🇷🇸 Serbia
An affordable non-EU Balkan base with a fast-growing remote-work and entrepreneur scene
Visa Options
- Temporary Residence via Entrepreneur Registration (paušalac) (up to 1 year (renewable)) — Register as a flat-rate entrepreneur (freelancer); no fixed minimum income, but must show sustainable business activity
- Temporary Residence via Employment (up to 1 year (renewable)) — Job offer from a Serbian-registered employer and work permit
- Temporary Residence via Real Estate Ownership (up to 1 year (renewable)) — Ownership of residential property in Serbia
- Permanent Residence (indefinite) — 3 continuous years of temporary residence
Tax Overview
- Income Tax: 10% flat rate on salary income
- Annual Surtax (high earners): Additional 10–15% on income above ~3–6x average annual salary
- Corporate Tax: 15%
- VAT: 20%
Cost of Living
- Comfortable living (single, typical): €600 – €950/mo
- 1BR Apartment (Belgrade, center): €450 – €700/mo
- 1BR Apartment (Novi Sad): €350 – €500/mo
- Groceries: €150 – €230/mo
- Utilities: €90 – €150/mo
- Dining out: €6 – €14/meal
- Public transport: €25 – €35/mo pass
Relocation Checklist
- Obtain a Serbian personal number (JMBG) after registering address
- Open a Serbian bank account
- Apostille and translate required documents
- Register your temporary residence address at local police station
- Register as a flat-rate entrepreneur (if using the paušalac route)
- Apply for the temporary residence permit (white card) at MUP
- Book initial accommodation and secure a rental agreement
- Register with local health insurance provider