Who Needs a Work Permit in Serbia
A work permit is required for any non-Serbian national intending to work in Serbia, regardless of the industry or position. Employers seeking to hire foreign employees must ensure that these employees obtain the necessary work permits before commencing employment. This applies to full-time employees, contractual workers, and expatriates relocated to Serbia for business purposes. Short-term business visits and intra-company transfers may be exempt depending on the duration and nature of the work.
Types of Work Visas in Serbia
Serbia offers several types of work visas to accommodate different categories of foreign workers. Employers should select the appropriate visa based on the employee's role and the nature of the work.
Visa Type | Description |
Temporary Residence Visa | Issued to foreign nationals who plan to stay in Serbia for more than 90 days for work-related purposes. |
Work Permit for Employment | Required for foreign nationals hired by a Serbian company or employer for long-term employment. |
Self-Employment Permit | Granted to individuals intending to run their own business in Serbia. |
Intra-Company Transfer Permit | For employees transferred within the same company to a Serbian branch or affiliate. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Serbia
When hiring talent inSerbia, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Serbia. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 15 to 30 days), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Serbia.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Serbia
Independent professionals in Serbia can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Euro (EUR) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Serbia.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Serbia
Transferring an existing team member to Serbia? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Serbia
To obtain a work permit in Serbia, employers and employees must meet several requirements to ensure compliance with Serbian immigration laws.
- Valid Passport: The foreign employee must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Employment Contract: A signed contract or job offer specifying the role, salary, and duration of employment.
- Proof of Qualifications: Documentation demonstrating the employee’s qualifications or professional experience relevant to the job.
- Medical Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay.
- Clean Criminal Record: Certificate confirming the employee has no criminal record, issued by their home country.
- Financial Means: Evidence that the employee or employer can financially support the employee during their stay.
Serbia Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: Submit a Temporary Residence Application: The employee applies for temporary residence at the local police department or consulate.
- Step 2: Employer Application for Work Permit: The employer submits a work permit application to the National Employment Service (NES).
- Step 3: Provide Supporting Documents: Submit required documents such as employment contracts, proof of qualifications, and identification.
- Step 4: Await Approval: The application is processed, and approval or rejection is issued within the stipulated timeframe.
- Step 5: Receive Permit: Once approved, the employee receives their work permit and can commence work in Serbia.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Serbia
Employers in Serbia can sponsor foreign employees by applying for a work permit on their behalf. This process involves demonstrating the need for hiring a foreign worker and ensuring that no qualified Serbian nationals are available for the role. Employers must provide an employment contract, company registration documents, and proof of the employee's qualifications. Once the work permit is approved, the employee can apply for the corresponding visa or residence permit.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Serbia
The costs associated with work permits and visas vary depending on the type of permit.
Visa Type | Application Fee |
Temporary Residence Visa | €100 |
Work Permit for Employment | €150 |
Self-Employment Permit | €200 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Serbia
The processing time for a work permit in Serbia typically takes between 15 to 30 days. For visas, the processing time may range from 7 to 14 days, depending on the type of visa and the applicant's country of origin. Delays may occur if additional documents or clarifications are needed.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Serbia
Work permits in Serbia are usually valid for up to 12 months and can be renewed. Employers must apply for renewal before the current permit expires. The renewal process involves providing updated documentation, including proof of continued employment and residence. Processing times for renewals are similar to initial applications, typically taking 15 to 30 days.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Serbia
Serbia does not currently have a specific visa for digital nomads, but remote workers can apply for a temporary residence visa if they intend to stay for more than 90 days. Employers may need to guide their remote employees through this process.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
- Proof of Remote Work: Evidence that the applicant is employed by a foreign company.
- Financial Means: Proof of sufficient income to support their stay.
- Accommodation Details: Proof of residence in Serbia.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Serbia
Hiring foreign employees in Serbia can come with its own set of challenges.
- Bureaucracy: The application process may involve complex paperwork and long processing times.
- Language Barriers: Many official documents and processes are conducted in Serbian, requiring translation services.
- Compliance: Ensuring all legal and regulatory requirements are met to avoid penalties or delays.