A step-by-step guide to obtaining a temporary residence permit (boravak) in Serbia: required documents, where to apply, and how long the process takes.
The information in this guide may be incomplete or outdated. Laws and regulations in Serbia may change. Before making important decisions, be sure to consult official sources or professionals.
What Is a Temporary Residence Permit
A temporary residence permit (privremeni boravak) is a document that grants a foreign national the legal right to reside in Serbia for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. It is issued by the Foreigners' Affairs Office under the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia.
Common grounds for obtaining a temporary residence permit include employment, education, family reunification, property ownership, establishing a business, and other legally recognized reasons.
Required Documents
To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will need the following:
Valid passport — must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond the expected end date of your residence permit
Proof of accommodation — a notarized lease agreement or property deed
Proof of financial means — bank statement or income certificate showing sufficient funds
Health insurance — a valid policy covering your stay in Serbia
Payment receipt — for the state administrative fee (republicka administrativna taksa)
All documents in a foreign language must be translated into Serbian by a certified court interpreter and apostilled.
Where to Apply
Applications are submitted in person at the local police department responsible for your place of residence:
Belgrade: Foreigners' Affairs Office, Savska 35. Check the Ministry of Interior website for the latest information and office hours
Other cities: visit your local police administration (policijska uprava)
It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment in advance. Queues in Belgrade can be very long, especially at the beginning of the year when many permits are up for renewal.
Processing Time
The standard processing time is up to 30 days from the date a complete application is submitted
During busy periods, it may take up to 60 days
Upon submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation receipt (potvrda) that allows you to stay in Serbia legally while your application is being processed
Cost
The state administrative fee for a temporary residence permit is approximately 1,500–3,000 Serbian dinars, depending on the type of application. Check the Ministry of Interior website for up-to-date fee schedules.
Practical Tips
Apply early — submit your application no later than 30 days before your current visa or residence permit expires
Bring copies — prepare originals and one photocopy of each document
Register your address — within 24 hours of moving into a new accommodation, the landlord or hotel must register your address with the police (known as the "white card" or beli karton). You can verify your registration through the eUprava portal
Open a bank account — you will need one to prove your financial means. While many banks require an existing residence permit, some (such as Raiffeisen and Banca Intesa) will open an account with just your passport
Track your deadlines — the residence permit is issued for a specific period, and you must apply for renewal before your current permit expires
Consider hiring a lawyer or relocation agent — for complex cases such as business registration or work permits, professional assistance can save you significant time and help avoid mistakes