Why Serbia Became the Choice for Relocation: An Analysis of Alternatives and Key Advantages
Searching for a New Home After Georgia: Which Countries Were Considered
The decision to move from Georgia was not spontaneous, as this country was never considered a final destination for long-term emigration. There were always plans to move on, which is why an active search for a new place to live began.
Initially, a fairly wide list of countries was considered, including both European and more distant destinations. Each country was evaluated based on a combination of factors, including visa requirements, legalization opportunities, and personal preferences.
- Poland
- Germany
- Spain and Portugal
- South American countries (Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay)
- Australia
Why Other Countries Weren't a Fit: From Visa Complications to Personal Preferences
Each of the initial options was rejected for a number of reasons. For example, moving to Poland turned out to be impossible, and this option was dismissed immediately. The situation with Germany was different: for a long time, this country was not appealing due to a dislike for the German language and culture in general.
Spain and Portugal seemed more attractive, especially because friends were planning to move there. These countries are quite open to immigration, offering programs like the Digital Nomad visa. However, this option did not develop further.
The idea of moving to South America was also considered. Brazil was rejected by my husband due to its high crime rate, despite its cultural appeal. Other countries, such as Chile or Argentina, seemed too far away, which was psychologically perceived as moving to another planet, greatly complicating the possibility of returning to Europe.
Serbia as the Simplest Option: Key Factors in the Decision
In the end, Serbia was chosen as the simplest and most logical option of all those listed. The decision was based on several key and very practical aspects that significantly simplified the process of moving and subsequent life.
One of the main advantages was visa-free entry. This allowed us to fly into the country without the need to arrange complex entry documents in advance while being abroad (not in Russia), which could have been problematic.
The second important factor was the ease of legalization. In Serbia, there are many ways to obtain a residence permit (ВНЖ), which makes the process more flexible and accessible for different categories of immigrants.
Methods of Legalization and a High Approval Rate for Residence Permits
Serbia offers several paths to obtaining a residence permit, which favorably distinguishes it from many other countries. This provides an opportunity to choose the most suitable option depending on one's personal situation.
- Based on talent. This option is suitable for people with a completed higher education.
- Through real estate purchase. Owning property in Serbia is a basis for obtaining a residence permit.
- By opening a sole proprietorship (SP). This was the chosen and simplest option for the move.
A critically important point was the high approval rate for residence permit applications. Unlike Georgia, where at that time there were many rejections even with all the necessary grounds, in Serbia, rejections are almost non-existent. This provides almost one hundred percent confidence in successful legalization.
Social Environment and Life in the Capital
In addition to legal aspects, social and cultural factors played a significant role. One of them was the attitude towards Russian speakers. In Serbia, it is much more comfortable and friendly, which helps to avoid the background tension that was sometimes felt in Georgia.
Moving to Belgrade was also a conscious choice. After three years of living in the small resort town of Batumi, there was a desire to be in a larger and more dynamic European city. Belgrade, as the capital of Serbia, fully met this desire, offering the rhythm of a big city life.
The opportunity to live where you are treated not poorly by default, and in Serbia's case, even very well, became a significant plus for resetting the nervous system after the difficulties of emigration.
Citizenship Prospects: Expectations vs. Current Reality
Initially, one of the attractive aspects was the possibility of applying for Serbian citizenship after just three years of residence in the country. This aspect was important in making the decision to move.
However, the situation has now changed and become less certain. Although the law allowing passport applications after three years still exists, in practice, there are no known cases of approval for Russians who have recently moved and have already met this condition.
Applications from those who have renounced their Russian citizenship are in limbo: the old passport is no longer valid, and the new Serbian one has not yet been issued. Thus, the prospect of obtaining citizenship, which was once a weighty argument, now remains unclear.
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