Seeking Advice: Relocating from the UK to Serbia

1POSTS

last year

Hello everyone,

My family and I are planning to relocate from the UK to Serbia in July/August 2026, right after our daughter completes her GCSEs. We aim for her to continue A-level studies at an international school in Belgrade. We would greatly appreciate any insights or experiences you can share.

About Us

I am UK-based; my wife and daughter hold Canadian passports.

Our daughter will be 17 and is finishing her GCSEs this coming summer.

We are financially secure to support our relocation and studies in Serbia .

Our Questions

1. International Schools for A-Levels

Experiences with programs at the British International School, International School of Belgrade (ISB), or Anglo-American School?

Insights into curriculum quality, extracurriculars, and school culture .

2. Application Timelines

Best time to start applications for an August 2026 intake to avoid missing deadlines .

3. Life for Teenagers

Transition experiences for expat teens in Belgrade.

Tips on social integration and making local and expat friends .

4. Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods

Recommendations for safe, community-focused areas near major international schools.

Approximate rent and living costs in those areas .

5. Residency & Legal Assistance

Advice on obtaining Type D visas and temporary residence permits at MUP.

Common challenges and timelines .

Given our financial security, is it worth hiring a local immigration lawyer to streamline the process and avoid pitfalls? We’re curious about cost vs. benefit based on your experiences .

6. Accommodation & Cost of Living

Tips on finding furnished vs. unfurnished rentals.

Expected monthly expenses for rent, utilities, insurance, and groceries .

7. Banking & Taxes

Experiences opening a Serbian bank account (required documents, preferred banks).

Managing UK rental-income tax obligations while resident in Serbia .

Any advice, personal stories, or links to helpful resources would be tremendously helpful. Thank you in advance for your support! 🙏

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erikashaper New member

1POSTS

2 months ago

I'm loo king for some friends that speak English or s pamish

Bhavna Team

43661POSTS

2 months ago

@erikashaper

Hello and welcome !

Please note that you are posting on an old thread. I would suggest that you introduce yourself so that members get to know you : https://www.expat.com/en/forum/europe/s … 2026-.html

All the best

Bhavna

MarkStephan Banned

14POSTS

2 months ago

I have done a few big moves myself, so I know the stress of sorting schools and visas from thousands of miles away.

For international schools, the British International School in Belgrade follows the English National Curriculum. That would make the transition smoother for your daughter. The International School of Belgrade is more IB based, so less familiar for A Levels. Send off applications as soon as you can. Some schools have waiting lists.

Family friendly neighbourhoods? Dedinje and Senjak are popular with expats and close to the international schools. They are not cheap though. Expect €1,000 to €1,500 a month. For a more local vibe, try Vračar. It is lovely.

On the legal side, given you have a mix of UK and Canadian passports, hire an immigration lawyer for the Type D visa and temporary residence permit. It will save you endless headaches at MUP. Trust me on that.

And honestly? The thing I have always missed most when moving is the food. You will not find a decent cuppa or a proper biscuit anywhere. The first thing I do when I land somewhere new is figure out how to get PG Tips and crumpets delivered. I use McGrocer now because they ship from UK supermarkets. Proper brands without paying an arm and a leg. Lifesaver for those first few months when you just want a taste of home.

Good luck with the move. It sounds like a brilliant adventure.