Serbian Passport: A Comprehensive Guide

Citizenship in Serbia can also be obtained through investment. Foreigners interested in this should be aware that a minimum investment of €250,000 is required to enter the real estate market. After your investment, you need to maintain the investment and your residency in Serbia for five years.

Post that, you can apply for permanent residency. Upon staying in the country for three years on a permanent residency permit, you can apply for citizenship in Serbia. In other words, if you purchase a home at the minimum real estate investment amount, the Serbian government will grant you citizenship after a long history of staying in Serbia as a temporary and permanent resident.

However, another option is to start a firm with a minimum investment of €500,000, four Serbian workers, and a commitment to maintaining the investment for at least five years, as stipulated by the regulations of this nation.

The Serbian citizenship by investment program is an excellent option for foreign investors who want to obtain a European passport. Investors can enjoy the many benefits that come with it, like Serbian passport holders travel visa-free countries, they can access EU markets, and the ability to work and study in the European Union. 

In conclusion, the Serbian citizenship by investment program offers an excellent opportunity to obtain Serbian citizenship and a passport, which can provide investors with many benefits. However, it is essential to meet the program’s requirements and ensure that the investment made is maintained for the required period.

Visa-free countries to travel

Serbian passport holders can travel visa-free to over 148 countries. These visa-free countries include the European Union, Russia, and many others. Serbian citizens can also travel to many visa on arrival countries. This makes travel more convenient and cost-effective for Serbian passport holders, as they do not need to go through the hassle of obtaining a visa or any other travel documents for every country they wish to visit.

Access to EU markets

Apart from travelling visa-free countries, Serbian passport holders also gain access to EU markets. As a candidate country for EU membership, Serbia has preferential trade agreements with the EU, making it easier for Serbian businesses to trade with EU countries. Serbian citizens can benefit from these agreements by having easier access to EU markets for employment and business opportunities. This benefit makes a valid Serbian passport an attractive option for those looking to expand their business or work in the EU.

Cost of Serbian passport application

Serbian citizens don’t need to pay a hefty amount to obtain a Serbian passport. However, the time and cost vary greatly as per the age and processing time chosen. A regular Serbian passport application costs RSD 3600 (€30).

Consular assistance

Serbian citizens can receive consular assistance from the Serbian Embassy or Consulate abroad if they encounter problems while traveling or living abroad. This benefit is important as it provides a safety net for Serbian passport holders who may need assistance when abroad.

In conclusion, the Serbian passport provides its holders with numerous benefits, making it an excellent option for Serbian citizens and foreign investors who wish to obtain a Serbian passport. Visa-free travel, access to EU markets, dual citizenship, and consular assistance are just a few examples of the benefits that come with holding a Serbian passport.

Requirements for a Serbian Passport

To apply for a Serbian passport, applicants must meet certain requirements. Here is a list of the general requirements for obtaining a Serbian passport:

Serbian citizenship: Only Serbian citizens are eligible to apply for a Serbian passport. This means that applicants must be able to prove their Serbian citizenship by providing a valid Serbian birth certificate or other documentation that demonstrates their Serbian nationality.

Passport photo: Applicants must present a recent passport photo that meets the Serbian passport photo requirements. The photo must be in color, printed on high-quality photo paper, and measure 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. The photo must be taken in front of a plain white background, with the applicant’s face and shoulders visible and centered. The applicant must have a neutral facial expression with their mouth closed, eyes open, and looking directly at the camera.

Payment of fees: Applicants must pay the passport application fee, which varies depending on the age of the applicant and the processing time selected.

It is important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the applicant’s specific circumstances. For example, applicants who have changed their names may need to provide additional documentation to prove their identity. Applicants should consult with the Serbian Embassy or Consulate in their nation of residence to ensure they have met all the requirements for obtaining a Serbian passport.

• Complete the passport application form: Applicants must complete the passport application form, which is available at Serbian embassies and consulates. The form must be filled out completely and accurately, with all required information provided.
• Take a passport photo: Applicants must take a recent passport photo that meets the Serbian passport photo requirements. The photo must be in color, printed on high-quality photo paper, and measure 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm.
• Submit the application: Applicants can provide their passport application and supporting documents in person at a Serbian embassy or consulate or by mail. If submitting the application by mail, it is recommended to use a secure and traceable delivery method.
• Pay the application fee: Applicants must pay the passport application fee, which varies depending on the age of the applicant and the processing time selected. 
• Passport processing timeline: The processing time for a Serbian passport application varies depending on the processing option selected. Regular processing takes up to 10 working days, and urgent processing takes up to three working days. Once the passport is ready, the embassy or consulate will notify the applicant to pick it up in person or arrange for delivery.

Renewal Process for Serbian Passport Holders

A Serbian passport is valid for ten years for adults and five years for minors. After the expiration date, the passport must be renewed to continue traveling internationally. The process is very similar to that of applying for a new passport. Here is the process for renewing a Serbian passport:

• Check the expiration date: Applicants should check the expiration of their passport to determine when it needs to be renewed. It is recommended to start the renewal process at least six months before the passport expiration day.
• Gather supporting documents: Applicants must gather all necessary supporting documents, including their current passport, proof of Serbian citizenship, and a valid ID card.
• Complete the passport renewal application form: Applicants must complete the passport renewal application form, which is available at any Serbian Embassy and Consulate. The form must be filled out completely and accurately, with all required information provided before they visit the Consulate.
• Take a passport photo: Applicants must take a recent passport photo that meets the Serbian passport photo requirements. The photo must be in color, printed on high-quality photo paper, and measure 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm.
• Submit the application: Applicants can submit their passport renewal application and supporting documents in person at a Serbian embassy or consulate or by mail. If submitting the application by mail, it is recommended to use a secure and traceable delivery method.
• Pay the renewal fee: Applicants must pay the passport renewal fee, which varies depending on the age of the applicant and the processing time selected. Payment can be made at the embassy or consulate by cash, credit card, or other accepted payment methods.
• Wait for processing: The processing time for a Serbian passport renewal varies depending on the processing option selected. Once the renewed passport is ready, the embassy or consulate will notify the applicant to pick it up in person or arrange for delivery.

It is crucial to note that extra regulations or stages may apply based on the applicant’s individual circumstances. It is strongly advised that applicants check with the Serbian Embassy or Consulate in their country of residency to confirm that they have completed all of the necessary processes for renewing a Serbian passport.

It is important to note that renewing a Serbian passport also follows a simple process, and applicants should ensure they have followed all of the required steps to avoid any delays or issues. Overall, the Serbian passport is a valuable asset for travelers, providing access to a wide range of destinations around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Serbian Passport