Living in Serbia: the ultimate expat guide

Serbia has significantly streamlined its immigration procedures in 2025, making the country more accessible to international residents. Whether you're planning a short visit or permanent relocation, the process is now faster and more straightforward thanks to the online platform Welcome to Serbia. The country offers multiple visa categories tailored to different needs, and many nationals enjoy visa-free entry for short stays.

Visa-free entry and short stays

Citizens of EU countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and numerous other nations can enter Serbia without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Additionally, holders of valid Schengen, UK, or US visas can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. This flexibility allows you to explore the country and handle preliminary arrangements before committing to a longer-term move. Note that since April 2025, certain countries including Kuwait, Mongolia, Oman, and Qatar now require visas for entry.

Type C visa for short-term stays

The Type C visa covers short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It's suitable for tourism, family visits, business trips, or attending events. The cost is approximately EUR 50. However, this visa doesn't allow you to apply for temporary residence later. If you're planning to settle in Serbia, you'll need to apply directly for a Type D visa.

Type D visa: gateway to long-term residence

The Type D visa is the long-stay visa required for obtaining temporary residence permits. It's valid for 90 to 180 days and enables you to apply for a unified permit that combines residence and work authorization. Fees range from RSD 10,000 to 12,000 (approximately EUR 85-100) depending on the application type. Since 2025, processing time has been reduced to 19 business days from 70 previously—a substantial improvement. A notable addition: since April 2025, Serbia offers electronic visas (Digital Travel Authorization) as an alternative to traditional visa stickers, with simplified QR code verification.

Temporary residence permits

Once in Serbia with your Type D visa, you can apply for a temporary residence permit, typically granted for 6 months on first application and renewable up to 3 years. Acceptable grounds include employment, studies, family reunification, real estate investment, or business establishment. To maintain your residence status, you must spend at least 183 days per year in Serbia. The new unified system combines residence and work permits into a single document, significantly simplifying procedures for working expats. Fees for family reunification with a Serbian citizen are RSD 11,350 (approximately EUR 97).

Permanent residence pathway

After 3 years of legal temporary residence with a minimum presence of 183 days annually, you become eligible for permanent residence. This status allows you to apply for Serbian citizenship after an additional 5 years if desired. Serbia recently reduced the qualifying period for permanent residence from 5 to 3 years, accelerating the path to long-term settlement.

Online application process

All visa and residence permit applications are now processed through the welcometoserbia.gov.rs portal. The procedure involves five steps: creating an online account, submitting your application with required documents, paying fees, awaiting the decision (average 19 days for work permits), and collecting your biometric card document. Required documents include a valid passport (minimum 90 days validity beyond intended departure with 2 consecutive blank pages), recent passport photos (less than 6 months old), proof of financial means (Serbian minimum wage or bank guarantee), health insurance, proof of accommodation, and a clean criminal record. Additional documents may be required depending on your specific situation (employment contract, university enrollment, etc.). The complete digitalization of the process in 2025 makes procedures considerably smoother than before.

Serbia's job market shows positive momentum with steadily declining unemployment. In 2025, the country employs 2.89 million people with an unemployment rate of 8.5% in Q2, improved from 9.1% in Q1. The average net salary ranges around RSD 95,000 to 109,000 per month (approximately EUR 810-930 or USD 860-1,000), while the minimum wage was raised by 13.7% in 2025 to RSD 56,672 monthly (approximately EUR 485 or USD 515) for 184 working hours.

High-demand sectors for skilled workers

Several sectors offer strong opportunities for qualified professionals. Information technology is experiencing rapid growth, actively seeking developers, software engineers, and cybersecurity experts. The construction sector faces skilled labor shortages, particularly for engineers and project managers. Healthcare recruits doctors and medical staff, while transport and logistics sectors expand in line with infrastructure investments. Manufacturing industries, notably automotive and machinery, along with energy and mining, also provide openings for technical profiles.

Work conditions and benefits

The standard work week in Serbia is 40 hours, typically spread over 5 days. Employees receive a minimum of 20 days paid vacation annually, plus national holidays. The social security system covers employees for health, pension, and unemployment, with contributions shared between employer and employee. Work environments vary considerably by sector: international companies and tech startups tend to offer modern, flexible conditions, while traditional structures may be more hierarchical.

Starting your own business

Serbia encourages foreign entrepreneurship with no minimum investment requirement for residence through business establishment. The procedure involves registering your company, obtaining a Type D visa, then applying for the unified permit combining residence and work authorization. The country offers attractive tax rates for entrepreneurs with a 15% corporate tax and various incentives depending on economic zones. Registration can be completed within days through the Serbian Business Registers Agency. For freelancers and self-employed individuals, sole proprietorship status is accessible and benefits from the same 10% flat income tax rate.

Employment market: key figures

To give you a concrete picture of Serbia's professional landscape, here are the main economic and salary indicators for the 2025 job market.

Sources: Trading Economics, Statistical Office of Serbia, Numbeo

Whether as an employee or entrepreneur, Serbia offers an evolving professional environment with competitive labor costs and a clear intention to attract international talent. Tech sectors and business services are particularly dynamic for qualified expats.

Serbia offers an accessible, decent-quality higher education system with several universities recognized in the Balkans region. If you're a student or your children are considering university studies in Serbia, here's what you need to know about major institutions and enrollment procedures.

University of Belgrade

The University of Belgrade, founded in 1808, is the country's largest and oldest higher education institution. It comprises about thirty faculties scattered throughout the capital, covering a wide range of disciplines: sciences, engineering, medicine, law, economics, architecture, philosophy, and arts. Courses are predominantly taught in Serbian, but a growing number of programs are offered in English, particularly at master's and doctoral levels, especially in scientific and technical fields.

The university is free for Serbian citizens and students who pass entrance exams with good results. International students typically pay tuition fees varying by faculty and program, ranging from EUR 1,000 to 6,000 annually (USD 1,070-6,420). Awarded degrees are internationally recognized under the Bologna Process, facilitating academic and professional mobility in Europe. The university collaborates with numerous European institutions via the Erasmus+ program.

University of Novi Sad

The University of Novi Sad is Serbia's second-largest university. Founded in 1960, it offers diverse programs with strong orientation toward technical sciences, agriculture, and natural sciences. The university comprises 14 faculties and also offers English-language programs, particularly in engineering and management sciences. International student tuition fees are similar to Belgrade. Novi Sad, smaller and less expensive than Belgrade, offers a pleasant student living environment with a dynamic cultural scene.

Private universities

Several private institutions have developed in recent years, offering programs often entirely in English to attract international students. Among the most reputable are Singidunum University in Belgrade, specializing in management, tourism, and computer science, and Metropolitan University, offering programs in engineering, arts, and management. Private tuition fees are higher, typically EUR 3,000-8,000 annually (USD 3,210-8,560), but English-language instruction and modern facilities compensate this cost for some students.

Admission requirements and student life

To enter a Serbian university, international students generally must present their secondary education diploma (high school diploma or equivalent), transcripts, proof of language proficiency (Serbian or English depending on program) via tests like TOEFL or IELTS for English, and sometimes pass faculty-specific entrance exams. Documents must be translated into Serbian by a sworn translator.

Student life in Serbia is affordable: university residences cost EUR 50-100 monthly (USD 54-107), and renting a studio or shared room ranges from EUR 150-350 (USD 160-375). University canteens offer meals at RSD 200-300 (USD 2-3). International students can obtain a temporary residence permit for studies by presenting their university enrollment certificate, proof of financial means, and health insurance. Belgrade offers very attractive nightlife and cultural scene for young people, making the student experience stimulating.

Serbia maintains a developing transportation network with a landmark 2025 measure: completely free public transport in Belgrade. This initiative places the Serbian capital among the rare large European cities offering this free service, significantly easing residents' lives. Nationally, the road network is improving and intercity connections remain affordable.

Free public transport in Belgrade

Since January 1, 2025, all Belgrade public transport is completely free for residents and visitors alike. This measure covers buses, trolleybuses, trams, and suburban trains (BG Voz). No ticket needed—simply board. The network is managed by public company GSP Beograd and generally operates from 4:00 AM to midnight, with reduced night lines. This free service represents an annual saving of approximately EUR 360 (USD 385) per person and makes Belgrade particularly attractive for budget-conscious expats.

The network comprises over 150 lines covering the entire metropolitan area. Historic trams traverse downtown, buses serve all neighborhoods, and BG Voz quickly connects peripheral zones to the center. While crowding can be heavy during rush hours and some vehicles' condition may be aging, this free service offers an excellent alternative to private cars.

Taxis and ride-hailing

Taxis are affordable in Belgrade, but favor apps like CarGo, Yandex Taxi, or official taxis ordered by phone to avoid tourist scams. An average city ride costs RSD 400-800 (USD 3.50-7). Starting fare is around RSD 200 then approximately RSD 100 per km. Avoid taxis stationed at tourist sites which often charge excessive rates.

Personal vehicle

Owning a car can be useful for exploring the country or if living in suburbs. Gasoline costs about RSD 200 per liter (USD 1.70), which remains reasonable. The highway network has improved considerably with notably Corridor 10 linking Belgrade to Niš then the Macedonian border, and Corridor 11 toward Croatia. Tolls are modest. Foreign driver's licenses are valid for 1 year in Serbia, after which exchange for a Serbian license is necessary. Car insurance is mandatory and costs EUR 200-500 annually (USD 215-535) depending on vehicle. Driving in Serbia can sometimes be chaotic, especially in Belgrade where rules aren't always scrupulously respected.

Cycling and soft mobility

Cycling is gaining popularity in Belgrade, though cycling infrastructure remains limited. Some areas like Novi Beograd and Danube riverbanks have bike paths. Bike-sharing services like Nextbike allow hourly rentals. The historic center's hilly topography may discourage occasional cyclists. Electric scooter sharing is also present via apps like Bolt or Lime.

Intercity transport

For travel between Serbian cities, buses are the most practical and economical means. Belgrade's main bus station (Beogradska Autobuska Stanica - BAS) serves the entire country. A Belgrade-Novi Sad journey (about 1h30) costs RSD 500-700 (USD 4-6), Belgrade-Niš (3h) approximately RSD 1,200 (USD 10). Trains exist but the rail network is less developed and slower than buses, though modernizations are underway. For travel to neighboring countries, regular international bus lines connect Belgrade to Zagreb, Budapest, Sarajevo, or Sofia at competitive prices. Belgrade's Nikola Tesla Airport is well-connected to major European capitals with low-cost carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair, plus national carrier Air Serbia.

Serbia stands out in Europe with its remarkably attractive tax system. The country implements a straightforward, transparent taxation structure, notably featuring a flat 10% personal income tax rate—among the continent's lowest. This favorable tax policy, combined with an extensive network of double taxation treaties that eliminates double taxation for many countries, makes Serbia an appealing destination for optimizing your tax situation while enjoying quality living.

Personal income tax

Serbia's tax system applies a flat 10% rate on personal income, whether from employment, self-employment, or other sources. This rate applies after deducting a non-taxable allowance. Since January 2025, this exempt amount has been raised to RSD 26,804 per month (approximately EUR 229 or USD 245), totaling RSD 321,648 annually (approximately EUR 2,750 or USD 2,945). To qualify for the full exemption, your monthly income must not exceed 4 times the minimum wage, roughly RSD 226,700 (EUR 1,940 or USD 2,075) in 2025. Above this threshold, a partial degressive exemption applies up to 6 times the minimum wage. Non-tax residents are taxed at 20% on their Serbian-source income.

Social security contributions

In addition to income tax, employees and employers pay social security contributions funding the social security system. Employee contributions represent 19.9% of gross salary, covering pension (14%), health insurance (5.15%), and unemployment insurance (0.75%). Employer contributions amount to 16.15%, divided between pension (11%) and health insurance (5.15%). These rates apply up to a capped base of 5 times the average salary, approximately RSD 545,000 per month in 2025. Self-employed individuals pay both employee and employer portions on a declared basis.

Value-added tax (VAT)

The standard VAT rate in Serbia is 20%, applicable to most goods and services. A reduced rate of 10% applies to essential items like basic foodstuffs, medicines, newspapers, and certain public services. Exports and certain international transactions benefit from VAT exemption. Companies with turnover exceeding RSD 8 million (approximately EUR 68,400 or USD 73,200) must register for VAT.

Capital gains and investment income

Real estate capital gains are taxed at 15%, with possible exemptions for primary residences held over 10 years. Dividend income is subject to a 15% rate, while interest on deposits and bonds may be taxed at varying rates depending on their nature. Capital gains from securities (stocks, bonds) are also taxed at 15%. Withholding taxes apply to certain cross-border payments, though tax treaties often reduce or eliminate these levies.

Tax treaties and residency

Serbia has signed over 60 double taxation treaties, facilitating international mobility and avoiding double taxation. You're considered a Serbian tax resident if you spend more than 183 days annually in the country or if your center of economic and personal interests is located there. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents are only taxed on Serbian-source income. US citizens should note that the US taxes worldwide income regardless of residence, though the US-Serbia tax treaty provides relief mechanisms. The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) requires US persons to report foreign financial accounts, and Serbian banks comply with FATCA reporting requirements.

Tax filing and obligations

Employees typically have tax withheld at source by their employer. The annual tax return must be filed by May 15 for the previous year's income. Self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs must make monthly or quarterly advance payments. The Tax Administration of the Republic of Serbia (Poreska Uprava) handles tax matters and offers online services to facilitate procedures. While Serbia's tax system is simple in its rates, complexities may arise depending on your situation. Consulting a local accountant is advisable, especially if you receive income from multiple sources or countries.

Serbia's healthcare system combines a public sector accessible to all residents with a rapidly developing private sector. For expats, understanding this dual system and choosing appropriate health coverage is essential for peace of mind. Basic care is affordable, though quality can vary significantly between public facilities and private clinics.

Public health insurance

Serbia's public healthcare system, the National Health Insurance Fund (Republički fond za zdravstveno osiguranje - RFZO), covers all legal residents. If you work in Serbia, your social security contributions (5.15% of salary) automatically grant access to the public system. Basic care is free or requires modest co-payments. However, wait times can be lengthy for specialist consultations and non-urgent procedures. Care quality varies by facility, with university medical centers in Belgrade and Novi Sad generally better equipped than rural structures.

Private health insurance: a popular alternative

Many expats opt for private health insurance to supplement or replace public coverage. Private clinics offer reduced wait times, superior comfort, and often English-speaking staff. Costs vary considerably based on age, health status, and coverage extent, but generally remain well below Western European rates. International insurers like Allianz, Cigna, or Bupa offer plans tailored to expats, sometimes covering care both in Serbia and abroad. Annual premiums range from EUR 500 to 3,000 (USD 535-3,200) depending on selected benefits.

Private healthcare network

The private sector has expanded considerably in recent years, particularly in Belgrade where modern clinics like Bel Medic, Dr Ristić, and Eurofarm operate. These facilities offer specialized consultations, medical analyses, outpatient surgery, and emergency services with excellent service levels. A general practitioner consultation costs approximately RSD 2,000-4,000 (EUR 17-34 or USD 18-36), while specialist consultations range from RSD 3,000-6,000 (EUR 25-51 or USD 27-55). Dental care is particularly affordable in Serbia, even attracting medical tourism from neighboring countries.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies (apoteka) are numerous and easily accessible in all cities. Many medications available only by prescription elsewhere can be purchased over-the-counter in Serbia. Prices are significantly lower than Western European rates. Some pharmacies offer 24/7 on-call service. Building a basic first-aid kit with your regular medications is advisable, as not all treatments may be locally available.

Emergency situations

In medical emergencies, dial 194 for an ambulance. Emergency services are free for everyone, residents or not. Belgrade's main hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments. The Clinical Center of Serbia in Belgrade is the country's largest medical facility. For expats, it's wise to identify nearby healthcare facilities in advance and verify whether your private insurance includes emergency assistance. Many private clinics also offer emergency services with typically shorter wait times than public facilities.

Education in Serbia offers multiple possibilities for expat families, from the free local public system to private international schools. Your choice will depend on your long-term plans, budget, and your children's Serbian language proficiency. Belgrade's international schools offer globally recognized programs, while integration into the local system can provide excellent cultural immersion.

Serbian education system

Public schooling in Serbia is free and compulsory from ages 6 to 15. The system comprises primary education (osnovna škola) lasting 8 years, followed by secondary education (srednja škola) lasting 4 years. Public schools teach in Serbian and follow the national curriculum. Some schools offer bilingual classes or enhanced foreign language programs. Education quality is decent in major cities but may vary in rural areas. Integration into the local system requires strong Serbian language skills and may be more suitable for young children or families planning long-term settlement.

International schools in Belgrade

Belgrade has several quality international schools, primarily located in the Dedinje and Senjak neighborhoods. The International School of Belgrade (ISB) is the most reputable, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from kindergarten through high school. Tuition fees range from EUR 10,500 annually for kindergarten to EUR 24,500 for high school (2025-2026). The school hosts approximately 400 students from over 60 nationalities and features excellent facilities. The teaching staff is predominantly English-speaking, and the institution is accredited by the Council of International Schools.

The Eighth Belgrade Gymnasium is an elite public school offering a bilingual Serbian-English program that's highly sought after. It provides quality education at reduced cost, though places are limited and admission is competitive. Other establishments like Eurocollege or religious schools also offer curricula in English or other languages.

Alternative education options

For families prioritizing education in other languages, there's no homologated French, German, or Spanish school in Belgrade, but some families use distance learning programs like the UK's International Schools Distance Learning or similar services, complementing them with local social activities. Private tutoring and academic support are accessible and affordable, with English-speaking tutors available to assist your children. Expat associations also organize after-school activities in various languages, facilitating children's social integration.

Costs and enrollment

Enrollment in an international school typically requires a complete academic record, report cards from previous years, a letter of recommendation, and sometimes admission tests. Starting the process several months before your desired enrollment date is advisable, as places are limited. Beyond annual tuition fees, budget for one-time registration fees (typically EUR 2,000-4,000 or USD 2,150-4,300), plus costs for uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular activities, and school transport. Some companies relocating employees to Serbia cover all or part of these education costs—don't hesitate to negotiate this benefit in your expat package.

Serbia's real estate market offers excellent value compared to Western Europe, whether you're looking to rent or buy. Belgrade concentrates most expat demand with varied offerings from modern downtown studios to suburban villas with gardens. Prices have seen moderate increases in recent years due to investor and new resident influx, but remain highly accessible compared to European capitals.

Renting: prices and procedures

Renting is the preferred option for initial settlement. In Belgrade, expect to pay EUR 400-700 per month (USD 430-750) for a 2-bedroom apartment in central areas like Vračar or Stari Grad. Residential neighborhoods favored by expats such as Dedinje or Senjak command higher rents, EUR 800-1,500 (USD 855-1,600) for spacious, well-maintained properties. In peripheral areas or less central neighborhoods like Novi Beograd, you'll find options from EUR 300-500 (USD 320-535) for similar accommodations.

Leases are typically concluded for minimum 1 year, with renewal options. Landlords usually require a security deposit equivalent to 1-2 months' rent, plus the first month paid in advance. Utilities (water, heating, electricity, internet) may add EUR 100-200 monthly (USD 107-215) depending on season and size. Using a local real estate agency is recommended to avoid scams and ensure proper contracts. Agency fees typically represent half a month's rent.

Buying property

If you're considering medium or long-term investment, foreigners can purchase real estate without major restrictions. Belgrade prices vary considerably by neighborhood: expect EUR 1,500-2,500 per m² (USD 1,605-2,675) in the historic center, and EUR 1,000-1,800 per m² (USD 1,070-1,925) in peripheral residential areas. Property purchase can also facilitate obtaining a temporary residence permit. Notary and registration fees represent approximately 5% of purchase price. Strongly consider engaging a local real estate attorney to secure the transaction and verify the property's history.

Recommended neighborhoods for expats

Vračar is Belgrade's bohemian cultural quarter, prized for its cafés, restaurants, and lively neighborhood atmosphere. It's well-served by transport and close to downtown. Dedinje and Senjak are upscale, quiet, green residential neighborhoods hosting embassies and the International School of Belgrade. They particularly attract families with children. Stari Grad (Old Town) offers historic charm with period buildings, pedestrian streets, and proximity to cultural sites. Novi Beograd, on the Danube's left bank, is a more modern district with numerous recent buildings, shopping centers, and sports infrastructure—ideal for those seeking modern comfort at reduced prices.

Practical advice

When searching for housing, prioritize in-person visits and check the property's general condition, heating functionality (crucial in winter), water pressure, and soundproofing. Older apartments may have charm but require renovations. Ensure your rental contract is officially registered with Serbian tax authorities, as this registration is necessary for your residence permit. Don't hesitate to negotiate rent, especially for long-term commitments. Finally, join Facebook expat groups in Belgrade where numerous listings and recommendations regularly circulate.

An international move requires meticulous preparation to avoid unpleasant surprises. Whether arriving with a few suitcases or a full container, here's a detailed checklist to organize your Serbian relocation smoothly. Anticipating each step allows you to focus on your new life rather than logistics.

Pre-departure checklist

1. Administrative documents: Gather all official documents (passports, birth certificates, diplomas, driver's license, medical records) and obtain certified copies. Some will need Serbian translation by a sworn translator.
2. Visa and residence permit: Start visa procedures well before departure. Create your account on welcometoserbia.gov.rs and submit your online application with all required documents.
3. Health insurance: Arrange international or local health insurance before arrival, as it's mandatory for obtaining your residence permit. Ensure coverage from your arrival day.
4. Finances: Notify your bank of your move to prevent card blocking. Consider opening a Serbian bank account shortly after arrival to facilitate local payments. Banks like Raiffeisen Bank, UniCredit, or Erste Bank regularly welcome foreign clients.
5. Housing: Book temporary accommodation for your first weeks (Airbnb, hotel) and prepare your search for permanent housing. Have local real estate agency contacts ready.
6. International mover: If transporting furniture and large personal effects, request multiple quotes from companies specializing in Balkans relocations. Expect EUR 2,000-5,000 (USD 2,150-5,350) depending on volume from Western Europe.
7. Customs: Research customs regulations for importing your personal belongings. Personal effects and furniture are typically duty-exempt if you can prove ownership for over 6 months.
8. Electricity and electronics: Serbia uses Type C and F plugs (European standard) with 230V voltage. Your European appliances will work without adapters. However, bring power strips as older properties sometimes have few outlets.
9. Driver's license: Your foreign license is valid in Serbia for 1 year. After that, you'll need to exchange it for a Serbian license. The exchange is straightforward and typically doesn't require retaking the exam.
10. Pets: If bringing a pet, ensure it's microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations (rabies mandatory), and has a pet passport. A veterinary health certificate less than 10 days old may be required.

First weeks on the ground

Once in Serbia, several administrative procedures await promptly. You'll need to register with local police within 24 hours of arrival (your host can do this for you). Open a local bank account to facilitate rent and bill payments. Get a Serbian SIM card from operators like Telekom Srbija, Telenor, or Yettel for an affordable local plan. Take time to explore your neighborhood, locate essential shops (supermarket, pharmacy, doctor), and familiarize yourself with public transport. Joining online expat groups helps you ask questions and quickly build a social network.

Serbia offers rich cultural and social life, particularly in Belgrade which has established itself as a sought-after party destination in Europe. Between historical heritage, vibrant music scene, sports, and accessible nature, you won't lack activities to enjoy your new life. Entertainment costs remain very affordable, allowing frequent outings without straining your budget.

Cultural and nightlife scene

Belgrade is renowned for having one of Europe's most animated nightlife scenes. The splavovi—floating clubs on the Sava and Danube rivers—embody the capital's festive spirit with unique atmosphere and events until dawn. The Savamala district has transformed into a creative hub with alternative bars, art galleries, and cultural spaces like KC Grad. The music scene is diverse, from traditional jazz in Skadarlija cellars to electronic and alternative music concerts.

For culture, don't miss the National Museum of Serbia housing an impressive art collection, Kalemegdan Fortress offering panoramic views of the river confluence, or the Royal Palace and Temple of Saint Sava, one of the world's largest Orthodox churches. The Nikola Tesla Museum pays tribute to Serbia's world-renowned inventor.

Sports and outdoor activities

Serbians are passionate about sports, particularly basketball and football. Attending a Red Star Belgrade (Crvena Zvezda) or Partizan match is an electrifying and accessible experience (tickets RSD 500-2,000 or USD 4-17). For nature lovers, the Šar Mountains, Mount Kopaonik, and Zlatibor offer summer hiking and winter skiing at modest prices. The Uvac Gorge and Đerdap National Park (Iron Gates) along the Danube are spectacular natural sites perfect for weekend escapes.

Gastronomy and social life

Serbian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, blending Balkan and Ottoman influences. Try local specialties like ćevapi (small grilled sausages), pljeskavica (meat patty), sarma (stuffed cabbage), or ajvar (pepper spread). A complete meal in a traditional restaurant costs RSD 800-1,500 (USD 7-13), and a local beer about RSD 250 (USD 2). Cafés are ubiquitous and form the heart of Serbian social life. Groups commonly spend hours over traditional Turkish coffee.

Excursions and weekend trips

Serbia's central position enables easily accessible escapes to neighboring countries. Novi Sad, the country's second city, hosts the famous EXIT music festival every July and features a historic fortress overlooking the Danube. Niš, birthplace of Constantine the Great, offers Roman remains and a more relaxed atmosphere. Medieval Serbian monasteries, UNESCO World Heritage sites like Studenica or Sopoćani, are worth visiting for their architecture and exceptional frescoes. Within a few hours' drive, you can also explore Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, or Hungary, making long weekends particularly attractive.

Settling into daily life in Serbia requires understanding certain essential services. From banking to telecommunications, shopping to public utilities, here's what you need to know to facilitate your practical integration.

Opening a bank account

Opening a Serbian bank account is an important step for simplifying your local financial management. Major international banks present in Serbia include Raiffeisen Bank, UniCredit, Erste Bank, and Intesa Sanpaolo, along with local banks like Komercijalna Banka. To open an account, you'll need your passport, proof of residence (rental contract or accommodation certificate), and sometimes your residence permit. Some banks accept account opening with just a long-stay visa.

Banking services include international debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), online payments, high-performing mobile apps, and ubiquitous ATMs. Banking fees are reasonable, with basic checking accounts often free or charged RSD 200-500 monthly (USD 2-4). Banks generally operate in English at branches in major cities.

Mobile and internet

The three main mobile operators are Telekom Srbija (formerly MTS), Telenor, and Yettel (ex-Telenor). Network coverage is good throughout the country, with 4G/5G available in urban areas. Prepaid plans are popular and very affordable: expect RSD 1,000-1,500 monthly (USD 9-13) for a plan including unlimited calls, SMS, and data. SIM cards are available at operator shops and kiosks. To subscribe, you'll need identification and sometimes proof of residence.

For home internet, operators offer fiber optics in urban areas with high speeds. A high-speed internet subscription costs RSD 2,000-3,500 monthly (USD 17-30). Combined bundles (internet + landline + television) are common and economical.

Shopping and retail

Supermarkets are ubiquitous with local chains like Maxi, Idea, Tempo, and Univerexport, plus international brands like Lidl and Aldi. Food prices are significantly lower than Western Europe. Traditional markets (pijaca) offer fruits, vegetables, and fresh products at unbeatable prices and serve as important social gathering places. For imported or specialty products, stores like DM (drugstore) and shopping centers offer wide selections.

Modern shopping malls are numerous in Belgrade: Usce Shopping Center, Delta City, Rajiceva Shopping Center, and Galerija Belgrade feature international boutiques, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment areas.

Public and administrative services

Electricity, heating, and water are generally reliable. EPS (Elektroprivreda Srbije) supplies electricity at among Europe's lowest rates. Utility bills can increase significantly in winter due to heating. Many buildings use urban central heating (toplana), billed based on apartment size.

Administrative procedures are gradually digitalizing. The eUprava portal provides access to numerous online services. However, some procedures still require physical visits to administrative offices. Serbian language proficiency or translator assistance may be necessary for complex procedures.

Postal services and deliveries

Pošta Srbije (Serbian Post) provides postal service with offices in every neighborhood. Domestic mail is reliable and inexpensive. For international parcels, services like DHL, FedEx, and DExpress are available. Home grocery deliveries are developing with apps like Glovo, Wolt, and Donesi delivering food, groceries, and various products within tens of minutes.

Learning Serbian

While English is increasingly widespread among youth and in business sectors, learning Serbian will greatly facilitate your integration and daily interactions. Several Belgrade language schools offer courses for expats, like Alfa Centar or Skrivanek. Online courses and apps like Duolingo or Memrise provide free introductions. Serbian uses both Cyrillic and Latin alphabets, both official, which may seem confusing initially but is learned quickly with practice.

Serbia's cost of living represents one of the country's main attractions for expats. Overall, daily expenses are 40-50% lower than major Western European cities, allowing comfortable living on a modest budget or significant savings if you maintain a Western salary. Belgrade, while more expensive than the rest of the country, remains very affordable compared to London, Toronto, or Sydney.

Monthly budget for a single person

To provide a concrete estimate of monthly expenses for a single expat living in Belgrade, here's a detailed budget based on August 2025 data.

Source: Numbeo (August 2025)

Monthly budget for a family of four

For a family with two school-age children, the budget naturally increases with larger housing and school fees if choosing an international school.

Source: Numbeo (August 2025)

Daily price references

To complete your cost of living picture, here are some common prices: a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about RSD 800 (USD 7), a cappuccino at a café RSD 250 (USD 2.15), a local beer RSD 250 (USD 2.15), a fast-food combo RSD 700 (USD 6). A cinema ticket runs around RSD 600 (USD 5), a monthly gym membership RSD 3,000-5,000 (USD 25-43). Gasoline is approximately RSD 200 per liter (USD 1.70), and a monthly transport pass (unnecessary in Belgrade where it's now free) would cost around RSD 3,000 (USD 25) in other cities.

These rates allow comfortable living in Serbia without deprivation while enjoying a pleasant lifestyle. Purchasing power is particularly attractive if you earn in euros or dollars, making Serbia a prime destination for remote workers and retirees.