With a reputation as an attractive business and investment destination and a great place to live, obtaining Serbian citizenship is more appealing than ever. Serbian citizenship offers the opportunity to live, work, invest, and have access to education and healthcare in this popular European country. The Republic of Serbia is located in Southeast Europe and has a growing economy, a rich culture, good professional and business opportunities, and Serbian passport holders can travel visa-free to countries across Europe.
Serbia also offers an affordable cost of living, particularly when compared to other European countries, and an advantageous tax system, making it attractive to businesspeople and investors. Additionally, some individuals can acquire Serbian citizenship without renouncing their existing nationality, depending on the method of acquisition and the laws of their home country.
There are multiple paths to becoming a Serbian citizen, including through descent, marriage, naturalization, and residency through investment. Residency through investment is recommended for entrepreneurs, investors, and businesspeople, and is an attractive option for those looking to gain Serbian citizenship. Residency through investment will be our focus today.
Why Consider Serbian Citizenship?
There are many reasons why Serbian citizenship is becoming increasingly popular, including:
- Visa-free travel
In 2025, those with a Serbian passport can benefit from visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 130 countries around the world. This includes visa-free travel across Europe and favorable visa conditions across Asia and North and South America. For people who frequently travel for tourism, business, or other purposes, this makes Serbian citizenship an attractive option.
- Affordable cost of living
Compared to many other countries across Europe, Serbia offers a high quality of living at a relatively low cost. Housing, healthcare, and daily expenses are significantly lower than in Western Europe or North America, making it an attractive place for retirees, remote workers, and investors.
- Access to education and healthcare
Citizens of Serbia are entitled to public education and healthcare services, both of which are easily accessible and constantly improving. Families can benefit from free primary and secondary education and affordable university programs.
- Allows for dual citizenship
Does Serbia allow dual citizenship? For some individuals, yes, it does. Serbian descendants, and foreigners who marry a Serbian national are not required to give up their citizenship and can hold a Serbia passport, and other passports. This makes Serbia a popular choice for those who don’t want to renounce their original citizenship.
- Pathway to Europe
Although Serbia is not a member of the European Union (EU), it is an EU candidate country, currently in negotiations to join the EU. This means they have extensive trade and political and travel agreements, meaning Serbian citizens can travel to other European countries with few restrictions. Serbian citizenship also offers potential future access to EU markets and other opportunities.
- Ideal for investors
Serbia is a very business-friendly country and offers favorable conditions for business owners and investors. This includes low corporate taxes, government incentives, and access to regional markets.
- Short pathway to permanent residence
Serbia offers a short pathway to permanent residence after only three consecutive years of living in Serbia. Within these three years, residents can leave Serbia for up to six months or have multiple absences of up to 10 months. Permanent residents then have an easier pathway to citizenship.
Overview of Serbia’s Citizenship Routes
There are multiple routes to Serbian citizenship. Each route has different requirements, timelines, costs, and benefits. Each route will have different eligibility criteria, and you must make sure you fully meet the criteria before applying.
- Serbian citizenship by descent
Also known as jus sanguinis, individuals with at least one parent with Serbian nationality at the time of their birth are typically eligible for Serbian citizenship by descent. Individuals who were not registered as Serbian citizens at birth may still be eligible for citizenship.
- Citizenship by marriage
A foreign national married to a Serbian citizen can apply for citizenship after being married for a minimum of three years and after being granted permanent residence status. The foreigner will need to sign a statement stating that they consider Serbia to be their country.
- Citizenship by exception
Individuals who have made a significant contribution in their field and whose expertise or achievements can benefit Serbia or contribute to its national interests can apply through the Serbia Citizenship by Exception program. This includes exceptional achievements in technology, science, art, and sport.
- Citizenship by residency through an investment
This path involves making a qualifying investment in Serbia (e.g., real estate, business development, or job creation) to obtain a residency permit, which can then lead to permanent residence and eventually citizenship. It is an increasingly popular route for entrepreneurs and international investors.
- Citizenship by admission
Foreigners who have permanent residency status in Serbia may be able to apply for citizenship if they meet the following conditions:
- Above the age of 18 and have not been deprived of business capacity.
- Freed from their foreign citizenship.
- Registered as a permanent resident in Serbia for at least three consecutive years.
- Submission of a signed statement stating that they consider Serbia to be their country.
While Serbia offers multiple pathways to citizenship, today we will focus on how to obtain Serbian citizenship by first securing residency through investment. This route provides a practical and strategic pathway for investors looking to gain long-term rights in Serbia while contributing to the country’s economy.
Residency by Investment: The Path to Serbian Citizenship
Serbia offers a flexible and cost-effective residency-by-investment program that allows foreign nationals to obtain temporary residency through real estate acquisition or investment. By making an eligible investment, typically in real estate or a business, foreign nationals can obtain temporary residence, which can later lead to permanent residency and ultimately citizenship through naturalization.
The Serbian government introduced a decree on the criteria for foreign citizens to be granted a temporary residence permit in Serbia. This decree allows the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs to grant Serbian residence status to private investors. The Decree allows investors to shortcut the usual immigration requirements and some of the requirements for temporary residency.
After a period of temporary residency (for example, by investment ), the foreign investor can apply for permanent residency and, later, Serbian citizenship. This pathway to Serbian citizenship is particularly attractive due to its flexibility, affordability, and potential for long-term settlement in Serbia.
How Does the Residency-by-Investment Program Work?
Serbia does not currently have a specific citizenship by investment program, but investments can lead to permanent residency, which can eventually open a pathway for getting Serbian citizenship. To qualify for Serbian citizenship, the applicant will first need to apply for a temporary residence permit through the Ministry of Internal Affairs- Foreigners’ Department.
Foreign investors can gain Serbian temporary residency by investing in a registered company or business assets. There is no minimum required investment, but real estate can typically cost around €50,000. The initial Serbian residence permit is issued for six months. This route bypasses some standard immigration criteria and includes eligibility for a work permit.
Types of Qualifying Investments and Their Costs
Serbia currently does not offer a dedicated citizenship-by-investment program, but making investments can lead to permanent residency, which may eventually provide a pathway to Serbian citizenship.
- Business investment (Residency by Company Formation)
Foreigners can obtain Serbian residency through investment, which requires buying or establishing a company. This permit will allow investors to reside, work, and conduct business in Serbia. After a while, they would be eligible to apply for permanent residency and eventually, citizenship. This is the most popular route for foreigners applying for residency through investment. There is no minimum required for the company to be formed, and the company needs to be registered with the Agency for Commercial Registers.
- Real estate investment
Non-Serbians who invest in Serbian real estate can also obtain temporary residency and later apply for permanent residency and then citizenship. This option has no minimum investment requirement by law, and applicants can expect relatively low property prices, with average property prices of €80,000 in Belgrade and €50,000 in other regions. The process involves selecting and purchasing a property, registering ownership, and applying for a temporary residence permit. Initially, the permit is granted for six months, with subsequent renewals extending it for up to 3 years.
Requirements
To apply for residency in Serbia, regardless of the route taken, applicants must provide the following documentation to support their application:
- Passport: Applicants must provide their original passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Proof of financial means: Applicants must be able to demonstrate the ability to financially support themselves during their stay in Serbia.
- Proof of health insurance: Serbian residents must have valid health insurance that covers them for the entirety of their stay in Serbia.
- Proof of registered address in Serbia: This is the address where the applicant has an approved temporary residence. Proof could be something like a property deed or rental agreement.
- Clear criminal record: Applicants will need to provide evidence that they have no significant criminal history
To obtain residency-by-investment, foreign individuals must also provide proof of justification for residency. In this case, this will be proof of compliance with the guidelines and the requirements listed below for residency-by-investment.
- Written confirmation or a statement of ownership of assets in a non-resident bank account registered in Serbia or the equivalent value in RSD or a different foreign currency.
- Proof of payment to the share capital of an already registered company in Serbia.
- A Serbian work permit acquired in accordance with the Law on Employment of Foreigners.
- Proof of application payment.
Residency Permit Duration and Renewal
Under the residency-by-investment scheme, the temporary residence permit is issued for six months. Renewals can extend the permit for up to 3 years, depending on the basis of stay and fulfillment of necessary conditions. Renewal applications should be submitted no earlier than 3 months before and no later than the expiration date of the current permit. Evidence must be provided that the individual continues to meet the conditions of the residency by investment.
After three consecutive years of temporary residency, applicants become eligible to apply for permanent residency. After three years of permanent residency in Serbia, foreigners can then apply for Serbian citizenship.
Serbian Citizenship After Investment-Based Residency: What to Expect
Investing in Serbia does not directly grant citizenship. However, it offers a clear and legal pathway to Serbian citizenship over time through temporary residency, followed by permanent residency, and ultimately naturalization.
To qualify for Serbia’s citizenship, residents must comply with the following requirements:
- Continuous legal residency: They must remain legally and physically present in Serbia.
- Fulfilment of legal conditions: This includes a clean criminal record, proof of income and accommodation, and integration into Serbian society.
- No major legal violations: Consistent compliance with Serbian immigration laws is essential.
Citizenship Timeline
The journey to Serbia citizenship through residency by investment or business or exception takes approximately six years:
- Years 1-3: Renew your temporary residency annually.
- Year 3: Apply for permanent residency.
- Years 3-6: Maintain permanent residency status.
- Year 6: Apply for Serbian citizenship through naturalization.
Serbia does not currently offer a fast-track or program to citizenship, e.g., Serbian citizenship after 1 year, so patience and compliance with local requirements are essential.
Fees
To apply for a temporary residence permit, applicants are required to pay the administrative fees of about 22,000 RSD (Serbian dinars) which is equivalent to 185 EUR. The administrative fee can be paid using a valid credit or debit card or by making a payment order on the application portal.
And when it is time to apply for citizenship
Initial Investment: The amount paid in real estate or business, starting at about €50,000
Due Diligence Fee: A fee of €7,500 is required for each main applicant.
Additional Fees: Reduced fees may be applicable for accompanying family members.
Fees for Other Application Pathways
- Citizenship by Marriage: Government fees typically range between €100 and €300.
- Naturalization / Consular Services: Fees for acquiring citizenship vary depending on the embassy. For example, the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in the United States lists €275 for certain immigrant admissions.
Requirements
To meet the Serbian citizenship requirements, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Maintain continuous legal residence in Serbia (initially as a temporary resident, then as a permanent resident).
- Demonstrate integration into Serbian society, including:
- Basic knowledge of the Serbian language.
- Understanding of local laws and culture.
- Have no criminal record.
- Fulfill tax obligations and maintain a clean financial record.
- Provide proof of sufficient income or business operation (if applicable).
- A statement declaring that they consider the Republic of Serbia to be their country.
Application Process
Foreign investors seeking citizenship in Serbia through the residency-by-investment process should follow the steps below when applying:
- Establish eligibility
To qualify, applicants must invest in a registered Serbian company or its business activity or real estate and have a non-resident bank account in Serbia.
- Gather required documentation
As part of the application, applicants must prepare the documentation listed above.
- Submit the application
Applications are submitted to the Ministry of Internal Affairs Foreigners’ Department.
- Receive the temporary residence permit
The initial permit is granted for 6 months. After this period, if all conditions are met, applicants can apply for a renewal.
- Maintain residency and renew permits
To eventually qualify for permanent residency (after 3 years) and citizenship by naturalization, you must:
– Continuously reside in Serbia.
– Renew your permit before it expires.
– Maintain your investment/business activity.
Serbian Dual Citizenship Policy
Serbian law allows dual or multiple citizenship. This provision enables individuals to hold Serbian citizenship alongside another nationality. However, the necessity to renounce previous citizenship depends on the method of acquiring Serbian citizenship and the applicant’s origin.
Individuals of Serbian descent can acquire citizenship without renouncing their existing nationality. This provision applies even if the applicant does not reside in Serbia. However, for foreign nationals seeking Serbian citizenship through naturalization, including through the residency by investment scheme, the law traditionally requires applicants to renounce their existing citizenship.
Loss or Renunciation of Serbian Citizenship
An individual can be released from their Serbian citizenship if they file an application for release of citizenship and they meet the following conditions:
- At least 18 years of age.
- No protestations relating to obligatory military service.
- All taxes are up to date.
- All legal obligations in Serbia are up to date.
- Complies with all private obligations relating to marriage and parent-child obligations in Serbia.
- No criminal proceedings against them.
- Has citizenship in another country or has evidence that citizenship in another country will be granted.
It is also possible for Serbian citizenship to be revoked (lost involuntarily) in specific cases, such as:
- Fraud or misrepresentation during the naturalization process
- Threats to national security or public safety
- Dual citizenship is in violation of specific legal provisions.
Revocation is rare and typically follows a legal process, ensuring due process and the opportunity for appeal. Revocation is only possible if the individual has citizenship in another country.
Other European Countries Offering Residency by Investment
While Serbia does not offer a formal “Golden Visa” program, it does provide a flexible residency-by-investment route that can lead to citizenship through naturalization. Several EU countries offer widely known Golden Visa programs:
- Portugal Golden Visa
One of the most attractive in Europe, Portugal’s Golden Visa scheme offers a five-year route to citizenship with a minimum €250,000 real estate investment OR €500,000 in a qualifying investment fund, €1,000,000 capital transfer, purchase of company shares, or investment in a Portuguese business or company.
- Greece Golden Visa
Another popular Golden Visa scheme in Europe, Greece offers five-year renewable residency with a minimum €250,000, €400,000, or €800,000 real estate investment (depending on the region). The scheme also offers a route to Greek citizenship.
Conclusion
Serbia offers a practical and affordable path to citizenship through residency by investment, even though it doesn’t have a Golden Visa program like some EU countries. By investing in real estate or starting a business, foreign nationals can obtain temporary residency, which, if maintained, can lead to permanent residency after 3 years, and eventually citizenship after an additional 3 years.
With the low investment thresholds and strategic location in Europe, Serbia is an increasingly attractive option for investors, entrepreneurs, and global citizens seeking long-term opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, buying property in Serbia can be a basis for temporary residency, but it does not automatically guarantee residency. You must also meet additional requirements, such as having sufficient financial means and obtaining health insurance. This pathway can eventually lead to permanent residency and, later, citizenship through naturalization.
No. Only residential property qualifies for investment-based residency. Commercial or agricultural properties are not currently eligible under this route.
Yes, Russian citizens can apply for Serbian citizenship, provided they meet the legal requirements. The most common path is through naturalization, for example, by using the residency through investment scheme.
To obtain a Serbian passport, you must first become a Serbian citizen. Once you have been approved for citizenship, you can apply for a Serbian passport from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
While full-time residence is not always strictly required, you must spend a minimum amount of time in Serbia and demonstrate ties to the country, especially when applying for permanent residency or citizenship. Absences of more than 6 months may interrupt your eligibility timeline.