Life in Serbia: 5 Main Pros and 5 Cons for Relocating
Con #1: Smoking
One of the first and most noticeable features of daily life in Serbia is the widespread smoking. This habit is so common that you can find people smoking almost everywhere: at bus stops, in cafes, restaurants, and even in internet cafes. Everyone smokes, regardless of age — from teenagers to the elderly.
All kinds of tobacco products are used: regular and electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco systems, hookahs, and cigars. As a result, clothes often smell of tobacco smoke after visiting public places. A distinctive symbol of the local way of life has become the image of a person with a cup of coffee in one hand and a cigarette in the other.
Con #2: Graffiti
City walls in Serbia are densely covered with graffiti, which is another feature that catches the eye. These drawings and writings are almost never removed, and they only increase over time. Historically, in the 90s, graffiti was a form of social protest during a period of devastation.
Today, the themes of the drawings are diverse. They can be slogans supporting favorite football teams, political statements, for example, on the Kosovo issue, or just neutral drawings. Although new graffiti doesn't appear as actively as before, the old ones remain on the walls, creating a specific look for the cities. There are plans to clean the walls, which might be implemented starting in 2024, but the exact timeline and scope of the work are still unknown.
Con #3: General Disrepair
In some places in Serbian cities, you can notice signs of general neglect and disrepair. This is evident in the details: rusted metal structures, peeling paint on buildings, and broken sidewalks. For many, this has become a familiar part of the urban landscape.
This environment creates a unique atmosphere that some might find authentic. However, overall, if the urban environment were better maintained and restored, being in it would be much more pleasant.
Con #4: Smog and Fog
Air quality, especially during the heating season, is a serious problem for many Balkan countries, and Serbia is no exception. In the cold season, cities are often enveloped in thick smog mixed with fog. Visibility on the streets can drop to as low as ten meters.
This air is not only harmful to health but also creates an oppressive atmosphere, depriving the city of sunlight and vibrant colors. The problem is particularly acute in the suburbs and outside major cities, which can affect overall well-being and mood.
Con #5: Difficulties with Renting Housing
The housing rental market in Serbia has several significant drawbacks that newcomers face. The problems can be divided into three main aspects that complicate the search for a suitable option.
- Agency dominance. It is almost impossible to find an apartment directly from the owner. In Belgrade, about 80% of listings come from agencies, and in Novi Sad, this figure reaches 95%. The realtor's services are paid with a one-time commission of 50% of the monthly rent.
- High prices. Due to the large influx of immigrants, rental prices have increased significantly. To rent a good one-bedroom apartment on the outskirts of Belgrade, you will need at least 500–600 euros per month. In the city center, you can find housing for this price, but it will most likely be less comfortable.
- Utility payments. Not everywhere in Serbia has central heating, so many people use electric heaters. Because of this, during the heating season, utility bills can reach 100 euros per month, which is unusual for residents of countries with centralized heating systems.
Pro #1: Easy Legalization
The main advantage of Serbia for many people relocating is the ease of legalization. The country offers one of the world's fastest paths to citizenship through naturalization. A recent law allows one to apply for citizenship after just three years of residence in the country.
The process is as follows: first, you obtain a temporary residence permit (VNZh), after three years you apply for permanent residence (PMZh), and immediately after that, you can apply for citizenship. The process of obtaining the temporary residence permit itself is also quite simple, and many manage it on their own using free guides and information. The entire process can be completed within a 30-day visa-free stay or, if necessary, by making trips out of the country ('visa runs').
Pro #2: Quality of Products
Serbia is an industrial-agrarian country, which has a positive effect on the quality of local products. In regular supermarkets, you can find fresh meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits of high quality. Dairy products are particularly noteworthy.
Even private label products, such as those from the Maxi brand, which is also one of the largest supermarket chains, are of good quality. This allows for a tasty and varied diet without having to search for specialized farm stores.
Pro #3: The People
A special asset of Serbia is its people. Serbs are known for their kindness and openness. They always smile when they talk to you, and it's a sincere, not a formal, smile. The locals love to talk and are always ready to help.
This willingness to help is shown not just in words, but in real actions. It is noteworthy that this friendly attitude extends to people of all nationalities, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for foreigners.
Pro #4: Affordable Cars
For those planning a long-term stay in Serbia, car prices will be a pleasant bonus. The cost of used European cars here is one and a half to two times lower than, for example, in Russia. This applies primarily to German, French, and Italian brands.
The price difference can be quite significant. For a clear comparison, you can look at the cost of the same car in the Serbian and Russian markets.
This difference makes buying a personal vehicle in Serbia much more affordable.
Pro #5: Cost of Living
Compared to other European and even Balkan countries, the cost of living in Serbia remains at a very pleasant level. This allows for maintaining a good quality of life without excessive expenses.
For a comfortable life for two people, including expenses for maintaining legal status (for example, paying taxes for a sole proprietorship or a company), a budget of around 2,000 euros per month is sufficient. These figures are comparable to Moscow, but for Europe, this level of spending is considered very moderate.
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