room apartment on Dorkolu

Among the listings on etagi.com, there is a two-bedroom apartment in Dorkolu, priced at 163,800 euros. The area of this property is 46 square meters, and the utility costs are very low. The apartment is located in a quiet and cozy neighborhood.

• near the school
• kindergarten
• supermarkets
• banks
• fuel stations
• parks
• botanical garden

According to the cadastral data, the area of the apartment is 46 square meters, but actual measurements show that it is 48 square meters. The interior spaces underwent a complete renovation in 2018 and include two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom.

Business registration in Serbia

When it comes to starting a business in Serbia, it is important to go through the procedure of registering a company in order to enter into contracts. This process includes:

• opening a bank account
• registration of a company with the Agency for the Maintenance of the Register of Economic Entities
• obtaining a tax number

After completing the specified stages, the entrepreneur has the opportunity to obtain a temporary residence permit, which can be extended. A work permit in Serbia can be issued based on the documents provided during the company registration. If the business is successful in the country and the temporary status is extended for five years, there is a chance to obtain permanent residency.

It should be noted that a bilateral agreement has been signed between Russia and Serbia, which excludes double taxation on income and property taxes. Furthermore, if a foreign entrepreneur hires citizens of Serbia, they have the opportunity to take advantage of tax benefits.

Work permit

The main document required for employment is a permit from the National Employment Service (NES). This organization:

• issues work permits for foreign citizens
• manages the processes of renewing and canceling permits

If there are no Serbian citizens with the required qualifications in the registry, this may be grounds for issuing a special work permit to foreigners in their companies. With a permit from NES, a signed employment contract with a Serbian employer, and registration at their place of residence, a foreigner can apply for a temporary residence permit.

Education and opportunities for foreigners

The main building of Serbia's largest educational institution, the University of Belgrade, founded in 1808, offers students the chance to obtain the education of their dreams. Studying at this university also provides the opportunity to apply for a temporary residence permit in the country. This right is granted to those who have completed higher education, are studying the Serbian language, participating in international exchange programs, doing internships, or engaging in scientific research.

The process of obtaining a temporary residence permit

To begin with, a potential applicant must register at their place of residence and then submit an official application for a residence permit. The application should be accompanied by a document confirming enrollment in an accredited educational institution. If it concerns scientific work, a contract with the relevant organization must be provided.

Terms and conditions of temporary residence

A temporary residence permit is issued for a period of 12 months and can be extended for a similar period. If the duration of study is less than a year, the temporary permit will be issued only for the duration of the studies. To obtain permanent residency, a foreigner should change their grounds for legal residence in the country, for example, by getting a job. It is important to note that only half of the time spent in Serbia for studies will be counted towards the total duration required to obtain permanent resident status.

Obtaining a residence permit through marriage

Another reason for obtaining a residence permit can be marriage or family reunification. A visa can be issued based on an official marriage or a civil partnership with a citizen of Serbia. To do this, it is necessary to gather a package of documents confirming the following facts:

• the fact of marriage
• partner's citizenship;
• the presence of real relationships.

All documents must be submitted together with the Serbian spouse. If the marriage has lasted for at least three years, there is an option to apply for permanent residency immediately.

Family reunification

Temporary residence permits for family reunification can be obtained by close relatives of both Serbian citizens and permanent residents of the country. "Close relatives" include not only spouses but also their children, whether born in lawful marriage or out of wedlock, including adopted children under the age of 18 who are not married. The family reunification program allows for permanent residency in Serbia to be obtained after three years of living with a temporary residence permit, according to Article 68 of the Law on Foreigners.

Other grounds for obtaining a temporary residence permit

In addition to the listed mechanisms, there are other ways to obtain a temporary residence permit in Serbia. These options may include:

• long-term treatment;
• volunteer work;
• independent living;
• participation in religious events;
• humanitarian reasons (for example, for refugees).

The law also mentions "other legitimate grounds in accordance with legislation or international agreements." Each specific case is considered individually by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all necessary documentation must be provided. Thus, the process of obtaining both temporary and permanent residence permits in Serbia is quite multifaceted and covers various situations, opening up broad opportunities for foreigners.

Introduction

For elderly individuals dreaming of obtaining permanent resident status, there is a valid opportunity to demonstrate the need for permanent residence in the country. Key factors for this may include access to medical care, purchasing real estate, or the desire to reunite with family.

Documents for submitting an application

In order for the application to be considered, it is necessary to provide a notarized letter from a close person who promises to support the pensioner financially, or a statement from the pension fund confirming regular social payments.

Agreements between Russia and Serbia

It is worth noting that there are bilateral agreements between Russia and Serbia that simplify the process of transferring pension savings. Additionally, there is the possibility of combining the pension experience that a person has accumulated in both Russia and Serbia, which can be of significant help to those who have worked in both countries.

Obtaining permanent residency

To obtain permanent resident status, it is necessary to have legally resided in Serbia for at least five years. In the case of family reunification, the waiting period for obtaining permanent residency is three years of continuous residence in Serbian territory.

It is important to emphasize that elderly citizens can obtain a residence permit under the same conditions as working foreigners, which simplifies the entire process.

Necessary documents

As for the documents required to obtain a temporary residence permit, the package includes both mandatory and specific papers, which may vary depending on the reasons for the application.

• A valid foreign passport with a remaining validity of at least six months after the residence permit expires;
• Confirmation of having means of subsistence at the level of €50 per day;
• Document confirming registration at the place of residence in Serbia;
• Medical insurance for the entire duration of stay;
• Receipt for the payment of the administrative fee;
• Two color photographs measuring 35×45 mm;
• The completed questionnaire.

Additional documents

Additional documents that confirm the stated reasons for obtaining a visa also need to be provided. For example, if you intend to purchase real estate, you will need to include:

• Certificate of ownership;
• Sales contract, if the deal was concluded recently;
• Other documents, such as a gift agreement or a certificate of inheritance.

Document translation

It is important to remember that all submitted documents and application papers must be translated into Serbian by a licensed translator, which is also a necessary requirement.

The procedure for obtaining citizenship

It is also worth mentioning the procedure for obtaining temporary and then permanent residency status, as well as citizenship in Serbia. This process consists of several stages:

• First, obtaining a temporary residence permit;
• Then transition to permanent;
• And finally, the process of obtaining citizenship.

The gradual implementation of these steps allows foreigners, including the elderly, to successfully carry out their immigration plans to Serbia and secure stable legal grounds for living in this country.

Obtaining a temporary residence permit in Serbia

To obtain a temporary residence permit in Serbia, it is not necessary to get a long-term visa of category D. You can enter the country on a tourist visa and then submit the documents you have gathered along with your application for residence to the local police department responsible for foreigners. Generally, the entire process takes no more than one month.

Steps to obtain a temporary residence permit

Obtaining a temporary residence permit involves several important steps:

• Border crossingFirst, you will need to cross the border into Serbia and obtain the appropriate stamp from the border guards.
• Registration at the place of residenceAfter that, it is important to register at your place of residence within the first 24 hours of your arrival.
• Visit to the police stationThen you need to go to the police station that handles immigration matters to get the application forms and find out the list of required documents for obtaining a residence permit.
• Submission of documentsAs soon as all the documents are collected, they should be submitted to the local police office.
• Obtaining a passportAs a result, after the positive verification of your documents, you will be issued a passport with a sticker confirming your status as a temporary resident.

Rights of temporary residents

Throughout the entire duration of your temporary permit, you will be able to leave Serbia and return without any issues. However, it is important to note that if your absence from the country exceeds six months, this may raise questions from the police. In such a situation, your temporary residence permit may not be renewed or may be issued for a significantly shorter period.

Extension of temporary status

If we talk about extending your temporary status, you need to contact the police department no later than 30 days before your current residence permit expires. Status renewal is only available if you are actually residing in Serbia at the time of application. The review of the extension application usually takes between 15 to 30 days.

Application for permanent residency

Those interested in obtaining permanent residency (PR) will need to wait five years after receiving temporary residency. It's important to remember that during this period, your absence should not exceed ten months in total, and six months consecutively.

To apply for permanent residency, you will need to gather a set of documents similar to those required for obtaining a residence permit. The list of documents includes:

• Valid foreign passport.
• Proof of available financial resources.
• Registration at your place of residence.
• Active health insurance.
• Payment of administrative fees.

Also, be sure to attach documents that confirm the grounds on which you received a temporary permit — this requirement is mandatory when applying for permanent residency. For example, such documents may include a certificate of property ownership, purchase and sale contracts, and similar papers.

Conclusion

Thus, the process of obtaining and renewing a temporary residence permit in Serbia, as well as applying for permanent residency status, is not a complicated task if you prepare all the necessary documents in advance and follow the established instructions.

Preparation of documents for employment in Serbia

In Serbia, to obtain a work permit, certain documents must be submitted. One of them is a current marriage certificate, which must have been registered no more than six months ago, as well as a marriage document for the citizen of Serbia. If one of the spouses is a foreigner, it will be necessary to provide proof of the marriage if there is a permanent residence in the country where it was concluded.

Marital status and origin

It is also necessary to provide evidence of the family status of both partners and other documents that may indicate the existence of a non-marital union. Furthermore, the list of requirements should include documents that confirm origin from Serbia, such as:

• Applicant's birth certificates;
• Birth certificates of one or both parents.

Document translation

If any documents were issued by authorities that do not have jurisdiction in Serbia, it is recommended to include a certified translation performed by a court translator with special certification. It should be noted that statements from foreign citizens confirming compliance with the criteria for obtaining temporary or permanent residence must be notarized.

Personal appeal to the police

A foreigner's personal application for permanent residency is submitted:

• At the police headquarters in Belgrade;
• At the local police station where the temporary residence address is registered.

After a positive review of the application, the residence permit will be recorded in the foreign passport as a sticker.

Citizenship of Serbia

As for the process of obtaining Serbian citizenship, an applicant can expect to receive citizenship status after three years of continuous residence in the country. However, this requires renouncing their original citizenship. According to information from the Passport Index resource, the Serbian passport allows visa-free entry to 125 countries, including Schengen Agreement countries, as well as Russia and China. It is expected that with Serbia's accession to the European Union, the number of visa-free countries will increase.

The cost of obtaining a residence permit

An important aspect is also the cost of obtaining a residence permit. When submitting an application for a residence permit, it is also necessary to provide a payment document confirming the payment of the administrative fee. These amounts are generated through the electronic government portal based on the entered personal information, registration, and the applicant's address. Details about the current fee amounts can be found on the website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Serbia, where tariff No. 37 is presented.

Reasons for the refusal to issue a residence permit

There are various reasons why an application for a residence permit may be denied. For example:

• If a foreigner provides falsified documents or incorrect information about themselves;
• If the documents are submitted late or if there is a violation of the payment deadlines for fees;
• If the submitted documents do not correspond to the reasons stated for obtaining the status;
• If the applicant has criminal convictions or other legal issues at the time of submitting the application.

Appeal of decisions

Foreigners have the right to appeal decisions regarding the refusal of residence permits within 15 days from the date of receipt. Therefore, the process of obtaining permanent residency and citizenship in Serbia requires careful preparation and adherence to all necessary legal conditions. The personal responsibility for the accuracy of the submitted documents and the informativeness of the provided information also lies with the foreigner.

Conclusion

In conclusion of the article, I want to emphasize that Serbia is becoming an increasingly attractive country for foreign citizens. Despite its lack of access to the sea and membership in the Schengen zone, this Balkan corner offers a rich cultural history, diverse natural beauty, and numerous opportunities for business and education. The simplified visa regime for citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan makes the country even more accessible.

Visa-free entry for up to 30 days, as well as the possibility of extending the stay through cross-border travel to neighboring countries, is attracting more and more tourists and potential residents.

The process of registration

It is particularly important to note that for those wishing to stay in Serbia for a longer period, there are clear procedures for obtaining temporary or permanent residency, which opens up new horizons for them. The process of paperwork, although it may take some time, is actually not that complicated with the right approach.

Advantages of Serbia

• Diverse opportunities for doing business
• High-quality education
• Accessible and simplified visa regime

SerbiaIt also offers a variety of opportunities for business and study, making it an optimal choice for those seeking new prospects. At the same time, an important aspect remains the careful study of visa policies and adherence to all required procedures to avoid refusals or issues with legal residency.

Serbia as a new homeland

Thus, Serbia is not just a country for a short visit, but also a place where one can build a life, receive an education, or start a successful business. Gradually, more and more foreigners are realizing the advantages that this country offers and are beginning to consider it as a new homeland. By coming to Serbia, one can not only enjoy its beauty but also find their place in the global world.