Serbia: entry and work permits for foreigners

Serbia is outside the EU and has its own entry rules. But even visa-free entry does not give you the right to work. To work you need a single permit for residence and work.

Do you need a visa?

It depends on your citizenship. Serbia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs keeps a list for every country: find yours and check the rule for ordinary passports. Many countries' citizens may enter without a visa for 30 or 90 days.

If you hold a valid visa or residence permit of the Schengen area, the UK, an EU member state or the US, Serbia's rules let you enter without a visa for up to 90 days within six months.

How to get the right to work

According to the official Welcome to Serbia portal:

• The foreigner can apply for the single permit, or the employer can apply on their behalf.
• A decision is made within 15 days of a complete application.
• The permit is issued for up to three years.
• If you don't need a visa to enter, you can apply once you are in Serbia. If you do, you first get a type D visa based on employment.

Applications are made online through the eForeigner portal.

Watch out for

• The visa-free 30 or 90 days are for visits, not work. Working without a permit is not allowed.
• Don't pay middlemen for an "invitation" or a "reserved place": the employer can apply themselves.
• Some of the Ministry's pages were last updated years ago. Before you travel, confirm the rules with the Serbian embassy in your country.