Serbia is gaining attention among global employers for its strategic location , growing tech talent, and favorable business climate. But before hiring foreign talent in Serbia, it's crucial to understand how work visas and authorizations function under local regulations. This guide walks through the types of work visas, employer responsibilities, the application process, and how an Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify hiring in Serbia.
Understanding work visas in Serbia
Foreign nationals must obtain a work visa and temporary residence permit to work legally in Serbia. These two permits are often processed simultaneously and are mandatory for any non-Serbian citizen employed in the country.
Types of Serbian work visas
Serbia primarily issues a Type D visa, a long-stay visa that allows entry for employment purposes. Once inside Serbia, foreign workers must apply for both a temporary residence permit and a work permit, issued by the Ministry of Interior and the National Employment Service, respectively.
- Type D visa. Allows entry and stay for up to 90 days to initiate residence and work permit procedures.
- Temporary residence permit. Typically granted for up to one year and renewable.
- Work permit. Can be tied to an employer or job-specific role, also usually valid for one year.
For more clarity on long-stay visa requirements, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' overview of visa requirements.
Eligibility criteria for employers and employees
Employers in Serbia must prove that:
- No suitable Serbian candidates are available for the position.
- They are legally registered and in good standing.
- They are offering a legal employment contract and fair working conditions.
Employees must:
- Have a valid passport and clean criminal record.
- Provide evidence of professional qualifications.
- Be physically present in Serbia during the application process.
Steps to obtain a work visa and authorization
Preparing necessary documentation
Applicants will need the following:
- Valid passport
- Job offer or signed employment contract
- Proof of educational qualifications
- Employer's registration details
- Health insurance coverage
- Police clearance certificate
- Recent photographs
Application process
- The employer secures the Type D visa from a Serbian consulate abroad.
- Upon arrival, the employee applies for a temporary residence permit with the Ministry of Interior.
- Simultaneously, the employer applies for a work permit through the National Employment Service.
The dual application process ensures both residence and employment are approved before the foreign national begins working.
Employer obligations and responsibilities
How employers can sponsor a visa
Sponsoring a work visa requires a formal job offer and registration of the employment relationship with the Serbian authorities. Employers must also maintain records of their foreign workforce and ensure legal compliance throughout employment.
Compliance with Serbian employment laws
Employers must align with Serbia's Labor Law and Law on Employment of Foreigners, ensuring fair pay, adequate work conditions, and non-discrimination. Violations can result in fines, visa revocations, and reputational damage.
The Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs provides full legislative details on labor compliance. Employers who are assigning staff across EU regions may also need to review their A1 Certificate obligations to remain compliant with social security regulations.
Hiring an EOR provider in Serbia
Benefits of using an EOR provider
Hiring through an EOR means employers can onboard talent in Serbia without establishing a local entity. An EOR acts as the legal employer, handling compliance, payroll, benefits, and visa sponsorship while the client company maintains operational control.
An EOR is especially useful when:
- Testing new markets
- Avoiding legal risk in a foreign jurisdiction
- Reducing overhead and administrative burden
Selection criteria for EOR providers
Key factors to evaluate include:
- Experience managing work visas in Serbia
- Familiarity with Serbian labor laws
- Transparent pricing models
- Multilingual support
This guide to hiring through an EOR highlights the top considerations. For a broader perspective, see how companies are navigating common human capital management challenges.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners work in Serbia?
Yes, as long as they secure both a temporary residence permit and a work visa. Serbia welcomes international workers, particularly in IT, manufacturing, and professional services.
Is a Serbian visa easy to obtain?
While not overly complex, the process requires coordination, documentation, and time. Working with an EOR or legal expert can reduce obstacles and ensure a smoother process.
What is a Type D visa in Serbia?
The Type D visa is a national visa allowing foreign nationals to enter Serbia for long-term stays-typically to begin employment or residence procedures.
Tips and resources for a successful application
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documents
- Applying too late relative to employment start date
- Not confirming qualifications with Serbian standards
Timeframes and expectations
Expect the entire process to take 4-8 weeks, depending on the applicant's location and responsiveness of authorities. Starting early and consulting with experts can help minimize delays.
How Velocity Global can help
Velocity Global helps companies hire, onboard, and pay international talent-without opening a local Serbian entity. With our trusted Employer of Record (EOR) solution, Velocity Global simplifies compliance with Serbia's labor and immigration laws while giving employers peace of mind.
Backed by an in-house legal team and experience in 185+ countries, Velocity Global enables employers to focus on growth-not bureaucracy. For more on how Velocity Global can support global hiring strategies, visit our Serbia hiring guide or contact us today.
This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided "as is," and no representations are made that the content is error-free.
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