Serbia visas and residence – citizenship matters
Always check the current Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa regime for the exact citizenship and travel document. Serbia maintains country-by-country rules, and some travellers can have additional entry options when holding qualifying valid Schengen, EU, UK or US visas or residence permits.
Visa C
A short-stay visa is used for entry, transit or a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It can cover tourism, business and other short visits. A Visa C is generally not the normal basis for long-term residence.
Visa D
A long-stay D visa allows a stay between 90 and 180 days. Grounds can include employment, education, family reunification and other qualifying purposes. A D visa based on employment can also carry work rights under current rules.
Temporary residence and work
Welcome to Serbia provides electronic guidance and applications. Current rules allow temporary residence/single residence and work permits in qualifying cases for periods that can extend beyond the D-visa period. The correct route depends on the ground and nationality.
Before you apply
- Confirm whether a visa is required for your passport.
- Identify your legal purpose of stay.
- Check document validity, insurance and supporting documents.
- Use the official electronic portal or competent diplomatic mission.
- Do not rely on an old social-media post for a current visa decision.
Trusted sources: Serbia MFA – Visa regime · Serbia MFA – Visa requirements · Welcome to Serbia · eServices for foreigners
SRBIJA NEWS guide reviewed: 26 August 2026. Rules, prices and schedules can change. SAVA should re-check time-sensitive details before presenting them as current.
Ask SAVA with your citizenship, city, budget, dates or situation. If SAVA cannot verify the answer, you can send the question to the SRBIJA NEWS newsroom.