Work permits for foreign nationals in Serbia and employment law advice

Updated 17.09.2026 · 2 min read

Do you have an employer, or are you starting your own business in Serbia? First establish which document gives you the right to do that particular work. Having a company, a contract or tourist entry does not, by itself, answer this question.

1. How the single permit works
2. What the worker and employer need to provide
3. What timescales to allow
4. How RICS support works

The jedinstvena dozvola combines temporary residence and work under the relevant basis. The route differs for employment, self-employment and special work situations. First check citizenship, visa rules and existing status: some applicants will need an employment-based D visa.

The application may be submitted by the foreign national, the employer or an authorised person. If the individual already has another status, establish separately whether a single permit is needed or whether that status already carries a right to work.

• From the applicant: passport, current status, address and permit history.
• For employment: employer details, a draft or existing contract, position and working conditions.
• Where the particular position requires it: evidence of education, qualifications or experience.
• For self-employment: business registration details and documents for the chosen basis.
• If a representative applies: appropriate authority.

We will check both parties’ documents and identify the employer’s required actions, including interaction with the National Employment Service where necessary. An employment checklist cannot simply be copied for a sole trader.

The government portal states 15 days for consideration of a properly completed application. This is the processing period, not a promise that you will receive a card two weeks after first contacting us: document preparation, possible additional submissions, biometrics and issuance are separate stages.

A permit may be issued for up to three years, depending on the basis and documents. Confirm the right to start work before the planned first working day; merely submitting an application does not replace that check.

1. We will check your status, dates and the appropriate type of application.
2. We will agree the document package with the applicant and employer and help prepare missing documents.
3. We will prepare the application and support responses to further requests.
4. We will explain the next steps: biometrics, collection and monitoring the permit’s expiry date.

Basic support for an applicant starts at EUR 150. Government payments, translations and establishing the business itself are separate. For a change of employer, a change of basis or a complex structure, we will prepare an individual estimate in advance.

The main task is to align the immigration document with the actual work. The employee and employer can then understand when work can begin, which obligations arise and what to do if conditions change.

We will review your starting information, identify the sequence of actions and prepare a cost estimate. You will receive the scope of services, indicative timescales and a clear next step.

Information checked on 17 September 2026. Before applying, confirm the current fees and requirements for your category.

• Welcome to Serbia: single residence and work permit
• Welcome to Serbia: residence and work