The Zdravstvena knjižica or kartica is Serbia's compulsory health insurance (OMS) policy, which provides access to public medical services. Obtaining this document is directly linked to having a residence permit (VNZh). It is impossible to apply for Serbian public health insurance without a residence permit.
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.
In Serbia, there are two main types of certificates confirming no issues with the law: one is issued by the court, the other by the police. Despite their similar names, they have different purposes and confirm different facts. The choice of a specific document depends on the reason for obtaining it, for example, for applying for permanent residence (ПМЖ) or for a visa.
For those planning to move or who have already obtained a residence permit in Serbia, it's important to understand the document called "Uverenje o boravku". Essentially, it is an official certificate that confirms your registered address in the country. It serves as an equivalent of residence registration and replaces the "white card" for foreign citizens who have received a residence permit, formally certifying your resident status at a specific address.
When moving to Serbia for work or business, one of the key steps is registering with the Pension Fund (Fond za penzijsko i invalidsko osiguranje – PIO). This step is mandatory for legal employment, starting a sole proprietorship, and gaining access to the country's social security system.