Serbia, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a growing economy, has recently introduced significant changes to its immigration landscape. Some of these have already been adopted in July 2023, but most amendments will enter into force on 1st February 2024.
Key Amendments:
- Foreigners will be able to apply for a single permit instead of two permits (work permit and resident permit).
- Reduced processing time of approximately 20 days instead of 70 days.
- Applications to be submitted online. Currently paperwork needs to be submitted in paper and physically.
- Applications can be submitted from abroad (For visa-free nationals) or while the applicant is in Serbia. At the moment, application from abroad is not possible.
- Personal presence of the applicant will only be required at resident card collection, but not at the time of submitting the paperwork.
When it comes to the labour market test, the new timeline as of February 1st is four days (instead of ten days) and it can be applied for by the employer or an authorized third party.
The recent changes are expected to have a positive impact on businesses operating in Serbia, particularly those looking to attract foreign talent. The unified application process and simplified documentation requirements are anticipated to streamline the hiring process, making it more attractive for businesses to bring in skilled professionals from around the world.
At Eres Legal, we provide corporate immigration services and specialized assistance to meet the global mobility needs of businesses, whether within Europe or on a global scale. Our expertise ensures a smooth process, allowing you to focus on the growth of your business with confidence. Feel free to contact us for your visa & immigration needs in Serbia.
