Serbia Golden Visa

Serbia’s Residency by Investment Program offers an attractive pathway for investors looking to secure European residency. With a stable economy, affordable investment options, and growing business opportunities, Serbia provides a strategic location at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe. This program is ideal for investors seeking global mobility, access to the European market, and a high quality of life.

Serbia does not offer a direct citizenship-by-investment program. However, it provides a clear and structured pathway that allows investors and their families to become Serbian citizens over time through the residency and naturalization process. Here’s how it works:

Residency Duration and Timeline to  Serbia Citizenship

To qualify for Serbian citizenship, applicants must first obtain temporary residence, typically through investment in property or company formation. Once approved:

• Temporary residency must be held continuously for 3 years.

• After this period, individuals may apply for permanent residency.

• Following 3 additional years of permanent residence, they become eligible to apply for Serbian citizenship by naturalization.

In total, the pathway requires a minimum of 6 years of legal residency in Serbia before citizenship eligibility.

Residency Requirements for Eligibility

Applicants must meet certain conditions throughout the residency period, including:

• Continuous physical presence in Serbia, with limited allowances for time spent abroad.

• A valid residency permit at all times.

• Stable income or investment that supports your stay.

• Demonstrated integration into Serbian society, such as learning the language, local participation, and cultural awareness.

Meeting these criteria increases the likelihood of citizenship approval during the final stage.

No Direct Citizenship by Investment in Serbia

It’s important to understand that Serbia does not currently offer direct citizenship through a one-time investment. Instead, it provides a residency-by-investment route that can lead to citizenship after fulfilling long-term residence and legal requirements.

This model is similar to many EU-aligned residency-to-citizenship pathways, offering transparency, lower investment thresholds, and long-term relocation options.

Investment Options for Serbia’s Residency by Investment

While Serbia does not offer direct citizenship by investment, it provides flexible investment routes to obtain temporary residency, which can eventually lead to citizenship through naturalization. Investors can choose from several accessible paths depending on their goals and preferences.

Real Estate Investment in Serbia

One of the most popular options is investing in real estate. Serbia has no fixed minimum investment amount, making this route affordable and flexible:

• Property prices in smaller cities and rural areas start from €20,000 to €30,000.

• Urban centers like Belgrade or Novi Sad may require €50,000 or more, depending on the size and location.

• Investors can buy residential or commercial properties for personal use or rental income.

🟢 Important: The property must be legally registered, and the applicant must show that the property will be used as part of their residence.

Company Formation in Serbia

Starting a business in Serbia is another valid path to residency. This route is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs and investors seeking low startup barriers and access to the Balkan market.

• There is no official minimum capital requirement for setting up a company.

• Investors can establish a limited liability company (LLC) or another legal structure depending on their business model.

• The company must be legally registered, active, and compliant with Serbian tax and labor regulations.

• The applicant must be employed by their own company and demonstrate ongoing business activity.

This option is ideal for digital nomads, consultants, and international businesses wanting to base operations in Europe.

Other Investment Avenues

While real estate and business formation are the primary routes, Serbia may also accept other forms of economic contribution on a case-by-case basis:

• Investment in local enterprises or joint ventures with Serbian partners.

• Government bonds or development projects, if announced under specific incentive schemes.

• Partnerships with innovation or tech incubators tied to government-approved programs.

🔍 These options are less common but can be considered in consultation with legal experts who understand Serbian immigration policy.

How to Apply for Serbian Residency by Investment

Applying for residency in Serbia is a structured and accessible process. Here are the essential steps:

1. Choose Your Investment Path: Start by selecting your preferred investment option, such as real estate or business investment. Our team can assist you in evaluating the most suitable option.

2. Prepare and Submit Your Application: Once you’ve chosen an investment, compile the necessary documentation and submit your initial application.

3. Visit Serbia for Biometric Registration: Travel to Serbia to complete the required biometric data process. This step generally takes a few weeks to complete.

4. Await Residency Approval: Your application will then undergo a review process, typically taking around 30-60 days for a decision.

5. Receive Your Residency Permit: Upon approval, you’ll be granted your Serbian residency permit, allowing you to begin enjoying the benefits of Serbian residency.

This process ensures a straightforward journey toward Serbian residency, giving you the flexibility to plan your investment and relocation efficiently.

Required Documents for Serbia Business Investment Residency

To apply for the Serbia Residency by Investment Program, ensure you have the following documents ready along with your application form:

Prepare the necessary documentation. You will typically need:

• • A valid passport

  • Proof of investment (e.g., property deed or company registration)

  • Health insurance valid in Serbia

  • Clean criminal record from your home country

  • Proof of accommodation in Serbia

  • Passport-sized photos (per biometric standards)

Financial means to support your stay (bank statements, income proof)

Tip: Work with an CBI consultant or legal advisor at Fast Passport to avoid delays due to missing or incorrect paperwork.

Providing these documents ensures a smooth application process and timely approval of your residency permit.

amily Inclusion

Residency applications can include:

• Spouse or legal partner

• Dependent children

• In some cases, dependent parents

All family members must submit separate documentation and proof of relationship.

Comparison of Serbia’s permanent residency by investment with Other European Options

Serbia’s Residency by Investment Program offers distinct advantages compared to other European residency programs, making it an appealing choice:

• Lower Investment Threshold: With a minimum investment starting at EUR 250,000, Serbia is one of the more affordable options in Europe for obtaining residency.
• Rapid Processing Times: The application process is typically faster than other European programs, with most approvals granted within 60 days.
• Pathway to Citizenship: After five years of residency, investors can apply for permanent residency and later for Serbian citizenship, offering long-term stability and benefits within Europe.

Serbia Citizenship FAQs

Can I get Serbian citizenship directly by investment?

No. Serbia does not offer direct citizenship by investment. Instead, investors can apply for temporary residency, maintain it for 3 years, and then apply for permanent residency. After another 3 years of permanent residency, individuals may apply for citizenship by naturalization.

What is the minimum investment required to get Serbian residency?

There is no official minimum amount. However:

• Real estate investments can start from approximately €20,000, depending on the location.

• Company formation requires no fixed capital but must show active operations and compliance.

How long does it take to become a Serbian citizen?

The standard timeline is:

• 3 years of temporary residency

• 3 years of permanent residency

• Then you can apply for citizenship

So, a minimum of 6 years of continuous legal residency is required.

Can my family be included in the application?

Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be included in your initial residency application. Each family member must submit individual documentation, including health insurance and proof of relationship.

Does Serbia allow dual citizenship?

Yes. Serbia permits dual citizenship, meaning you do not have to renounce your original nationality when you become a Serbian citizen.

Do I have to live in Serbia full-time to qualify for citizenship?

To qualify for citizenship, you must meet continuous residence requirements:

• Maintain your legal residence

• Avoid long absences from the country (short trips are allowed)

• Demonstrate integration into Serbian society, such as learning the language or participating in community life