If you are planning on working in Serbia or hiring talent with foreign citizenship, you will have to apply for a residence and work permit. This guide will help you with the necessities and types of work permits available in Serbia.
Before traveling to the Republic of Serbia, please check here whether you need a visa.
Holders of foreign national passports possessing valid Schengen, UK, EU, or U.S. visas, as well as those with residence permits in the Schengen Area, EU, or the United States, are still entitled to enter, transit, and stay in Serbia without a prior visa application for up to 90 days within a six-month period, provided their visas or residence permits remain valid throughout their stay.
π Who Needs a Work Permit in Serbia?
In Serbia, foreign nationals are generally required to obtain a Unified Residence and Work Permit in order to be legally employed.
However, there are specific categories of foreigners who are eligible to work without a work permit under Serbian law. These exemptions are defined in the Law on Employment of Foreigners and related immigration regulations.
β Categories That Require a Work Permit:
- Foreign nationals employed by Serbian companies (standard employment contracts).
- Intra-company transferees from abroad to Serbian branches.
- Individuals on temporary assignment from foreign companies to Serbian legal entities.
- Founders of companies who wish to be employed by their own entity.
- Freelancers or self-employed individuals offering services in Serbia for longer than 90 days.
- Foreigners hired for technical cooperation projects (unless exempted by special rules).
- Foreign Startup founders
π Who Can Work in Serbia Without a Work Permit?
1. Citizens of Open Balkan Member States (Albania and North Macedonia)
Under the Open Balkan Agreement, citizens of Albania and North Macedonia can work in Serbia without a traditional work permit. Instead, they must obtain a Permit for Free Access to the Labour Market, valid for two years. This permit allows them to reside and work in Serbia without additional residence or work authorizations. The application can be submitted electronically through the Open Balkan Portal. Applicants need an Open Balkan Identification Number, which can be obtained via their national electronic identification systems.
2. Permanent Residents of Serbia
Foreign nationals who have been granted permanent residency in Serbia have unrestricted access to the labor market and do not require a work permit.
3. Refugees and Asylees
Individuals granted refugee status or asylum in Serbia are permitted to work without obtaining a separate work permit.
4. Family Members of Serbian Citizens or Permanent Residents
Spouses and dependent family members of Serbian citizens or permanent residents can work in Serbia without a work permit, provided they have a valid residence permit for family reunification.
5. Short-Term Assignments (Up to 90 Days within a 180-Day Period)
Foreign nationals may engage in certain activities in Serbia without a work permit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including:
- Attending business meetings, conferences, or seminars.
- Participating in cultural, artistic, or sports events.
- Installing, assembling, or repairing equipment supplied under a contract.
- Providing training related to the use of such equipment.
- Engaging in activities as a company founder, owner, or representative without being employed by the company.
Note: While a work permit is not required for these activities, a visa may still be necessary depending on the individual’s nationality.
6. Volunteers, Accredited Foreign Journalists, and Participants in State-Sponsored Projects
Foreign nationals engaged in volunteering, working as accredited journalists, or participating in projects in cooperation with Serbian state authorities may work without a traditional work permit. However, they must obtain a temporary residence permit that includes the right to work for the specific purpose of their stay.
7. Students and Researchers
Foreign students and researchers with a valid temporary residence permit for the purpose of study or research are allowed to work in Serbia without a separate work permit, subject to certain conditions and limitations.
β οΈ Important Considerations
- Even if a work permit is not required, foreign nationals may still need to obtain a residence permit depending on the duration and purpose of their stay.
- Employers are generally required to notify the National Employment Service (NES) about the employment of foreign nationals, even in cases where a work permit is not necessary.
- Failure to comply with Serbian immigration and labor laws can result in penalties for both the employer and the foreign national, including fines, deportation, or bans on re-entry.
For personalized assistance or further information, individuals and employers are encouraged to consult the following resources:
- National Employment Service (NES): https://www.nsz.gov.rs
- Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia: https://www.mup.gov.rs
- Open Balkan Portal: https://openbalkan.euprava.gov.rs/en-US/start
In April 2025, Serbia introduced the Digital Travel Authorization (DTA) system, allowing foreign nationals from eligible countries to obtain electronic travel authorizations online. This system is designed to streamline the entry process and enhance border security. However, the traditional visa-free entry provisions for holders of valid Schengen, UK, EU, or U.S. visas and residence permits remain unaffected by this development.
π·πΈ π Digital Travel Authorization (DTA) Portal
DTA Purpose
The DTA portal is designed for foreign nationals from eligible countries to apply for electronic travel authorization prior to entering Serbia. This system facilitates short-term stays for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
DTA Program Eligibility
Applicants must hold national passports from countries designated by Serbian authorities as eligible for the DTA program. Eligibility is determined based on factors such as low risk of irregular migration, reciprocity in visa regimes, and considerations of Serbia’s national security and interests.
DTA Application Process
Applicants can submit their requests through the official DTA portal. The process involves filling out an online form and providing necessary documentation.
Each issued DTA includes a QR code that can be scanned to verify its validity. This feature ensures the authenticity of the travel authorization and streamlines the entry process at border checkpoints.
The DTA portal can be accessed at evisa.welcometoserbia.gov.rs.
π·πΈ π eForeigner Portal
eForeigner Purpose
The eForeigner portal serves as a comprehensive platform for foreign nationals seeking to apply for various types of visas (such as Visa C and Visa D), temporary residence permits, and unified permits for residence and work in Serbia.
Services Offered
- Visa Applications: Submission of applications for short-term (Visa C) and long-term (Visa D) visas.
- Temporary Residence: Applications for temporary residence permits based on various grounds, including employment, education, family reunification, and more.
- Unified Permits: Processing of unified permits that combine both residence and work authorizations, streamlining the procedure for foreign workers.
User Access
Both individual applicants and employers can register and manage applications through this portal. Employers seeking to hire foreign nationals can submit group applications and monitor the status of their requests. The eForeigner portal is available at eforeigner.welcometoserbia.gov.rs.
Overview DTA+eForeigner
| Feature | Digital Travel Authorization (DTA) Portal | eForeigner Portal |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Electronic travel authorization for short-term stays | Comprehensive visa and residence/work permit applications |
| Target Users | Tourists, business travelers, transit passengers | Foreign nationals seeking long-term stay or employment |
| Application Scope | Short-term stays (typically up to 90 days) | Short-term and long-term stays, including work permits |
| Verification Method | QR code on electronic authorization | User account dashboard with application tracking |
| Access Link | evisa.welcometoserbia.gov.rs | eforeigner.welcometoserbia.gov.rs |
πΊVisa Types in Serbia
1. Visa A > Airport Transit Visa
- For travelers transiting through a Serbian airport without entering the country.
- Generally not required unless specified by Serbian authorities.
- Up to 6 months, allowing one or multiple transits through the international transit area of the airport without entering Serbia.
2. Visa C > Short-Stay Visa
For stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period, suitable for tourism, business, private visits, or transit.
Issued for one, two, or multiple entries; the total stay must not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Application Requirements:
- Completed visa application form.
- Valid passport (issued within the past 10 years, valid at least 90 days beyond the intended departure date, and with at least two consecutive blank pages).
- Recent passport-sized photograph (3.5×4.5 cm).
- Proof of purpose of stay (e.g., invitation letter, hotel reservation, or travel itinerary).
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay.
- Travel medical insurance.
- Proof of paid visa fee.
3. Visa D > Long-Stay Visa
For stays between 90 and 180 days, often as a precursor to applying for temporary residence. Common reasons include employment, education, family reunification, or business activities. Allows multiple entries; stay duration ranges from 90 to 180 days.
Application Requirements:
- Completed visa application form.
- Valid passport (issued within the past 10 years, valid at least 90 days beyond the intended departure date, and with at least two consecutive blank pages).
- Recent passport-sized photograph (3.5×4.5 cm).
- Proof of purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, university enrollment letter, or family ties).
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay.
- Travel medical insurance.
- Proof of paid visa fee.
π·πΈ Updated Process for Obtaining a Residence and Work Permit in Serbia (2025)
In February 2024, Serbia introduced the Unified Permit, a single document that combines both temporary residence and work authorization. This reform simplifies the application process, reducing administrative burdens and processing times.
The reforms introduced by Serbia in 2024 have modernized the process for obtaining residence and work permits, aligning with European Union standards and making the country more attractive to foreign professionals and investors.
Key Changes from Previous Procedures
Consolidation of Permits
The previous requirement to apply separately for a residence permit and a work permit has been replaced by the Unified Permit system.
Extended Validity
Temporary residence permits, previously valid for up to one year, can now be issued for up to three years, depending on the employment contract or legal grounds for residence.
Digital Application Process
The introduction of the eForeigner portal allows for electronic submission and tracking of applications, enhancing efficiency and transparency.
Simplified Procedures for Certain Categories
Specific categories, such as volunteers, accredited journalists, and individuals involved in projects with Serbian state authorities, may obtain temporary residence permits that inherently grant the right to work, eliminating the need for separate work permits.
The White Card (Beli karton)
The issuance of the White Card (Beli karton) remains a mandatory requirement for all foreign nationals upon arrival in Serbia. This registration serves as official proof of your legal stay and is essential for various administrative procedures, including applications for temporary or permanent residence permits.
π What Is the White Card?
The White Card is an official document issued by Serbian authorities to register the residence of foreign visitors. It confirms that you’ve registered your stay in accordance with Serbian law and is often required when applying for temporary residence permits, work permits, or other official documents.
π Registration Process
Hotel or Hostel Guests
If you’re staying at a hotel, hostel, or similar accommodation, the management is responsible for registering your stay with the local police. They will handle the paperwork, and you should receive a copy of the White Card upon check-in or shortly thereafter.
Private Accommodation
If you’re staying in a private residence or with friends or family, you must register yourself at the nearest police station within 24 hours of arrival. It’s advisable to be accompanied by the property owner or host, as their presence is required during the registration process. You’ll need to provide your passport and proof of your accommodation address, accommodation owner needs to provide proof of ownership for the given accommodation.
β οΈ Failure to register can result in fines or complications with authorities, especially if you plan to extend your stay or engage in official procedures.
If you move to a different address during your stay, you must update your registration at the local police station corresponding to your new residence within 24 hours.
Work Permit Types In Republic of Serbia
Work permits in Serbia are divided into two groups:
1. work eligibility with free access to the labor market known as “personal” and
2. related to specific employment with one employer – the legal entity registered in Serbia.
The reason and type of employment within a company registered in Serbia will determine the residence purpose and work permit type. The legislation in Serbia differentiates several work permits and is aligned with the European Union standards.
Application for a residence permit and work permit can be requested at the same time or separately. However, the residence approval will be the condition for the work permit.
Comparison of Work Permit Types in Serbia by Employer Dependency, Residency Requirements, and Labor Market Obligations
| Permit Type | Tied to Employer? | Self-Employment? | Residence Required? | Labour Market Test? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Work Permit | β | β | β (Permanent) | β |
| Standard Employment Permit | β | β | β (Temporary) | β (usually) |
| Special Employment Cases | β (or project) | β | β (Temporary) | β (often exempt) |
| Self-Employment Permit | β | β | β (Temporary) | β |
| Seasonal Work Permit | β | β | β (Temporary) | β |
| Highly Qualified Permit | β | β | β (Temporary) | β (depending) |
Personal Work Permit (LiΔna radna dozvola)
A personal work permit is a work permit that enables a foreigner in the Republic of Serbia to freely enter into employment, be self-employed, and exercise their rights in case of unemployment.
A “Personal” work permit is issued to the person that has some of the following “qualifications”:
- Foreign nationals with permanent residence in Serbia
- Refugees
- Persons granted subsidiary protection or special status
- Certain categories of displaced persons or stateless individuals
Key features:
- Allows free access to the labor market
- Enables employment with any employer or self-employment
- May be issued without a labor market test
This type of permit is not tied to a specific employer or job role, offering maximum flexibility.
Work Permit for Specific Employment Purpose
- Work permit for standard employment
- Work permit for special employment cases
- Work permit for self-employment
The request for the extension of the temporary residence and work permit should be submitted at the earliest three months and no later than 30 days before the expiration of the approved residence and work permits.
Application Docs Needed The Residence and Work Permit
Mandatory List of the Documents
- Valid passport – The validity period of the travel document must be at least three months longer than the period for which the temporary stay is granted. The passport must contain the border police stamp with an exact date and place of entrance in Serbia.
- Proof of means of subsistence during the planned stay. Evidence demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support oneself during the stay. This can include bank statements, employment contracts, or other financial documents.
- Proof of Accommodation and residence – “The White Card” and statement from the landlord consenting to the foreign nationalβs registered residential address. Alternatively, a lease agreement or property ownership document may be provided.
- Health insurance during the planned stay.
- The proof of payment of the prescribed administrative fee (amounts and payments are available via the government portal).
- Two photos (35x45mm, in color, headshot/full face).
- Completed request form.
Additional Documents
Additional documents (special documentation) vary depending on the residence and work purpose.
Labour Market Test
National Employment Agency will perform a labour market test when a standard employment work permit is needed. The labour market test is for the market assessment purpose, it is related to the vacant job described in the work permit application form. The NEA will search for the unemployed talent that is at the time of application available in the market, if the right talent for the job is not available the work permit will be granted, given that other necessities are fulfilled.
The employer initiates the labour market test by submitting the Vacancy Registration Form (PPZ Form) electronically through the eGovernment portal. Upon submission, the system generates an ID Number for the labour market test request. This ID Number must be included in the Single Permit application.
The NES typically completes this assessment within 4 to 10 days.
Certain categories of foreign employment are exempt from the labour market test requirement. These include:
- Intra-company transferees
- Self-employed individuals
- Independent professionals
- Individuals undergoing training or professional development
- Volunteers
The labour market test application must be submitted 60 to 30 days before the deadline for a work permit or i.e.employment contract start date.
Work Permit for Standard Employment
All mandatory docs plus >
- Registration certificate of a legal entity or entrepreneur in the Republic of Serbia;
- Employment contract (by the employer company)
- When the employment relationship is established for the first time “The report on the fulfillment of the conditions for employment from the organization responsible for employment”, and later, during the procedure of the temporary residence extension, only a work permit will be required.
- Educational Qualifications, diplomas or certificates relevant to the job position, along with certified translations
- Labor Market Test Report, conducted by the National Employment Service (NES) to confirm the unavailability of suitable local candidates for the position.
Work Permit for Business Owner
All mandatory docs plus >
Company Registration Documents:
- Certificate of business registration from the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA).
- Founding agreement and memorandum of association.
- Proof of the company’s registered address in Serbia.
Employment Contract – that is signed employment contract between the applicant and their own company, demonstrating active engagement in the business.
Work Permit for Contract on Business and Technical Cooperation Between Domestic and Foreign Legal Entities
All mandatory docs plus >
Contract on Business and Technical Cooperation:
- A signed agreement between the domestic and foreign legal entities, detailing the scope, location, and duration of the assignment.
- Must be translated into Serbian by a certified translator.
Assignment Letter from Foreign Employer:
- Official document assigning the foreign national to work temporarily in Serbia.
- Should specify the position, duration, and terms of the assignment.
- Must be translated into Serbian by a certified translator.
Confirmation of Employment Abroad:
- Proof that the foreign national has been employed by the foreign legal entity for at least one year.
- Must be translated into Serbian by a certified translator.
Registration Certificate of the Serbian Legal Entity:
- Proof of the domestic company’s registration with the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA).
Work Permit for Temporary Assignment Purpose
All mandatory docs plus >
Temporary Assignment Letter from the Foreign Employer
Official decision or letter assigning the employee to Serbia, stating:
- Full name of the assignee
- Position and responsibilities
- Duration and purpose of the assignment
- Nature of cooperation between the foreign and Serbian legal entities
Must be on official letterhead, signed and translated into Serbian
Acceptance Letter from the Serbian Host Entity
A confirmation issued by the Serbian legal entity, accepting the foreign national and specifying:
- Job title or function
- Location of work
- Duration and scope of engagement
Also must be on official letterhead and translated into Serbian
Registration Certificate of the Serbian Legal Entity:
- Proof of the domestic company’s registration with the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA).
π Additional Considerations
Temporary Assignment permits are generally exempt from labor market testing (unlike standard employment permits.
All foreign-language documents must be translated into Serbian by a court-certified translator
The permit is usually issued for the duration of the assignment (up to 1 year), with possible extensions
Approx. 2β4 weeks, depending on the completeness of documentation and current administrative workload
Work Permit for Accredited Foreign Journalist
All mandatory docs plus >
Accreditation Certificate:
- Issued by the Ministry of Information and Telecommunications of the Republic of Serbia.
- As of February 2025, the accreditation process can be completed online via the official portal.
Application Process Overview
- Obtain Accreditation
- Apply for accreditation through the Ministry’s online portal.
- Ensure all required information and documents are submitted accurately.
- Prepare Documentation
- Gather all necessary documents listed above.
- Ensure translations into Serbian where necessary.
- Submit Application
- Submit the Unified Residence and Work Permit application through the Portal for Foreigners.
- Biometric Data Collection
- Upon approval, schedule an appointment to provide biometric data (e.g., fingerprints) at the designated police station.
- Permit Issuance
- Receive the Unified Residence and Work Permit, typically issued for up to three years, with the possibility of renewal.
“Startup” Work Permit – Startup Founder (Innovative Business)
Relevant for the foreigners who founded a company in the Republic of Serbia whose innovative activity has been confirmed by a Serbian science and technology park.
All mandatory docs plus >
First residence
Certificate from a Registered Science and Technology Park
A document issued by a registered science and technology park, which confirms that the activity of a company founded by a foreigner in the Republic of Serbia is recognized as an innovative activity.
Company Registration Certificate
Proof that the applicant has legally founded the business in Serbia (from SBRA)
Extension
When applying to extend the permit, the founder must submit one of the following three types of evidence, depending on the situation:
- Proof of Employment of Serbian Nationals
- Evidence of an employment contract (or multiple) with one or more Serbian citizens
- Duration of the employment must exceed the requested extension period
OR
- Proof of Business Income
- Documentation showing the company generated a minimum of 1,000,000 RSD in business revenue during the current permit period
- This can include tax filings, financial statements, or certified banking records
OR
- Updated Certificate from the Science and Technology Park
- Statement that the company continues to engage in recognized innovative activity
π In addition to the specific proof mentioned above, all general documents from the initial application (e.g., passport, insurance, accommodation) must also be updated and resubmitted for the extension.
π Directory of Serbian Diplomatic Missions
- List of Embassies and Consulates: https://www.mfa.gov.rs/en/diplomatic-missions/serbian-diplomatic-missions
- This directory provides a comprehensive list of Serbian embassies, consulates, and permanent missions worldwide. It includes contact details, addresses, and the scope of services offered by each mission.
π Contact Information for Citizens and Foreigners
ποΈ Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)
Official Website: https://www.mfa.gov.rs/en
The MFA’s official website offers extensive information on Serbia’s foreign policy, consular services, and a directory of diplomatic missions.
- Consular Issues:
- Phone: +381 11 3068 268
- Email: okp@mfa.rsmfa.gov.rs
- Visa Issues:
- Phone: +381 11 3068 585
- Email: ovp@mfa.rsmfa.gov.rs
- Diplomatic Protocol:
- Phone: +381 11 3068 220
- Email: protocol@mfa.rs
- Emergency Contact (After Hours, Weekends, Holidays):
- Phone: +381 11 3616 333 or +381 11 3068 000
- Email: mfa@mfa.rs
For the most accurate and detailed information, it’s recommended to consult the official Serbian Ministry or contact the nearest Serbian diplomatic mission.
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