Living in Bosnia Herzegovine: the ultimate expat guide

Bosnia and Herzegovina maintains a relatively open visa policy for many nationalities. Citizens from Schengen countries, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. This exemption covers 98 countries total, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, several Latin American nations, and various Asian countries.

A useful provision allows holders of valid Schengen, EU, or US visas or residence permits to enter for up to 30 days, even if their nationality typically requires a visa. This makes Bosnia and Herzegovina particularly accessible for those traveling through the Balkans region.

Available visa categories

For nationals requiring visas or those planning extended stays, three main categories exist. The Type A visa covers airport transit only, without leaving the international zone. The Type C visa allows short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days, with validity typically up to 1 year (5 years in exceptional cases). This covers tourism, business trips, medical visits, or family visits, but crucially does not permit applying for temporary residence.

The Type D visa provides long-term stay authorization for 6 to 12 months and serves as the pathway to permanent settlement. It applies to medical treatment, family reunification, employment, or research purposes. This visa enables holders to apply for temporary residence permits to stay beyond one year.

Temporary residence permits for long-term stays

Planning to stay beyond 90 days requires applying for temporary residence at least 15 days before your initial visa-free period expires. Applications go through the Department for Foreigners at the Ministry of Security. The process requires criminal background verification with an apostilled official document from your home country.

Expats consistently report bureaucratic delays and complex procedures. Starting early and preparing all documents thoroughly helps avoid complications. Processing times can stretch over several weeks or months, requiring patience and persistence.

General visa application requirements

Your passport must remain valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay. You'll need a completed application form, a certified invitation letter from the Ministry of Security or prepaid travel agency voucher, proof of sufficient funds, return tickets or itinerary, accommodation proof, and vaccination certificates if arriving from epidemic areas.

Minors under 14 traveling alone require notarized parental authorization. Children traveling with one parent should carry a notarized letter from the absent parent, especially if surnames differ.

Recent changes and digitalization

Since January 2025, Bosnia and Herzegovina introduced an eVisa system, significantly streamlining applications for nationals from several African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries. This online platform eliminates initial embassy visits. Processing takes 5 to 15 working days, with fees ranging from EUR 31 to EUR 62 depending on visa type and entry requirements.

The country also officially joined the visa agreement with the European Economic Area in June 2025, further facilitating free movement for European nationals. These measures reflect the country's increasing openness and gradual alignment with European standards.

Bosnia and Herzegovina's job market remains challenging despite gradual improvements. As of March 2025, unemployment stood at 13.3%, down from 15% in 2023. This creates a competitive environment for job seekers, though certain sectors offer genuine opportunities for qualified expats.

Salary landscape and compensation

Wages vary significantly between the two entities and sectors. Minimum wage differs: BAM 682 (approximately EUR 349) monthly in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina since January 2025, and BAM 680 (approximately EUR 348) in Republika Srpska. The national average salary sits around BAM 1,066 (approximately EUR 546) monthly in 2025.

In the private sector, qualified professionals command substantially higher salaries. Experienced software developers earn BAM 2,500 to BAM 4,000 (EUR 1,280 to EUR 2,050) monthly, while senior engineers often exceed BAM 3,500 (EUR 1,795). The IT sector offers the most competitive packages, frequently matching regional standards to attract talent.

Key sectors for expats

The economy relies heavily on information technology, business process outsourcing, manufacturing, and tourism. The IT sector shows particularly dynamic growth, with numerous companies specializing in software development, technical support, and multilingual call centers. This expansion creates consistent demand for developers, project managers, and cybersecurity experts.

Tourism, experiencing the world's 3rd fastest growth rate, generates opportunities in hospitality, dining, and tourism services, particularly in Sarajevo, Mostar, and ski resorts like Jahorina and Bjelašnica. International organizations and NGOs present in the country regularly recruit qualified personnel for technical or cooperation missions.

Sources: WageIndicator, Trading Economics

Starting a business

Entrepreneurship in Bosnia and Herzegovina presents mixed prospects. The country ranks 90th out of 190 economies in the Doing Business rankings, reflecting sometimes burdensome administrative procedures. However, recent reforms have streamlined certain processes, with business registration now taking just 10 days on average in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Foreign entrepreneurs favor the DOO (limited liability company) structure, equivalent to an LLC. Minimum capital requirements vary by entity: a symbolic BAM 1 in the Federation, but EUR 1,000 in Republika Srpska. Registration costs range from EUR 100 to EUR 300, plus legal and accounting fees.

The technology sector attracts increasing investment, with incubators like INTERA Technology Park in Mostar and startup support programs. While the ecosystem remains modest compared to major European hubs, low operational costs (offices, salaries, taxes) provide significant advantages for entrepreneurs targeting regional or international markets.

Work culture and conditions

Labor legislation mandates a maximum 40-hour work week, with at least 20 days annual leave (this may increase with seniority or collective agreements). Employers must contribute to social insurance, representing approximately 41.5% of gross salary in employer contributions.

Professional culture blends Balkan and European influences. Interpersonal relationships matter significantly, and investing time in building connections with colleagues and partners facilitates business dealings. Hierarchy remains respected, but work atmosphere generally stays cordial. Punctuality, while valued in large companies and international organizations, can be more flexible in traditional local structures.

Bosnia and Herzegovina's tax system reflects its dual administrative structure, with each entity (Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska) applying its own tax rules, though general principles remain similar. Understanding where you establish tax residency matters, as rates and procedures differ slightly.

Personal income tax

The income tax system adopts an attractive flat tax model. In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the single rate stands at 10%, while Republika Srpska applies an even lower 8%, among Europe's lowest. This tax simplicity appeals to many entrepreneurs and remote workers who benefit from predictable, moderate tax burdens.

Tax applies to all income sources, including employment, self-employment, rental income, and dividends. Tax residents pay tax on worldwide income, while non-residents only pay on Bosnia and Herzegovina-sourced income. You're considered a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in the country during a calendar year or have your center of vital interests here.

Social security contributions

Beyond income tax, employees and employers must pay substantial social security contributions. For employees, deductions represent approximately 31% of gross salary, covering health insurance (12.5%), pension (17%), and unemployment insurance (1.5%). Employers add their own contributions totaling approximately 10.5%.

These high contribution rates increase labor costs but guarantee access to the local social protection system, including healthcare and future pensions. Self-employed individuals must also contribute, with amounts calculated on a fixed basis or proportional to declared income.

Corporate tax and business environment

Companies benefit from competitive taxation with corporate tax set at 10% in both entities. This rate applies to net profits after deducting all legitimate operating expenses. New businesses sometimes qualify for temporary exemptions in certain special economic zones or priority sectors.

Dividends distributed to shareholders face withholding tax of 5% in Republika Srpska and 10% in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Capital gains from selling shares or equity also face taxation, generally at the standard income tax rate. VAT, locally called PDV, stands at 17% on most goods and services.

Tax treaties

Bosnia and Herzegovina has signed double taxation treaties with around 40 countries, including the UK, US, and Canada. These agreements prevent the same income from being taxed twice, in your home country and in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Treaties generally follow the OECD model and allocate taxation rights based on income type and residence status.

If you receive pension income from your home country, it typically remains taxable there, even if you reside in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, locally earned salaries face taxation here. Consulting a tax advisor specializing in international situations helps optimize your position and ensure compliance in each jurisdiction.

Tax filing and payments

Annual income tax returns must be filed by March 31 of the year following the income year. Employers generally withhold tax monthly, but adjustments may occur during final filing. Self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs must carefully track their filing obligations, including VAT if their turnover exceeds the threshold of BAM 50,000 (approximately EUR 25,600).

Local tax authorities are modernizing with gradual digitalization of services. Nevertheless, procedures may still require physical visits and patience with administrative delays. Engaging a local accountant from the start greatly facilitates compliance and avoids penalties for late or incorrect filing.

Bosnia and Herzegovina's healthcare system operates on mandatory health insurance, accessible to all residents contributing to the social system. Care quality varies significantly between major cities like Sarajevo or Banja Luka, where infrastructure is adequate, and rural areas where specialized care access remains limited. Many expats combine the public system with private supplementary insurance.

Public system and mandatory insurance

Public health insurance covers basic care, general practitioner consultations, emergency hospitalizations, and partial medication costs. Contributions, deducted directly from salaries (approximately 12.5% of gross salary), provide system access. As an expat working legally, you'll be automatically enrolled and receive a health insurance card.

Public facilities often show long waiting times for specialist appointments or non-urgent surgical procedures. Medical staff generally receives solid training, with many doctors having studied abroad. However, equipment isn't always cutting-edge, and some specialized treatments may require travel to neighboring Croatia, Serbia, or Austria.

Private insurance and international clinics

The private healthcare sector is rapidly developing, particularly in Sarajevo where several clinics offer international standards. International private health insurance typically costs EUR 800 to EUR 2,000 annually per adult, depending on coverage extent and whether medical evacuation abroad is included. These policies provide private clinic access without delays and follow-up in English or other foreign languages.

Private consultations remain very affordable compared to Western standards: a specialist visit costs BAM 40 to BAM 80 (EUR 20 to EUR 41), and a general practice consultation around BAM 30 (EUR 15). These rates make private care accessible even for occasional treatment without supplementary insurance.

Major healthcare facilities

In Sarajevo, the University Clinical Center represents the country's largest hospital, offering services across all medical specialties. The Sarajevo Private Hospital provides quality private care with English-speaking staff. The International Medical Center specifically targets the expat community with foreign-trained doctors.

In Banja Luka, the University Hospital Center serves as the reference facility for Republika Srpska. Mostar has the University Clinical Hospital, well-equipped for emergencies and routine care. Tuzla features the University Clinical Center renowned for maternity and pediatric services. In other cities, local health centers provide basic care, but complex cases typically get referred to major cities.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies are numerous and well-stocked in urban areas. Many common medications are available without prescription at prices significantly lower than Western Europe. Pharmacists rarely speak English fluently but often have basic proficiency, at least in major cities. Consider bringing a reserve supply of your regular medications during initial settlement while finding local equivalents.

Medications reimbursed by public insurance require prescriptions from system-affiliated doctors. Patient copayments vary by medication type, with generally modest charges. For specific or rare treatments, ordering from abroad may be necessary, extending supply timelines.

Recommendations for expats

Before departure, verify your coverage options. US citizens might consider international health insurance that includes medical evacuation, particularly useful for serious conditions requiring treatment in better-equipped countries. Ensure vaccinations are current. No vaccines are mandatory for entering Bosnia and Herzegovina, but standard vaccines (DTP, Hepatitis A and B, tick-borne encephalitis if hiking in forests) are recommended. Tap water is generally potable in major cities, but some expats prefer bottled water as a precaution.

Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina follows a complex system inherited from the country's recent history, with school curricula varying across Federation cantons and between the two entities. Expat families typically choose between integration into the affordable local system and international schools offering programs in English or other foreign languages.

Local education system structure

Compulsory schooling runs from age 6 to 15, divided into two cycles: 9-year primary education (osnovna škola) followed by 3 or 4-year secondary education (srednja škola) depending on the track. Public schools are free, though families must budget for supplies and sometimes contribute to extracurricular activities.

Instruction occurs in Bosnian, Serbian, or Croatian—three official, mutually intelligible languages associated with distinct community identities. In some regions, students from different communities may even study in separate buildings or follow distinct programs, a reality stemming from the Dayton Peace Accords. This situation can confuse newcomers, though in major cities like Sarajevo, the school environment generally remains more mixed and open.

International schools in Sarajevo

The capital concentrates most international education offerings. QSI International School of Sarajevo, accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, delivers an American curriculum from kindergarten through high school. It serves children of diplomatic staff and expats working for international organizations. Annual tuition runs around USD 12,000 (approximately EUR 11,000).

Sarajevo International School also offers an international curriculum with English instruction. Smaller than QSI, it provides a family atmosphere with reduced class sizes. Tuition falls in a similar range. No accredited schools exist currently in Bosnia and Herzegovina for other language communities, which can complicate educational continuity for those planning returns or moves to other countries.

Some private local schools offer bilingual Bosnian-English or Bosnian-German programs, with significantly lower fees (between EUR 3,000 and EUR 6,000 annually). These institutions can provide a good compromise, allowing children to learn the local language while maintaining strong English proficiency.

Options in other cities

Outside Sarajevo, international education offerings become scarce. Banja Luka has some private schools offering enhanced English courses but no complete international programs. In Mostar and Tuzla, expat families typically enroll children in local public schools, supplemented by private language classes or distance learning programs.

This reality pushes many expat families with children to prefer Sarajevo for settlement, where international educational infrastructure allows smoother transitions. Families based elsewhere often need creativity, combining local schooling with international support via online platforms.

Higher education opportunities

Bosnia and Herzegovina has several respected regional public universities, notably the University of Sarajevo, University of Banja Luka, and University of Mostar. Higher education remains very financially accessible, with annual tuition below EUR 1,000 at public institutions, sometimes even free for certain programs.

Classes primarily occur in local languages, limiting access for international students not fluent in Bosnian, Serbian, or Croatian. Nevertheless, some master's and doctoral programs in English are emerging, particularly in economics, engineering, and international relations. Recognition of Bosnian degrees varies by country, so verifying equivalencies before starting a course is prudent, especially if planning a career in another European country.

Integration considerations

Integrating expat children into the local system can prove enriching, especially for long-term stays. Children quickly pick up local languages and befriend Bosnian classmates. However, cultural differences, particularly regarding school discipline and teaching methods, require an adjustment period.

Public school teachers rarely speak English fluently, which can complicate parent communication. Support from a translator or more experienced expat parent facilitates initial contacts. Schools generally appreciate family openness and integration willingness, often making efforts to welcome new students positively.

Bosnia and Herzegovina's real estate market stands out for exceptionally affordable prices compared to Western European standards, whether renting or buying. Expats generally find suitable accommodation without major difficulties, especially in larger cities where offerings are varied. Online searches work, though engaging a local agency or on-the-ground contacts often accelerates the process.

Housing types available

Housing in Bosnia and Herzegovina divides mainly between apartments in collective buildings and individual houses. In city centers of Sarajevo, Banja Luka, or Mostar, apartments dominate. These units often occupy Yugoslav-era buildings—functional but aging—or newer developments with modern finishes.

Individual houses appear mainly in suburbs or quieter residential neighborhoods. They typically offer more space and a garden, appealing to families with children. Traditional Bosnian architecture, with pitched roofs and stone facades, coexists with more contemporary construction. Thermal insulation quality varies considerably, an important point to verify given harsh winters in mountainous regions.

Rental prices and neighborhoods in Sarajevo

Sarajevo concentrates most expat rental demand. The historic city center (Stari Grad) attracts with its Ottoman charm and animation, with renovated apartments renting for EUR 500 to EUR 800 monthly for a two-bedroom. The Marijin Dvor neighborhood, close to government institutions and embassies, shows similar rents and attracts diplomats and international civil servants.

Ilidža, on the western outskirts, offers more spacious, newer housing often favored by expat families. Rents for three-bedroom apartments range from EUR 600 to EUR 900 monthly. Novo Sarajevo, a modern, well-served district, provides good infrastructure with international supermarkets, schools, and medical centers nearby. A family apartment rents for around EUR 700 monthly.

More outlying or working-class neighborhoods like Dobrinja or Hrasno show significantly lower rents, from EUR 300 to EUR 500 for decent sizes, but with fewer international services nearby. Neighborhood choice depends on your priorities: city center proximity, international school access, or tighter budget.

Rental market in other major cities

In Banja Luka, the country's second city, rents remain very accessible. A modern two-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for EUR 400 to EUR 600 monthly, even less in peripheral neighborhoods. The city, capital of Republika Srpska, offers pleasant quality of life with less bustle than Sarajevo.

Mostar, famous for its historic bridge, attracts expats drawn to the picturesque setting. Rents range from EUR 350 to EUR 550 for family accommodation. Tuzla, an industrial and university city, offers even lower prices, with decent apartments from EUR 300 monthly. Zenica, oriented toward steel industry, hosts few expats but offers among the country's lowest living costs.

Property purchase and investment

Real estate acquisition in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains open to foreigners, with some regional restrictions. Purchase prices are particularly attractive: a 70 m² apartment in central Sarajevo averages EUR 120,000 to EUR 150,000, or approximately EUR 1,700 to EUR 2,100 per m². In peripheral neighborhoods, rates drop to EUR 1,000 to EUR 1,300 per m².

In Banja Luka, prices fall to EUR 1,200 per m² on average, even lower in secondary cities. These attractive prices draw some foreign investors, notably members of the Bosnian diaspora. However, the real estate market remains illiquid, and reselling quickly can prove difficult.

Purchase procedures require notary involvement and meticulous property title verification, sometimes complicated by destructions during the 1990s conflict. Engaging a lawyer specializing in real estate law is strongly recommended to secure transactions and avoid subsequent disputes.

Finding housing and formalities

Rental searches proceed via sites like Realitica.com, Facebook groups dedicated to expats, or word-of-mouth. Local real estate agencies typically charge one month's rent as commission. Landlords usually request a deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent, returned at lease end subject to property condition.

Rental contracts should be registered with tax authorities, though this obligation isn't always respected in practice. As an expat, insist on obtaining a proper contract, as you'll need it for your residence permit application. Utilities (heating, water, electricity, waste collection) aren't always included in rent and can represent EUR 100 to EUR 150 additional monthly in winter.

Central heating by gas or oil remains standard in collective buildings, with radiators in each room. Some apartments have reversible air conditioners, useful for hot summers but expensive on electricity. Check installation condition before signing, as repairs can take time and landlords aren't always responsive.

Preparing an international move to Bosnia and Herzegovina demands careful organization, especially as the country remains less logistically connected than major expat destinations. Anticipating administrative, customs, and logistical procedures avoids complications once you arrive. Here's a checklist to structure your settlement.

Pre-departure documents and formalities

1. Verify your identity documents: Your passport must remain valid at least 3 months beyond your intended stay. If planning a long stay, prepare documents for your residence permit application (apostilled criminal record, income proof, translated birth certificates if necessary).
2. Arrange health coverage: Subscribe to international insurance covering care in Bosnia and Herzegovina and, if possible, medical evacuation. Maintain continuity of your home country healthcare rights if applicable.
3. Settle tax affairs: Inform your home tax authority of your departure and verify your filing obligations. Research the tax treaty between your country and Bosnia and Herzegovina to avoid double taxation.
4. Prepare children's school records: Request report cards, school certificates, and vaccination records. If targeting an international school, start enrollment procedures several months ahead as places are limited.
5. Gather medical documents: Bring your prescriptions (translated into English if possible), vaccination records, and important medical files. Build a reserve supply of your regular treatments for initial months while finding local equivalents.
6. Open a bank account remotely if possible: Some Bosnian banks accept account opening before arrival, facilitating initial transactions. Otherwise, plan for euros in cash and an international bank card for the first days.

Shipping your belongings

1. Choose appropriate shipping mode: For a complete move, road transport by container remains the most economical solution. Expect approximately EUR 2,000 to EUR 4,000 for a move from Western Europe, depending on volume and accessibility. Air freight, faster, costs significantly more.
2. Prepare customs documents: Bosnia and Herzegovina applies relatively flexible customs policy for new residents' personal effects. You'll need a detailed inventory of your goods, your residence permit or expat status proof, and possibly ownership proof for valuables.
3. Sort and sell excess items: Housing in Bosnia and Herzegovina is often smaller than in some Western countries. Lighten your belongings to reduce transport costs. Furniture and appliances are easily found locally at affordable prices.
4. Insure your goods during transport: Subscribe to moving insurance covering damage, loss, or theft during transport. Photograph valuables before packing to facilitate potential claims.

Upon arrival: first steps on the ground

1. Register your address with local police: Within 48 hours of settling in, you must declare your residence at your neighborhood police station. Your landlord can assist with this mandatory procedure.
2. Obtain a tax identification number (JMB): This unique number is indispensable for all administrative, banking, and professional procedures. Applications go through local tax services.
3. Connect your utilities: Contact electricity, gas, and water providers to activate services in your name. Procedures can take several days, so plan accordingly.
4. Activate internet and mobile service: Major operators (BH Telecom, HT Eronet, Telekom Srpske) offer combined internet/mobile packages at very affordable rates, around EUR 30 monthly for a complete plan.
5. Explore your neighborhood and identify essential businesses: Locate supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, and local services. Get to know your neighbors, who can provide guidance and facilitate integration.
6. Register with your consulate: Though not mandatory, this registration allows your consulate to contact you in emergencies and facilitates administrative procedures (passport renewal, civil status documents).

Practical tips for successful transition

Budget at least EUR 2,000 as a safety cushion to cover unexpected first-month expenses: deposits, missing equipment, administrative fees, housing repairs. Banking delays for receiving your first salary can be long, and having a reserve avoids financial stress.

If possible, make a reconnaissance trip before your definitive move. This lets you visit housing, meet potential employers, and familiarize yourself with your intended city. Several days on the ground beat hours of online research for getting an accurate picture of daily life.

Finally, join expat groups on social networks and online forums. These communities regularly share practical advice, good addresses, and organize events allowing you to quickly build a social network. Mutual support among expats greatly facilitates adaptation and helps overcome the inevitable early difficulties more calmly.

Bosnia and Herzegovina reveals unexpected treasures for expats curious to explore their host country. Between majestic mountains, multicultural historical heritage, and vibrant cultural scene, the country offers plenty to fill your free time enjoyably. Bosnians' legendary hospitality quickly transforms visitors into café regulars and local event attendees.

Historical heritage and must-see sites

Sarajevo, nicknamed the "Jerusalem of Europe," fascinates with its architectural and religious diversity. The Baščaršija quarter, the city's Ottoman heart, unfolds its cobblestone alleys lined with artisan shops and traditional cafés where you can savor Bosnian coffee with Turkish delight. The Sebilj, an emblematic wooden fountain, serves as a meeting point for locals and tourists.

The Old Bridge of Mostar (Stari Most), UNESCO World Heritage listed, constitutes the country's iconic image. Rebuilt after its wartime destruction, this Ottoman bridge spans the Neretva River in a breathtaking setting. In summer, local divers brave the 24-meter height to jump into emerald waters, under spectators' applause.

Blagaj, a few kilometers from Mostar, houses a Dervish monastery nestled at a cliff's base, beside the Buna River's source. The site's mystical atmosphere, with its 16th-century tekke (monastery), makes it an unmissable excursion. Jajce impresses with its medieval citadel and downtown waterfall, while Počitelj, a fortified Ottoman village, offers exceptional panoramic views.

Nature and outdoor activities

The Dinaric Alps crossing the country offer an ideal playground for nature lovers. In winter, ski resorts Jahorina and Bjelašnica, which hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, provide varied slopes at very affordable rates: a day pass costs approximately EUR 25, compared to double in Western European Alps.

In summer, hiking dominates. Sutjeska National Park shelters the Perućica primeval forest, one of Europe's last, and Maglić summit (2,386 meters), the country's highest point. Una National Park, in the northwest, enchants with its waterfalls and crystal-clear waters suitable for rafting and kayaking. Descents of the Tara River, carving the world's second-deepest canyon after the Grand Canyon, attract thrill-seekers.

Bosnian rivers abound with trout, and sport fishing is a popular pastime. Blidinje and Boračko lakes offer peaceful settings for family picnics. Mountain biking is developing, with marked trails around Sarajevo and in Republika Srpska's mountains.

Cultural life and events

The Bosnian cultural scene blends Eastern and Western influences in unbridled creativity. The Sarajevo Film Festival, each August, has become the major cinematic event of Southeast Europe, attracting international filmmakers and actors. Baščaršija Nights transforms the old quarter into a giant stage for concerts, street performances, and artistic shows throughout the summer.

Classical music lovers will appreciate the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra and its regular concerts in historic venues. The National Theatre programs plays, ballets, and operas at minimal prices (tickets from EUR 5). Sarajevo's cafés and bars frequently host sevdah concerts, melancholic traditional Bosnian music, moving even for those who don't understand the lyrics.

Mostar organizes a diving festival from its famous bridge each July, with international competitions. Banja Luka hosts Demofest, an alternative music festival attracting regional bands. Sarajevo's Christmas markets now rival major European cities, in a warm, authentic atmosphere.

Gastronomy and social life

Bosnian cuisine, an Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian legacy, delights palates. Ćevapi (small grilled sausages served in pita bread with onions), burek (meat or cheese pastry), and sogan dolma (stuffed onions) are must-tries. Pita, savory or sweet pies, come in endless variations by season and region.

Cafés occupy a central place in Bosnian social life. Taking time to sip coffee on a terrace, watch passersby, and chat for hours forms an integral part of the local lifestyle. Expats quickly learn to slow down and savor these moments of conviviality that weave social bonds.

Restaurants offer excellent value, with a complete meal for EUR 15 to EUR 25 per person in quality establishments. Traditional taverns (aščinica) serve hearty dishes for under EUR 10. Local wine production, notably in the Herzegovina region, gains recognition, and wines like Žilavka (white) or Blatina (red) deserve discovery.

Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks among Europe's most affordable destinations, with living costs running approximately 38.9% lower than Berlin, a common reference point for Central European comparisons. This economic reality allows expats to live comfortably on budgets that would be tight in other European countries. Rent particularly shows spectacular differences: 66.5% cheaper than Berlin on average.

The data below reflect average prices observed in Sarajevo as of September 2025. Other cities in the country generally show 15% to 30% lower rates, particularly for housing and local services. The local currency, the Convertible Mark (BAM), is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate of approximately BAM 1.95 to EUR 1.

Monthly budget for a single person

A single person can live comfortably in Sarajevo on a budget between EUR 800 and EUR 1,200 monthly, excluding rent. This amount allows renting a one-bedroom apartment on the outskirts, eating out several times weekly, and enjoying local leisure activities. Adding rent for a studio or one-bedroom in the city center (EUR 400 to EUR 600), total monthly budget ranges from EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,800.

Sources: Numbeo Sarajevo (September 2025)

Monthly budget for a family of four

A family with two children naturally requires a larger budget, especially when choosing international schooling. Housing represents the major expense, with three-bedroom city center apartments renting for EUR 700 to EUR 1,000 monthly. International school tuition (approximately EUR 1,000 per child monthly) weighs heavily in the overall budget.

Sources: Numbeo Sarajevo (September 2025)

Common retail prices

To refine your understanding of daily living costs, here are sample prices in Sarajevo. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately EUR 8, while dinner for two at a mid-range establishment with wine runs EUR 35 to EUR 45. A coffee at the counter costs around EUR 1.50, and a local beer (50cl) in a bar EUR 2.50.

At the supermarket, a liter of milk costs approximately EUR 0.90, a dozen eggs EUR 2.50, a kilogram of chicken EUR 5.50, and a kilogram of fresh tomatoes EUR 1.80. A decent local wine bottle starts at EUR 5, and imported products remain generally accessible, though showing a slight premium compared to local products.

Public transport in Sarajevo costs EUR 0.90 per single ticket, with a monthly pass around EUR 30. A taxi ride (5 km) costs EUR 5 to EUR 7. Gasoline hovers around EUR 1.20 per liter, slightly cheaper than Western Europe. A cinema ticket costs EUR 5, and gym membership ranges from EUR 25 to EUR 40 monthly.

Regional comparisons

Compared to other European capitals, Sarajevo shows very competitive prices. Living costs run approximately 50% lower than London or major US cities, and even 30% cheaper than Budapest or Bucharest. For expats with euro or dollar income, purchasing power increases considerably, enabling comfortable living without an exorbitant salary.

This economic situation progressively attracts remote workers and retirees with fixed incomes, who enjoy the pleasant setting and quality of life without sacrificing their budget. However, be aware that local salaries remain well below Western European standards. If working for a Bosnian employer, carefully negotiate your compensation to maintain your expected living standard.