Complete Guide to Moving to Serbia in 2026

Belgrade has a way of getting under your skin. You arrive expecting a post-communist capital and instead find a city where floating nightclubs line the Danube, Ottoman and Habsburg architecture compete for your attention on every block, rakija flows freely at 2 PM on a Tuesday, and a three-course meal at a proper restaurant costs you $15. The energy is raw, the people are warm in a way that catches you off guard, and the nightlife — genuinely — rivals Berlin.

Serbia is not on most people’s relocation shortlist, and that is precisely what makes it compelling. It is not in the EU (yet). It does not have a polished digital nomad visa program. The bureaucracy can be opaque. But what it does have is a cost of living that makes most of Europe look absurdly expensive, a visa-free entry policy that welcomes almost everyone, a flat tax system that is simple and competitive, and a quality of life — measured in food, social connection, culture, and sheer aliveness — that money genuinely cannot buy in most Western cities.

The tech scene is real and growing. Microsoft, NCR, and a string of outsourcing firms have offices in Belgrade. Novi Sad hosts EXIT, one of Europe’s biggest music festivals. The food — ćevapi, pljeskavica, burek, kajmak — is hearty, delicious, and absurdly cheap. And the geographic position is perfect: two hours by air from most major European capitals, with the Adriatic coast, the Alps, and Istanbul all within easy reach.

At WhereNext, we score every country across seven data-driven dimensions using institutional sources. You can explore the full Serbia country profile for real-time data, or keep reading for the comprehensive breakdown.

Why People Move to Serbia

Serbia attracts a growing and eclectic expat community — from digital nomads drawn by rock-bottom costs and legendary nightlife to entrepreneurs leveraging the flat tax system, from retirees stretching their pensions to remote workers who want a European base without Western European prices. Understanding what draws people to Serbia frames everything that follows in this guide.

Rock-Bottom Cost of Living

Serbia is one of the cheapest countries in Europe, period. Not just cheaper than Western Europe — cheaper than most of Eastern Europe too. Belgrade, the capital and by far the most expensive city, can be lived in comfortably for $800–$1,200 per month. That includes rent, food, transport, entertainment, and a social life that would cost three to four times as much in London, Paris, or even Prague. Outside Belgrade — in Novi Sad, Niš, or Subotica — costs drop another 20–30%.

The value is not just about being cheap. It is about what your money buys. A dinner at a proper Serbian restaurant with grilled meat, salad, bread, and a beer costs $8–$12. A three-course meal at a nicer spot runs $15–$25. Coffee culture is serious and a coffee with friends at a cafe costs $1–$2. A monthly gym membership is $20–$35. Taxis across the city cost $3–$5. Your quality of life per dollar spent is among the highest in Europe.

Legendary Nightlife

Belgrade’s nightlife is not just good — it is the single thing that brings more visitors back to Serbia than anything else. The splavovi (floating river clubs) moored along the Danube and Sava rivers are unlike anything anywhere else in Europe. These are full-scale nightclubs built on barges, with world-class sound systems, open-air decks overlooking the water, and parties that run until dawn. The scene peaks in summer but never fully stops. Add the Savamala warehouse district, the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija, and the traditional 24-hour kafanas, and you have a nightlife ecosystem that competes with Berlin, Tbilisi, and Buenos Aires.

Generous Visa-Free Access

Citizens of more than 95 countries — including the US, Canada, all EU/EEA nations, the UK, Australia, and most of Latin America — can enter Serbia and stay for 90 days without any visa. No application. No fees. No income requirements. You fly in, get stamped, and you are legal for three months. At the end of 90 days, many expats do a quick trip to a neighboring country (Bosnia, Montenegro, or Hungary are all a few hours away) and reset the clock. While this is technically a gray area for long-term stays, it is widely practiced and tolerated.

Warm Serbian Hospitality

Serbians have a reputation for warmth and hospitality that is not just a tourism slogan — it is a deeply rooted cultural value. The concept of gostoprimstvo (hospitality toward guests) is central to Serbian identity. Strangers invite you for coffee. Neighbors bring you food. Taxi drivers refuse to charge you for short trips. Shopkeepers round down your bill. This level of genuine human connection is something many expats from larger, more impersonal Western cities find genuinely life-changing.

Growing Tech Scene

Serbia’s IT sector has been growing at double-digit rates for years. Belgrade and Novi Sad have become significant outsourcing and nearshoring hubs, with Microsoft Development Center Serbia, NCR, Nordeus (the gaming company behind Top Eleven), and hundreds of smaller companies employing tens of thousands of developers. The University of Belgrade produces strong technical graduates, and Serbia’s developer salaries — while rising — remain well below Western European levels, making it attractive for companies and competitive for freelancers. The startup ecosystem is small but genuine, centered around Science Technology Park Belgrade and Startit centers.

Gateway to the Balkans

Belgrade sits at the crossroads of Central and Southeastern Europe. Budapest is 3.5 hours north by bus. Sarajevo is 4 hours west. Sofia is 5 hours east. The Adriatic coast of Montenegro and Croatia is a 4–5 hour drive. Istanbul is a 90-minute flight. This position makes Serbia an ideal base for exploring the entire region — weekend trips to other Balkan capitals are trivially easy and cheap. Wizz Air and Ryanair both operate from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, with budget flights to dozens of European cities.

Cost of Living in Detail

Serbia’s cost of living is its single biggest draw for budget-conscious expats. Here is a detailed breakdown based on Belgrade prices (the most expensive city in Serbia). Costs in Novi Sad, Niš, and smaller cities are 15–30% lower. See our cheapest countries for remote workers ranking for how Serbia compares globally.

Rent

• 1-bedroom apartment (city center): $350–$600/month — Vraçar, Dorćol, and Stari Grad are the most desirable central neighborhoods. A well-furnished one-bedroom in Vraçar runs around $400–$500.
• 1-bedroom apartment (outside center): $250–$400/month — New Belgrade (Novi Beograd) offers modern apartments in high-rises at lower prices, with excellent tram and bus connections.
• 2-bedroom apartment (city center): $500–$800/month — suitable for couples or small families.
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): $80–$150/month, depending on apartment size and season (heating is the big variable in winter).

Food and Groceries

• Groceries: $200–$300/month for one person. Local markets (pijaca) are cheaper than supermarkets and offer excellent fresh produce. Maxi, Idea, and Lidl are the main supermarket chains.
• Dining out (casual): A ćevapi plate runs $3–$5. A full meal at a casual restaurant costs $5–$10. Burek (filled pastry) from a pekara (bakery) is $1–$2.
• Dining out (mid-range): A three-course dinner at a good restaurant runs $15–$25 per person with drinks.
• Coffee: $1–$2 for an espresso at a cafe. Serbians take coffee culture seriously — expect to spend time, not just money.
• Beer: $1.50–$3 at a bar. A pint of local Jelen or Laško costs under $2 at most places.

Transport

• Monthly public transport pass (Belgrade): ~$30/month. Covers buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: $3–$5 for most trips within the city center. CarGo is the local ride-hailing app (Uber withdrew from Serbia). Taxis are metered and generally honest.
• Car ownership: Fuel is $1.50–$1.70/liter. Parking in central Belgrade is difficult and expensive relative to other costs. Most expats do not need a car.

Monthly Budget Summary

• Tight budget (solo): $600–$800/month — shared apartment outside center, cooking at home, limited dining out.
• Comfortable (solo): $800–$1,200/month — own apartment in a good neighborhood, regular dining out, active social life.
• Very comfortable (solo): $1,200–$1,800/month — central apartment, eat out regularly, gym, coworking, weekend trips.
• Couple: $1,200–$2,000/month for a comfortable lifestyle in Belgrade.

Best Cities for Expats

Serbia’s expat population is heavily concentrated in Belgrade, with a growing secondary community in Novi Sad. Beyond those two, options exist but the international infrastructure thins quickly. Here is how the top cities compare.

Belgrade — The Capital and the Heart

Belgrade is where the Sava meets the Danube, where Ottoman meets Habsburg, and where cafe culture collides with warehouse raves. It is a city of contrasts: beautiful Art Nouveau buildings next to brutalist concrete blocks, peaceful parks a five-minute walk from the loudest nightclub you have ever been in. With a population of 1.7 million, it is the largest city in the former Yugoslavia and the undisputed cultural and economic capital of Serbia.

Vraçar is the neighborhood most expats gravitate toward. It is central, walkable, leafy, and full of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. The Temple of Saint Sava — one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world — anchors the neighborhood. Rent for a furnished one-bedroom runs $400–$550. The vibe is residential but lively, with everything you need within walking distance.

Dorćol is Belgrade’s oldest neighborhood and its trendiest. Located between the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Danube, it is packed with independent coffee shops, galleries, vintage stores, and some of the city’s best restaurants. It is the closest thing Belgrade has to a Brooklyn or Kreuzberg. Rent is slightly higher than Vraçar ($450–$600 for a one-bedroom), but the atmosphere is worth it.

Savamala is the former warehouse district along the Sava River, now transformed into Belgrade’s creative and nightlife quarter. Clubs like Drugstore and Mikser House anchor the area, and Belgrade Waterfront — a massive, somewhat controversial urban development project — is reshaping the waterfront with modern towers, a luxury shopping mall, and a new promenade. Savamala is where Belgrade’s gritty past meets its glossy future.

New Belgrade (Novi Beograd) was built after World War II as a planned socialist city across the Sava River. It is a grid of wide boulevards and concrete tower blocks that looks intimidating but lives well. Modern malls (Ušće, Delta City), excellent public transport, and lower rents ($300–$450 for a one-bedroom) make it popular with expats who prioritize value and space over aesthetics. The Arena and Sava Center are here, and access to the rest of the city is fast.

Novi Sad — The Chill Alternative

Serbia’s second city (population ~350,000) sits 80 km north of Belgrade on the Danube, in the Vojvodina province. It was named the European Capital of Culture in 2022, which brought significant investment in infrastructure, cultural venues, and public spaces. The Petrovaradin Fortress — the “Gibraltar of the Danube” — overlooks the city and hosts the EXIT Festival every July, one of Europe’s biggest and best music festivals (200,000+ attendees, Pulitzer Prize-nominated).

Novi Sad is quieter, greener, and about 20% cheaper than Belgrade. The old town is walkable and charming, with Austro-Hungarian architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and a cafe culture that moves at an even slower pace than Belgrade’s. The expat community is smaller but close-knit. The University of Novi Sad is one of Serbia’s best, creating a young, educated population and a burgeoning tech scene. Rent for a one-bedroom in the center runs $280–$420.

For someone who wants the Serbian experience without the intensity of Belgrade, Novi Sad is the answer. It is especially appealing if you value calm, green spaces, and a manageable city scale.

Niš — The Ancient Crossroads

Serbia’s third-largest city (population ~250,000) sits in the southeast, at the crossroads of routes that have connected Europe and Asia for millennia. It is the birthplace of Emperor Constantine the Great, and the Niš Fortress and Mediana archaeological site reflect that ancient pedigree. The city has a strong local identity, excellent food (southern Serbian cuisine is even more meat-centric than Belgrade’s), and the lowest cost of living of any major Serbian city.

Rent for a furnished one-bedroom in central Niš runs $200–$350. The international community is tiny — you will be one of a small number of foreign residents. English proficiency is lower than in Belgrade or Novi Sad. But if you want maximum affordability and are comfortable being more embedded in local life, Niš offers genuine value. The University of Niš provides some international connections, and the city has a small but growing IT presence.

Visa Options and Residency

Serbia’s visa system is straightforward and generous for most nationalities. There is no formal digital nomad visa (as of 2026), but the existing framework provides workable options for remote workers and entrepreneurs.

90-Day Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of more than 95 countries can enter Serbia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This includes the US, Canada, all EU/EEA nations, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most of Latin America. You receive a passport stamp on entry and are free to travel within Serbia without restriction.

The “white card” registration: Within 24 hours of arriving at any address in Serbia, you are technically required to register with the local police station. Hotels do this automatically. If you are staying in a private apartment, your landlord is supposed to register you, or you can do it yourself at the local police station (policijska stanica). In practice, this rule is inconsistently enforced, but it is wise to comply — you may be asked for your white card (beli karton) when extending your stay or applying for residency.

Temporary Residence Permit

For stays beyond 90 days, you need a temporary residence permit (privremeni boravak). This is issued for one year and is renewable. Grounds for application include:

• Employment: You need a work permit from a Serbian employer. The employer typically handles the process.
• Company ownership: If you register a Serbian company (DOO — the equivalent of an LLC), you can obtain a residence permit as a company director or founder.
• Freelancing (preduzetnik): You can register as a sole proprietor (preduzetnik) and obtain residency on that basis. This is the most common path for remote workers who want to formalize their stay.
• Property ownership: Owning property in Serbia can support a residence application, though it is not an automatic path.
• Family reunification: If your spouse or partner is a Serbian citizen or resident.
• Study: Enrollment at a Serbian educational institution.

The application is submitted at the local police station (foreigners’ office). Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of accommodation, proof of health insurance, proof of financial means, and a police clearance certificate from your home country. Processing takes 30–60 days. The system is bureaucratic but functional — having a Serbian-speaking friend or hiring a local lawyer ($200–$500 for the process) is strongly recommended.

Company Registration (DOO)

Registering a company in Serbia is relatively straightforward and is the preferred route for many foreign entrepreneurs and remote workers. A DOO (Društvo sa Ograniçenom Odgovornošću) is a limited liability company equivalent to a German GmbH or American LLC. The minimum registered capital is just 100 RSD (less than $1). The process can be completed in 5–10 business days through the Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR). Costs for legal assistance and setup run $500–$1,500, depending on complexity.

A DOO gives you a legal basis for residency, the ability to invoice Serbian and international clients, and access to the 15% corporate tax rate. You will need a local bank account (Banca Intesa, Raiffeisen, and UniCredit are popular with foreigners), a Serbian accountant ($100–$200/month for bookkeeping), and to file monthly/quarterly tax returns.

No Digital Nomad Visa (Yet)

Unlike neighboring Croatia, Greece, or Romania, Serbia does not have a formal digital nomad visa as of 2026. There have been discussions in the Serbian government about creating one, but nothing has been implemented. In practice, many digital nomads use the 90-day visa-free entry with border runs, or formalize through company registration or freelancer status. The lack of a DNV is a gap, but the existing pathways are workable for most situations.

Serbia vs. Bulgaria

Bulgaria is Serbia’s most direct competitor for budget-conscious expats looking at the Balkans. Both are cheap, both have growing tech scenes, and both offer a Balkan lifestyle. But there are significant differences. Bulgaria is an EU member (since 2007) and joined the Schengen Area in 2024. Serbia is not in the EU and has no clear accession timeline. This single fact shapes nearly every comparison. Read our complete guide to Bulgaria for the full breakdown.

The bottom line: Bulgaria wins on EU membership, lower taxes, and faster internet. Serbia wins on nightlife, food culture, and human warmth. If EU access, Schengen freedom, and tax optimization are your priorities, Bulgaria is the stronger choice. If lifestyle, social energy, and raw cost are what matter, Serbia punches above its weight. Many Balkan-based expats spend time in both.

Healthcare

Serbia has a universal public healthcare system funded through mandatory social contributions. The quality is uneven — public hospitals in Belgrade can handle most situations, but facilities outside the capital vary significantly. Equipment is often older, wait times can be long, and the system suffers from underfunding and brain drain (many Serbian doctors have emigrated to Germany, Austria, and Scandinavia).

Public Healthcare

If you are employed in Serbia or paying social contributions through a company or freelancer registration, you are covered by the national health insurance fund (RFZO). This provides free access to public clinics and hospitals. The coverage is comprehensive in theory but patchy in practice — specialist appointments may involve long waits, and you may encounter requests for informal payments (a legacy practice that the government is actively trying to eliminate).

Private Healthcare

Most expats supplement public coverage with private healthcare. Private clinics in Belgrade are modern, well-equipped, and significantly cheaper than Western European equivalents:

• General practitioner visit: $20–$40
• Specialist consultation: $30–$60
• Blood panel / lab work: $15–$40
• MRI scan: $100–$200
• Dental cleaning: $30–$50
• Dental crown: $100–$250

Top private facilities in Belgrade include BelMedic, MediGroup, Acibadem (Turkish chain), and Euromedik. Most have English-speaking staff, modern equipment, and short wait times. Private health insurance from a Serbian provider (Dunav, Generali, DDOR) costs $50–$150/month for comprehensive coverage.

Dental Tourism

Serbia has become a destination for dental tourism, particularly for patients from Western Europe. Dental work in Belgrade costs 60–80% less than in Germany, Austria, or the UK, with comparable quality. Full dental implants, crowns, veneers, and cosmetic work are widely available at private dental clinics. If you need significant dental work, doing it in Serbia can save thousands of euros.

Taxes

Serbia’s tax system is relatively simple, anchored by flat rates. However, social contributions add significantly to the overall tax burden, and understanding the full picture is essential.

Income Tax

• Flat rate: 15% on employment income
• Self-employment income: 15% on net income (after deducting recognized expenses)
• Capital gains: 15%
• Rental income: 15% (after standard deduction)
• Dividends: 15%

Corporate Tax

The corporate income tax rate is 15%, which is competitive by European standards (lower than the OECD average of ~23%). For a DOO, profits are taxed at 15% at the corporate level, and then dividends distributed to you are taxed at an additional 15% — giving an effective combined rate of about 27.75% on distributed profits. This is still competitive with most of Europe.

Social Contributions

This is where Serbia’s tax burden gets heavier. On top of the 15% income tax, social contributions are levied on gross salary:

• Pension insurance: 25% (employee: 14%, employer: 11%)
• Health insurance: 10.3% (employee: 5.15%, employer: 5.15%)
• Unemployment insurance: 0.75% (all employer)
• Total social contributions: ~36.05% of gross salary

For freelancers (preduzetnik), the contribution base and rates differ slightly, and a lump-sum taxation option is available for small freelancers that can significantly reduce the effective tax burden. Consult a Serbian accountant — rates for bookkeeping and tax advice are $100–$200/month.

VAT

The standard VAT rate is 20%. A reduced rate of 10% applies to essential goods (food, medicine, public transport, newspapers). If your DOO turnover exceeds 8 million RSD (~$72,000) in the previous 12 months, you must register for VAT. Below that threshold, VAT registration is optional.

Internet and Remote Work

Internet infrastructure in Serbia is adequate for remote work and improving rapidly. It is not Romania-level blazing fast, but it is reliable enough for video calls, screen sharing, and standard remote work tasks. Belgrade and Novi Sad have the best connectivity.

Home Internet

• Average speeds: 50–80 Mbps download in Belgrade and Novi Sad. Fiber (FTTH) is expanding rapidly and offers 100–300 Mbps in covered areas.
• Providers: SBB (part of United Group) is the dominant cable/fiber ISP. MTS (Telekom Srbija) offers fiber and DSL. Orion and SatTrakt serve regional markets.
• Cost: $15–$30/month for 50–200 Mbps connections. Fiber packages are competitive.
• Reliability: Generally stable in central urban areas. Outages are rare but not unheard of — having a mobile data backup plan is wise.

Mobile Data

Three mobile operators serve Serbia: MTS, A1 (formerly VIP), and Yettel (formerly Telenor). 4G LTE coverage is excellent in cities and along major corridors. 5G is being deployed in Belgrade. A prepaid SIM with 20–50 GB of data costs $8–$15/month. Monthly postpaid plans with unlimited data run $15–$25.

Coworking Spaces

• Smart Office (Belgrade): Multiple locations across Belgrade with professional facilities, meeting rooms, and reliable internet. Monthly hot desk: $80–$120. Dedicated desk: $120–$180.
• Nova Iskra (Belgrade): A design and innovation hub in Dorćol with a creative community, events, and workshops. Monthly coworking: $100–$150. Beautiful space with a focus on creative industries.
• Impact Hub Belgrade: Part of the global Impact Hub network, focusing on social enterprise and innovation. Monthly: $100–$160.
• Startit Centar (Belgrade & Novi Sad): The center of Serbia’s startup ecosystem. Offers coworking, events, mentorship, and community. Monthly: $60–$100. Great for networking with the local tech scene.
• Cafe culture: Many Belgrade cafes are laptop-friendly with decent WiFi. Serbians spend hours in cafes as a social ritual, so working from a cafe is culturally acceptable. Popular spots include cafes along Cetinjska Street in Savamala and along Strahinjića Bana in Dorćol.

For more on how Serbian cities compare for remote work, see our cheapest cities in Europe for digital nomads ranking and the digital nomad hub.

Belgrade Nightlife — A Dedicated Section

Belgrade’s nightlife deserves its own section because it is genuinely one of the best in the world — not in a polished, bottle-service way, but in a raw, unpredictable, anything-can-happen way. The city has been called the “party capital of the Balkans” and the “new Berlin,” and while every city gets compared to Berlin these days, Belgrade’s claim is more legitimate than most.

Splavovi (Floating River Clubs)

The splavovi are Belgrade’s signature contribution to global nightlife culture. These are full-sized nightclubs built on barges and pontoons moored along the banks of the Sava and Danube rivers. There are dozens of them, ranging from massive multi-level venues with international DJs to smaller, more intimate spots playing traditional Serbian music.

• Lasta: One of the most famous, sitting on the Sava near the Ada Ciganlija bridge. Upscale vibe, electronic music, beautiful people.
• Freestyler: Legendary venue for electronic music on the Sava. Open-air in summer, enclosed in winter. A Belgrade institution.
• 20/44: Underground, alternative, and beloved by locals and expats alike. On the Danube side. Less polished, more authentic.
• Hot Mess: Newer, trendy, and popular with the international crowd. Good cocktails, diverse music.

The splav season peaks from May through October, when the open-air decks are in full swing. But many venues operate year-round with enclosed, heated spaces. Cover charges are usually $3–$8. Drinks cost $3–$7. The party typically does not start until midnight and runs until 6 AM or later.

Savamala District

The former industrial warehouse district along the Sava River has been transformed into Belgrade’s creative and nightlife hub. The vibe is post-industrial, with converted warehouses, street art, and pop-up bars. Drugstore is the anchor — a techno club in a literal former drugstore warehouse that hosts international DJs and local talent. Mikser House is a cultural center and event space that combines art exhibitions, live music, and design markets. On weekends, the entire strip along Karađorđeva Street comes alive.

Skadarlija (The Bohemian Quarter)

Skadarlija is Belgrade’s answer to Montmartre — a cobblestoned street in the city center lined with traditional Serbian restaurants (kafanas) where live bands play folk and traditional music, waiters in vests carry trays of rakija, and the atmosphere is boisterous and warm. It is tourist-friendly but not touristy, and Serbians themselves eat and drink here regularly. A full dinner with live music, wine, and rakija runs $20–$35 per person.

24-Hour Kafanas

The kafana is a Serbian institution — part cafe, part bar, part restaurant, part social club. Some kafanas operate 24 hours, serving coffee in the morning, lunch at noon, and rakija until dawn. The atmosphere is distinctly Serbian: loud conversation, cigarette smoke (many still allow it), live music, and a sense that no one is in any hurry to leave. Znak Pitanja (“?”) is the oldest kafana in Belgrade, operating since 1823. Tri Šešira on Skadarlija is another classic.

Culture and Daily Life

Serbian culture is intense, social, and deeply rooted in traditions that have survived centuries of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influence. Daily life revolves around food, family, and the rituals of kafana culture. Here is what living in Serbia actually feels like.

Food Culture

Serbian food is hearty, meat-heavy, and delicious. The core of the cuisine is grilled meat — ćevapi (small grilled sausages of minced meat served in flatbread with onions and kajmak), pljeskavica (Serbia’s oversized answer to the hamburger), and ražnjići (grilled skewers). But the cuisine extends far beyond grills:

• Burek: Flaky phyllo pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. A staple breakfast from any pekara (bakery). Costs $1–$2.
• Kajmak: A thick, creamy dairy spread served with everything. If you try one Serbian food, make it ćevapi with kajmak.
• Sarma: Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, slow-cooked for hours. The ultimate Serbian comfort food, especially in winter.
• Šopska salata: A fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers topped with grated white cheese. Present at every meal.
• Rakija: The national spirit — a fruit brandy distilled from plums (šljivovica), grapes (lozovaça), or other fruits. It is served before meals, during meals, after meals, at celebrations, and at funerals. Refusing rakija is difficult. Homemade versions from family members are a point of intense pride.

Kafana Culture

The kafana is where Serbian social life happens. It is not a bar and not a restaurant — it is a third space where you go to be with people. Serbians spend hours in kafanas, drinking coffee or rakija, eating, talking, arguing about politics, and listening to live music. The concept of “spending time” is genuinely valued here — there is no sense of needing to order constantly or free up the table. A single coffee can last two hours, and no one bats an eye.

Orthodox Traditions

Serbia is predominantly Serbian Orthodox Christian, and religious traditions shape the cultural calendar. Slava (patron saint day celebration) is uniquely Serbian — each family celebrates the saint’s day they have inherited through the paternal line, with a ritual candle-lighting, feast, and gathering of family and friends. Christmas is celebrated on January 7th (Julian calendar). Easter follows the Orthodox calendar and involves elaborate traditions including egg-dyeing and midnight church services. These traditions are observed even by many secular Serbians and are deeply embedded in the social fabric.

Language: Latin and Cyrillic

Serbian is unique among European languages in using two scripts interchangeably: Latin (like English) and Cyrillic (like Russian). Official government documents use Cyrillic, but in daily life — especially in Belgrade and Novi Sad — Latin script dominates. Street signs, menus, and advertising use both. Most Serbians are fully literate in both scripts. For expats, this means you do not need to learn Cyrillic to navigate daily life, though basic familiarity helps with reading signs and official paperwork.

English proficiency in Belgrade is high among younger people (under 40) and in the service industry. Many Serbians also speak German, Italian, or French as second languages. Outside Belgrade, English proficiency drops, and learning basic Serbian phrases will dramatically improve your daily experience.

Belgrade Fortress (Kalemegdan)

The Kalemegdan Fortress sits at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers and is the emotional and geographic heart of Belgrade. The fortress complex includes medieval walls, Ottoman gates, a military museum, churches, and a sprawling park that is the city’s most popular green space. At sunset, Kalemegdan becomes Belgrade’s gathering place — families, couples, joggers, musicians, and vendors converge on the ramparts for views of the two rivers meeting below. It is free to enter and one of the most beautiful urban spaces in all of the Balkans.

Safety

Serbia is generally a safe country for expats. Violent crime against foreigners is very rare, and most visitors and residents report feeling safe walking around Belgrade and other cities at all hours. That said, there are some nuances.

• Violent crime: Very low for foreigners. Serbia has organized crime (as do all countries), but it does not target random civilians or tourists.
• Petty crime: Pickpocketing is uncommon compared to Western European tourist capitals (far less than Barcelona, Paris, or Rome). Exercise basic awareness on public transport and in crowded areas.
• Scams: Uncommon. The most common issue is unlicensed taxi drivers at Belgrade Airport overcharging passengers — use the official taxi stand or the CarGo app.
• Night safety: Belgrade is generally safe at night, including for women. The nightlife district areas (Savamala, Strahinjića Bana, splavovi) are well-populated until early morning.
• Football hooliganism: Serbia has a football hooligan culture that occasionally makes headlines, with clashes between fan groups of Red Star Belgrade and Partizan. These are highly isolated incidents that do not affect daily life — avoid derby match days in the immediate vicinity of stadiums.
• Political protests: Serbia has a politically active population, and protests occur periodically. These are generally peaceful but can block major streets and squares in Belgrade. They do not typically affect personal safety.
• Kosovo: The political situation regarding Kosovo remains unresolved. This does not affect daily life in Serbia for expats. Travel between Serbia and Kosovo is possible but involves separate border controls.

Weather and Climate

Serbia has a continental climate with distinct seasons. This means genuine variation throughout the year — hot summers, cold winters, and pleasant but short spring and autumn transitions.

• Summer (June–August): Hot. Average highs in Belgrade reach 30–35°C (86–95°F). July and August can see heat waves pushing above 38°C. Air conditioning is not universal in older apartments — check before renting. Summer evenings are warm and long, ideal for the outdoor kafana and splav culture.
• Autumn (September–November): Beautiful. September is warm and pleasant (20–25°C). October brings crisp weather and fall colors. November turns gray and rainy as winter approaches.
• Winter (December–February): Cold. Average temperatures hover between −5°C and 5°C (23–41°F). Snow falls several times per season but rarely stays for extended periods in Belgrade. Heating is essential — central heating (daljinsko grejanje) is common in apartments but can be unreliable. Budget for higher utility costs in winter.
• Spring (March–May): Variable. March is still cool and gray. April brings rain and rising temperatures. May is genuinely lovely — warm, green, and one of the best months to be in Belgrade.

If you are coming from a tropical or Mediterranean climate, be prepared for Serbian winters. They are manageable but gray, and seasonal affective impact is real. Many Belgrade expats plan winter escapes to Montenegro, Greece, or Southeast Asia.

Not in the EU — What That Means

Serbia’s non-EU status is the single biggest practical difference between it and neighboring Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, and Hungary. Understanding what this means — and what it does not mean — is essential for anyone considering Serbia as a long-term base. For context, explore our guides to neighboring EU members: Hungary and Croatia.

Schengen and Travel

Serbia is not part of the Schengen Area. This means:

• There are border controls when entering or leaving Serbia. Crossings to Hungary, Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria all involve passport checks (though they are generally quick).
• Your time in Serbia does not count toward the 90/180-day Schengen limit. This is actually an advantage — you can spend 90 days in the Schengen Area, then 90 days in Serbia, effectively extending your European stay.
• Non-EU citizens living in Serbia still need visas for Schengen countries (unless their nationality has visa-free access).

Currency

Serbia uses the Serbian Dinar (RSD), not the euro. The exchange rate has been relatively stable at roughly 117 RSD to 1 EUR (as of early 2026). Euros are widely accepted in practice — landlords often quote rent in euros, and some shops and restaurants accept euro cash — but the official currency for all transactions is the dinar. ATMs are plentiful and dispense dinars. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Belgrade and Novi Sad, less so in smaller towns.

EU Accession Path

Serbia has been an EU candidate country since 2012 and has opened most negotiation chapters. However, progress has stalled due to political issues — most notably the unresolved Kosovo status and concerns about rule of law, media freedom, and judicial independence. Realistic estimates for EU accession, if it happens, put it at 2030 at the earliest, and some analysts suggest it could take longer or not happen in the current geopolitical framework. For expats, this means you should plan for Serbia as a non-EU country for the foreseeable future.

Practical Implications

• Banking: Serbian banks are not part of the SEPA system, so euro transfers to/from EU banks are international wires with associated fees. Wise (TransferWise) and similar services help, but it is less seamless than banking within the EU.
• Consumer protections: Serbia has consumer protection laws, but they are not at EU/GDPR level. Online shopping protections, return policies, and data privacy are less robust.
• Product availability: Most international brands are available, but some EU-only products or services may not be offered in Serbia. Amazon does not deliver to Serbia directly (most expats use forwarding services from Hungary or Germany).

Who Should (and Should Not) Move to Serbia

Serbia is ideal if you…

• Are a remote worker or freelancer looking for one of Europe’s cheapest bases with genuine cultural depth
• Value nightlife, social energy, and a city that feels alive at all hours
• Want a Balkan base with easy access to the rest of Europe
• Are comfortable with bureaucracy, some language barriers, and a non-EU environment
• Appreciate hearty food, strong coffee, and stronger rakija
• Want to save money while living well — Serbia is one of the best value-for-money destinations in Europe

Serbia is less ideal if you…

• Need EU residency, Schengen freedom, or SEPA banking for your business
• Require world-class internet speeds (Serbia is good but not Romania or Baltic-level)
• Want warm weather year-round — Serbian winters are cold and gray
• Need a formal digital nomad visa with clear legal status
• Are vegetarian or vegan — Serbian cuisine is heavily meat-centric, and while options exist in Belgrade, they are limited elsewhere
• Need extensive international schooling options for children
• Are uncomfortable with cigarette smoke — smoking culture remains strong in Serbia despite indoor bans

Use the WhereNext country finder to compare Serbia against other destinations based on your specific priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely in Serbia on a tourist visa?

There is no formal prohibition on remote work for foreign clients while on a visa-free stay in Serbia. The 90-day entry is not categorized as a “tourist visa” per se — it is simply visa-free entry. Many digital nomads work remotely from Belgrade without any issues. However, for stays beyond 90 days or if you want to formalize your status, registering as a freelancer (preduzetnik) or establishing a DOO company gives you a proper legal basis for residency and work.

Is Belgrade safe for solo female expats?

Yes. Belgrade is generally safe for solo women, including at night in central areas and nightlife districts. Serbian culture has traditional elements, and some unwanted attention (catcalling) can occur, but it is less prevalent than in many Mediterranean or Middle Eastern countries. The nightlife areas are well-populated until early morning, and taxis/ride-hailing are cheap and reliable for getting home safely. Exercise the same awareness you would in any European capital.

Do I need to speak Serbian to live in Belgrade?

You can function in Belgrade without Serbian. English is widely spoken among younger people and in the service industry, tech sector, and international communities. Restaurant menus are often bilingual. Ride-hailing and delivery apps work in English. However, dealing with government offices, utilities, landlords, and older generations often requires Serbian. Learning basic phrases dramatically improves your daily interactions and earns genuine warmth from locals. For longer-term stays, investing in Serbian lessons (many affordable tutors are available, $10–$20 per hour) is highly recommended.

How do border runs work for extending my stay?

The visa-free entry allows 90 days within any 180-day period. Many expats leave Serbia briefly (a day trip or weekend to Budapest, Sarajevo, or Skopje is common) and re-enter to start a new 90-day period. In practice, Serbian border authorities are generally relaxed about this, but it is technically a gray area — the 180-day clock applies. For a fully legal long-term stay, obtaining a temporary residence permit through company registration or freelancer status is the proper route.

How does Serbia compare to Georgia for digital nomads?

Both are popular low-cost, non-EU bases. Georgia offers a 1-year visa-free stay and a 1% tax rate, which is more generous than Serbia’s 90-day entry and 15% tax. However, Serbia has better nightlife, stronger food culture (subjectively), closer proximity to Western Europe, and a more developed urban infrastructure. Georgia is cheaper and more tax-efficient; Serbia is more connected and culturally vibrant. Many nomads try both. See our Georgia guide for comparison.

What is the best time of year to move to Belgrade?

May or September. May is warm, green, and the city comes alive after winter. September is still warm (20–25°C), the summer crowds thin out, and rental prices are more negotiable. Avoid moving in January or February unless you enjoy gray skies and cold. Summer (July–August) is when Belgrade is at its most vibrant socially, but the heat (35°C+) and apartment-hunting competition can be challenging.

Next Steps

Serbia is one of those places that rewards the people who actually go. The data tells one story — low costs, favorable taxes, easy visa access. But the experience tells another: a city that never sleeps, people who welcome strangers like family, food that makes you question why you ever ate at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a cost of living that lets you save money while living generously. It is not polished. It is not in the EU. The bureaucracy will test your patience. But Belgrade has a pulse that very few cities in the world can match.

• Explore the Serbia country profile — full data across all seven WhereNext dimensions.
• Take the country finder quiz — 2 minutes to get a personalized country ranking based on your priorities.
• Do a trial run — fly in on the 90-day visa-free entry. Try Vraçar or Dorćol for a month. Hit the splavovi on a Saturday night. Eat ćevapi at Walter on Skadarlija. Have rakija with a stranger. You will know within two weeks whether Serbia is your place.

Comparing Serbia with other Balkan and Eastern European options? Read our Hungary guide or Croatia guide for EU neighbors, or explore the cheapest cities in Europe for digital nomads to see how Belgrade stacks up.

The data shows Serbia is one of Europe’s most compelling underdog destinations for relocation. Low costs, generous visa access, flat taxes, world-class nightlife, and a warmth of character that statistics cannot capture. The Danube is waiting. Start with the numbers, book a one-way ticket, and see for yourself why Belgrade keeps pulling people back.