Corporate mobility and immigration compliance in Serbia
Our company and Fragomen successfully hosted an insightful webinar titled “Corporate Mobility and Immigration Compliance in Serbia”, bringing together HR professionals, corporate mobility specialists, and legal experts to discuss key aspects of workforce mobility and regulatory compliance in Serbia.
We were pleased with your participation in the session and appreciate the thoughtful questions that came in afterward. As promised, we’ve compiled answers to the questions received to support you in understanding immigration and mobility processes in Serbia.
Here are responses to the key questions we received, covering:
Q: Are there quotas or restrictions on hiring foreigners in certain industries?
A: Serbia does not impose quotas or industry-specific restrictions on hiring foreign workers. While the Law on Employment of Foreign Citizens allows the government to introduce quotas in case of labor market disruptions, such measures have not been implemented. In December 2024, the Ministry of Labor indicated that, despite approximately 100,000 foreign workers in Serbia, there were no significant labor market disruptions warranting the introduction of quotas.
However, employers must adhere to certain procedures when hiring foreign nationals. They are required to conduct a labor market test to ensure no qualified local candidates are available for the position. This involves submission of Labor market test application with the National Employment Agency and allowing a four-day period to identify suitable local candidates. If no appropriate candidates are found, the employer will receive the report confirming that and may proceed to hire a foreign national.
It is important for employers to stay informed about any future policy changes, as the government retains the authority to introduce quotas or restrictions if labor market conditions require such measures.
Q: Can foreign employee who holds the Single permit change the employer without need to change a Single permit?
A: Yes, a foreign national holding a Single Permit may work with multiple employers, change their employer, or change the employment type without the need to apply for a new permit. However, any such change must be approved by the relevant authorities. In particular, the National Employment Service must issue formal consent for the requested change.
Q: Is knowledge of the Serbian language required for work?
A: In most cases, knowledge of the Serbian language is not required to work in Serbia—but it depends on the job and industry. Jobs that involve direct communication with local clients or the public may require knowledge of Serbian language.
Even if not required, learning Serbian can be a major advantage—both professionally and socially. Many expats take part-time language classes after moving, and employers often appreciate the effort.
Q: Does a company need to establish a legal entity in Serbia to hire foreign talent?
A: Before hiring a foreign national, the company must be fully established and officially registered in Serbia. Alternatively, a foreign employee can be assigned to a client’s entity in Serbia. In such cases, a Business Cooperation Agreement between the sending and receiving entities is required.
Q: What are the minimum salary requirements in Serbia for foreign nationals hired locally?
A: The minimum net salary in Serbia for 2025 is 308 RSD per hour (approximately 2.7 EUR) or 56,672 RSD per month (approximately 484 EUR). This minimum salary requirement applies regardless of the payroll location or the type of employment contract—whether local or foreign.
Q: Can students work in Serbia with their Residence permit obtained based on studies?
A: Yes, a student residence permit allows the holder to work in Serbia with any employer. However, the number of working hours is limited to a maximum of 20 hours per week.
Q: Can minors apply for a residence permit in Serbia online?
A: Applicants aged 16 and above can submit their applications through the online portal. For children under the age of 16, the application must be submitted in person to the relevant immigration authority.