Blog · 2024-03-13

How to obtain Serbian citizenship in 2025

Serbia is a landlocked country in south-eastern Europe. It borders North Macedonia to the south, Bulgaria and Romania to the east, Hungary to the north, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, and Montenegro and Albania to the south-west. The country is known for its rich customs and traditions and for the diverse mix of nationalities among its people. Its capital and largest city is Belgrade.

How to obtain Serbian citizenship

Option 1. By birth or descent

To acquire citizenship by birth, at least one of the following conditions must be met: both parents are Serbian citizens, or one parent is a Serbian citizen and the child is born on Serbian territory.

To acquire citizenship by descent, it is enough for at least one parent to be a Serbian citizen.

Option 2. Marriage to a Serbian citizen

Citizenship can be obtained through family reunification. However, by the time the application is filed, the couple must have been married for at least three years.

Option 3. Naturalization

To obtain Serbian citizenship through naturalization, you must live in the country continuously for three years while holding a residence permit.

Option 4. Investment

Investment opens a path to citizenship by way of a residence permit. Funds can be placed in real estate (with the condition that the investor actually lives there), in a business, or in the country's economy.

Advantages of Serbian citizenship

• Visa-free entry to more than 135 countries, including Australia, China and Japan.
• A low cost of living.
• A mild climate.
• Low taxes: 10% personal income tax and 15% corporate tax.
• The ability to open a bank account in Europe.
• A high standard of healthcare.

Drawbacks of Serbian citizenship

• Dual citizenship is not permitted.
• Employment can be difficult: wages are low and knowledge of Serbian is required.

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