15 Jul Serbian Visa Policy for Russian Citizens 2025
Table of Contents
The 2025 Visa-Free Rule for Russian Citizens
Let’s start with the basics. First, as a Russian citizen, you can enter Serbia without a visa. You can then stay for 30 days in a row. This is, for example, perfect for a short trip or a first visit.
However, this is not a long-term solution. Some people try to do “visa runs.” Essentially, this practice means they leave Serbia for a day and come back. But, this method is risky. It also creates an unstable legal status. Therefore, for anyone who wants to truly live here, a different approach is needed.
Beyond 30 Days: Why You Need a “Boravak”
To stay in Serbia for longer than 30 days, you need a residence permit. In Serbian, this permit is called a boravak. Consequently, getting a boravak is the most important goal for your relocation.
A boravak is a legal document. It allows you to live in the country for up to a year. After that, you can renew it. In addition, it is the key to working legally, opening bank accounts easily, and using local services. In short, the visa-free stay is for visitors. In contrast, the boravak is for residents.
Common Pathways to a Serbian Residence Permit
Thankfully, Serbia offers several clear ways to get a boravak. The process is logical. Below are the most common pathways for Russian citizens in 2025.
1. Starting a Business (The Most Popular Path)
The most popular route is to open your own company. For instance, you can register as an Entrepreneur (Preduzetnik). This is like the Russian ИП. It is very popular with IT specialists and freelancers. Specifically, this is because the setup is fast and the flat-rate tax is low. Alternatively, you can open a D.O.O. (like the Russian ООО). That option is better for larger businesses.
2. Employment (Zaposlenje)
Another way is to get a job. If a Serbian company hires you, you can then apply for residency. This is done through the modern **Unified Permit** system. Indeed, this system combines your work and residence permits into one. As a result, the process is quite simple.
3. Real Estate Ownership (Vlasništvo nad nekretninom)
You can also get residency by buying property. In fact, just owning a habitable apartment or house can be your basis for a boravak. You must, however, prove you have enough funds to support yourself. This is because this permit does not give you the right to work.
4. Family Reunification (Spajanje porodice)
Finally, you can apply based on family ties. If your spouse or parent is a Serbian citizen or resident, you can apply to join them. This is a very common and supportive pathway. You can learn more about family residency here.
The Application Process: A Simple Checklist
While each path has unique documents, some steps are the same for everyone.
Step 1: The “White Card” (Beli Karton)
First, this is a mandatory step. You must register your address with the local police. According to the Ministry of Interior, you have to do this within 24 hours of arriving in Serbia. This piece of paper is critical for your application.
Step 2: The Core Documents
Next, you will need to gather your personal papers. Your core file, for example, will usually include:
- A valid passport
- Your “White Card” (proof of address)
- Proof of health insurance for Serbia
- Proof of sufficient funds (a bank statement)
- A recent passport-sized photo
- A detailed biography (CV)
Step 3: The Online Application
Then, you submit your application online. This happens through the official government portal. After your file is approved, you will get an invitation for a biometrics appointment. Here, you will give your fingerprints and signature to complete the process.
Key Takeaways for Your Move
To summarize, here are the most important points:
- First, the 30-day visa-free stay is for tourism, not for living.
- Second, your main goal must be to get a temporary residence permit (boravak).
- Third, starting a business is the most popular pathway for Russian citizens.
- Finally, you must always register your “White Card” immediately upon arrival.
How We Can Help You
Navigating the residency process can be complex. There are many details where a small mistake can cause long delays. However, you don’t have to do it alone.
Our team specializes in helping Russian citizens with the entire process. For instance, we handle everything from company formation to the final approval of your residence permit. In short, we ensure your move to Serbia is smooth, efficient, and successful.
Contact us today for a consultation. Let’s make your relocation to Serbia simple.
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