A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Temporary and Permanent Residency Based on Professional Achievements

Serbia, with its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and hospitality, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency in the European part of the world. One of the promising programs for this is the “Talent” program. Let’s take a closer look at the opportunities it provides and how to take advantage of it.

What is the “Talent” program?

The “Talent” program offers foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain temporary and, eventually, permanent residency in Serbia based on their professional achievements and skills. This has been made possible through Serbia’s cooperation with other countries and a simplified process for attracting foreign talent and specialists.

An undeniable advantage of this program is its relatively low cost. If you’re not yet ready to run a business with monthly taxes, not planning to buy real estate, and haven’t found a job with a Serbian company, this option will be an excellent solution. You can only obtain temporary residence for one year, but this time is usually more than enough to decide on your future plans—finding clients, establishing a business, becoming a sought-after employee, or perhaps even changing your marital status :)

So, how to get residency based on talent?

1. Nostrifiy your higher education document

In other words, your first step is to obtain an official decision on the recognition of your diploma. In Serbia, the competent authority dealing with these matters is the Qualifications Agency. To apply, prepare the following documents:

• Original diploma with attachments

• Certified translation of the documents into Serbian

• Copy of your passport

• Proof of payment of the state fee.

You can submit the application in person or electronically, but be ready to prove your knowledge of the Serbian language—everything is in Serbian. It’s better to handle the nostrification process in advance, as it may take up to 60 days. You can find additional requirements and regulations in English here.

2. Gather the main documents for residency

The standard documents required for applying for residency in Serbia:

• Valid foreign passport

• Proof of financial means for your stay

• Proof of residence registration and other residence documents

• White card

• Proof of mandatory health insurance for the duration of your stay

• Proof of payment of the state fee

• Two photos (35x45 mm, color, frontal)

• Resume or CV

3. Submit your application

Schedule an appointment and submit your application to the migration service. Don’t forget to bring all necessary documents and pay the state fee in advance.

What do you get in the end?

• One year residency permit in Serbia

If your application is approved, you will receive your first temporary residency permit for one year. This year will be your opportunity to start a new life, find a job, clients, or simply enjoy the beauty of Serbia without tax concerns.

• Extension

Don’t worry, when the first year ends, you can extend your temporary residence permit by providing evidence of other grounds for staying in Serbia.

• Good luck

Remember, this is not just a residence permit, but your ticket to a world of opportunities. This year can be a much-needed breather in the flow of tough life decisions, giving you time to carefully choose your next steps.

If you have any questions after reading this article, feel free to reach out—we’ll figure it out together!