Living in Belgrade: the ultimate expat guide

Belgrade's economy has been growing steadily, with unemployment rates declining to 8.5% in Q2 2025. The city's job market is particularly strong in information technology, which contributes nearly 10% of Serbia's GDP, with exports exceeding €3.5 billion annually. The ICT sector employs over 50,000 professionals across more than 4,000 companies, making it the country's fastest-growing export category. International companies have recognized Belgrade's potential, with major employers including Microsoft, Huawei, Oracle Cloud, Intel, Dell, and Nordeus operating development centers in the city.

Key Industries and Opportunities

Beyond technology, Belgrade offers opportunities in manufacturing, automotive (with Fiat and Volkswagen plants), financial services, healthcare, and creative industries. The gaming industry is particularly vibrant, with over 70 studios employing more than 1,500 professionals. Remote work and digital nomad visas have also made Belgrade attractive to freelancers and international remote workers seeking an affordable European base.

Work Permits and Employment Process

Foreign nationals require a Type D visa for employment purposes and a Single Permit that combines residence and work authorization, valid for up to 3 years. Since 2024, applicants can begin working immediately after submitting their Single Permit application. Employers typically sponsor work permits and must conduct a labor market test through the National Employment Service (NES) to confirm no local candidates are available. Processing time averages 15 to 30 days. EU citizens still require work permits as Serbia is not yet an EU member, though this may change upon future accession.

Sources: Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia, Trading Economics

Belgrade hosts several respected universities offering programs in English and other languages. The University of Belgrade, established in 1808, is the oldest and largest higher education institution in Serbia, with approximately 75,000 students across 31 faculties. Ranked between 401-500 globally in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025, it provides comprehensive programs in sciences, engineering, medicine, law, philosophy, and arts. The university follows the Bologna Process, ensuring compatibility with European higher education standards.

International Programs and Admissions

Several institutions offer English-taught programs, particularly in business, computer science, and engineering. The School of Computing (RAF) is recognized as one of Southeast Europe's leading computer science faculties. Union University, established in 2005, includes faculties in business, law, and real estate management. Educons University and Megatrend University also provide international programs. Tuition fees for international students typically range from €1,000 to €5,000 per year, significantly lower than Western European universities. Admission requirements generally include secondary school transcripts, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS), and specific entrance exams depending on the program.

Student Life and Support

Student dormitories are available starting from 1,000 RSD per month (about $10), though many international students opt for private accommodation near universities. The academic year runs from October to June, divided into two semesters. Belgrade's universities participate in Erasmus+ and other international exchange programs, facilitating mobility and partnerships with institutions worldwide. The city's affordable cost of living makes it particularly attractive for international students.

For detailed information on programs and applications, visit: University of Belgrade

Belgrade offers diverse educational options for expatriate families, including Serbian public schools, private bilingual institutions, and international schools following recognized curricula. The Serbian education system consists of preschool (ages 3-6), primary school (grades 1-8), and secondary school (grades 9-12). While public schools teach primarily in Serbian, several schools offer bilingual programs and dedicated support for non-Serbian speakers.

International Schools

The International School of Belgrade (ISB) is the most established option, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from preschool through grade 12 for students of all nationalities. ISB is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). The school operates two campuses in the Senjak neighborhood and hosts approximately 384 students from 45 countries. Annual tuition ranges from approximately $9,500 for preschool to $26,900 for high school, plus a capital fee of €3,000 for new students.

The British International School Belgrade follows the British curriculum and American high school diploma programs for ages 3-18. Deutsche Schule Belgrad offers German-language education. Other options include International School (Cambridge qualifications), EDUCA (Finnish international school), and Crnjanski School (IB and British curricula). Fees at these schools typically range from 550,000 to 1,700,000 RSD annually (approximately $5,000 to $15,000).

Enrollment Process

International schools typically require application forms, previous school records, recommendation letters, and assessment tests. Application deadlines vary, but early registration is recommended due to limited spaces. Most schools offer extracurricular activities, modern facilities, and native English-speaking teachers. Waiting lists may apply for popular schools, particularly ISB.

Contact information: ISB Official Website, British International School

Belgrade's rental market has become more favorable for tenants in 2025, with prices declining by 10% to 20% in many neighborhoods due to increased supply. However, central and high-demand areas like Belgrade Waterfront, Vračar, and New Belgrade maintain premium pricing. Housing options range from older communist-era apartments to modern developments with smart technology and energy efficiency.

Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods

Dorćol is the most popular district among expats, offering a bohemian atmosphere with trendy cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues in the city center. The neighborhood blends historic architecture with modern amenities and provides excellent walkability. Vračar is a residential area known for its village-like atmosphere despite high population density, home to the iconic St. Sava Temple and numerous local businesses. New Belgrade (Novi Beograd) features modern high-rise complexes, proximity to business centers, and good infrastructure, making it ideal for families and professionals. Senjak and Dedinje are upscale neighborhoods with embassies and villas, offering green spaces and tranquility. Zemun, a charming suburb with cobblestone streets and riverside views, provides a more relaxed atmosphere with lower living costs.

Rental Prices and Procedures

According to recent data, average monthly rent in Belgrade city center is approximately 59,000 RSD ($530) for a one-bedroom apartment and 100,000+ RSD ($900+) for a three-bedroom apartment. Outside the center, prices drop to around 40,000 RSD ($360) for one bedroom and 70,000 RSD ($630) for three bedrooms. Premium areas command higher rates. Rental contracts typically require a one to three-month deposit, proof of employment or income, and registration with local authorities. Utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet) average 12,000-18,000 RSD monthly for an 85m² apartment.

Property Purchase

Real estate prices average €2,900 per m² nationally, with Belgrade's central areas reaching €3,500+ per m². Foreign nationals can purchase property in Serbia, with reciprocity agreements allowing citizens from many countries, including the US, to buy freely. Property purchases incur a 10% VAT for new builds or 2.5% transfer tax for secondary properties.

Sources: Numbeo, local property portals

Belgrade's cultural richness and vibrant social scene make it an exciting place to live. The city blends centuries of history with modern entertainment, offering something for every interest. Museums, galleries, theaters, parks, riverside activities, and legendary nightlife ensure residents never lack things to do.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

The Nikola Tesla Museum celebrates the life and inventions of the famous scientist, featuring over 160,000 original documents and artifacts. The museum is open Monday 10:00-18:00 and Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-20:00, with guided tours costing 800 RSD ($7). The Museum of Yugoslavia houses more than 200,000 artifacts from the Tito era, including the marble mausoleum known as the House of Flowers. The National Museum showcases Serbian and international art from prehistoric times to the modern era. The Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, the city's largest park, offer stunning views of the Danube and Sava rivers' confluence, along with the Military Museum and historical landmarks. The park hosts cultural events, open-air concerts, and provides a green escape in the city center.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Skadarlija, Belgrade's bohemian quarter, features cobblestone streets lined with traditional restaurants offering live music and Serbian cuisine. The neighborhood's artistic atmosphere attracts both locals and tourists. Knez Mihailova Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare, connects Republic Square to Kalemegdan and hosts shops, cafes, and street performers. Belgrade's nightlife is legendary, with floating river clubs (splavovi) along the Sava and Danube offering music and dancing until dawn. The Savamala district has emerged as a creative hub with art galleries, alternative bars, and music venues.

Outdoor Activities and Sports

Ada Ciganlija, known as "Belgrade's Sea," is a river island turned peninsula featuring a beach, water sports, cycling paths, and numerous cafes. The site attracts locals year-round for recreation and relaxation. Belgrade hosts major sporting events and has passionate football fans supporting Red Star Belgrade and Partizan Belgrade. The surrounding countryside offers hiking, cycling, and weekend escapes to national parks.

Daily life in Belgrade combines European urban sophistication with Balkan warmth and hospitality. The city's cafe culture is legendary, with locals spending considerable time socializing over coffee. English is widely spoken in business districts and among younger generations, though learning basic Serbian phrases enhances daily interactions and integration. The Serbian currency is the dinar (RSD), though euros are accepted in some establishments. ATMs are plentiful, and cards are widely accepted in larger venues, but cash remains important for markets and smaller businesses.

Transportation Options

Belgrade's public transportation system includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses operating from early morning until midnight. Single tickets cost approximately 100 RSD ($0.90), with monthly passes around 3,000 RSD ($27). Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or via the Beograd+ mobile app. The city center is compact and walkable, with many attractions within walking distance. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go and Pink Taxi offer convenient alternatives, typically costing 200-500 RSD for short trips. Belgrade is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes expanding throughout the city. The Nikola Tesla Airport connects Belgrade to major European cities, located approximately 18 km from the city center.

Lifestyle and Cultural Habits

Belgrade residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with strong emphasis on social connections and leisure. Dining out is affordable and popular, with traditional Serbian restaurants (kafanas) serving hearty meals accompanied by live music. Smoking is prevalent in many indoor venues, though smoke-free sections are increasingly common. The climate features hot summers (averaging 28°C/82°F) and cold winters (averaging 1°C/34°F), with spring and autumn being particularly pleasant. Healthcare is available through both public and private systems, with private clinics offering shorter wait times and modern facilities for €50-150 monthly insurance.

Belgrade offers one of the most affordable costs of living among European capitals, approximately 38% lower than the United States and 33% less than Berlin. This affordability extends across housing, food, transportation, and entertainment, allowing expats to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on moderate budgets. The official statistics show the average net salary in Belgrade reached 105,590 RSD (approximately $950) in August 2025, though salaries for IT professionals and international companies typically exceed this average.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

Source: Numbeo, November 2025

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Source: Numbeo, November 2025

Additional typical costs include a restaurant meal at 1,200-1,500 RSD ($11-13), cappuccino at 200-250 RSD ($1.80-2.20), and gym membership at 3,500-5,000 RSD monthly ($32-45). Cinema tickets cost approximately 600 RSD ($5.40).