So, you’re thinking about starting a business in Serbia? That’s an exciting venture! Serbia has become a hotspot for foreign investment, but like any country, it has its own set of rules and procedures.
Don’t worry, though—the process is straightforward once you know the steps. Here’s a breakdown of the key things you need to know as a foreigner looking to do business in Serbia.
Step 1: Getting Your Business Registered
This is your first official step, and it’s handled by the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA).
- The Legal Address: Every company in Serbia must have a registered physical address. You have a few options: you can lease or buy office space, or you can use a popular and cost-effective solution—an agreement for a “virtual headquarters” with a licensed provider.
- Get Some Help: Don’t want to navigate the paperwork yourself? No problem. Start-Serbia or other proxy can handle the business registration, sign contracts, and represent you before government bodies. This is highly recommended to smooth the process.
- Bank Account & Digital Signature: There are two things you must do in person:
- Open a corporate bank account at a Serbian bank.
- Obtain a qualified digital signature, which is essential for most online administrative procedures in Serbia.
Step 2: Understanding Pension and Health Insurance
This is a crucial area that can save you money and hassle.
- The General Rule: If you are employed by a foreign company from a country that has a social security agreement with Serbia, you may be exempt from paying dual social security contributions.
- What to Do: Check the official website of the Republic Fund of Social Insurance of Serbia (RFZO) for the current list of countries with which Serbia has these agreements. This ensures you don’t pay for insurance in two countries at once.
Step 3: Securing Your Residence and Work Permit
If you plan to stay and work in Serbia for more than a short tourist visit, you’ll need to sort out your legal status.
- Temporary Residence: If you’re staying longer than 90 days, you must apply for temporary residence with the Ministry of Internal Affairs. A key requirement is providing proof of your address, which typically means getting a signed consent form from your Serbian landlord.
- Work Permit: This is separate from residence! If you will be on the payroll of a Serbian company and receiving a salary locally, you must obtain a work permit from the National Employment Service.
Your To-Do List Summary:
- Register your company with the SBRA (get a virtual office if needed).
- Hire Start-Serbia or other proxy to help (strongly recommended).
- Personally open a bank account and get your digital signature.
- Check the social security agreement list to understand your insurance obligations.
- Apply for temporary residence if staying over 90 days.
- Secure a work permit if you will be employed in Serbia.
