Since 2024, Serbia has started issuing a new document for foreigners who have obtained a temporary residence permit (VNZh) — the ID card. This plastic card with a chip has replaced the previously used passport stickers (nalepnice). In its format and functionality, it is similar to the identity cards used by Serbian citizens.
The main requirement for applying for permanent residency (PMŽ) in Serbia is three years of continuous residence in the country based on a temporary residence permit (VNJ). It is important to understand that this period starts from the date of the very first temporary residence permit application, which can only be found in the 'uverenje o boravku' document.
In 2025, the key change in the process of obtaining Serbian citizenship for Russians was a new interpretation of existing legislation. The law itself has not changed, but it has begun to be 'read differently.' This has led to a de facto tightening of requirements for those applying for citizenship through the general naturalization procedure.
The main advantage of Serbia for immigrants is the relatively simple legalization procedure at the initial stage. Unlike EU countries, there is no need to obtain a special Category D visa in advance and wait for months for a decision in a state of uncertainty.
When planning to move to Serbia for permanent residence, it's important to clearly define your goals. This isn't about a temporary stay to 'wait things out,' but a full-fledged relocation for those who have already researched the country and are ready for a fundamental change of residence.
In Serbia, there are several dozen different grounds for obtaining a residence permit. However, among them is one option that, despite its apparent simplicity, is the most unpromising for those aiming for long-term residency in the country — a residence permit based on study.
A common misconception is that buying real estate in Serbia automatically leads to citizenship. In reality, purchasing a property is only the first necessary step to begin a long legalization process. Owning real estate grants the right to obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP), but not a passport.
In recent years, Serbia has been rapidly becoming the main 'Plan B' for many who are looking for a comfortable and safe country for life and business in Europe. This trend received a powerful boost from revolutionary amendments to the Law on Foreigners (Sl. glasnik RS, br. 62/2023), which came into force at the end of 2023.
The path for property owners to obtain permanent residence in Serbia takes three years. This process is based on obtaining a temporary residence permit, known in Serbian as 'privremeni boravak'. The grounds for its issuance is the ownership of residential property within the country.