Residency VS Citizenship in SERBIA? What's the difference?

Summary

In this video, Milit, a Serbian lawyer, clarifies the differences between visas, residency, and citizenship in Serbia. He explains the steps involved in obtaining a visa, including the D-type visa for long stays, and the requirements for temporary and permanent residency. After three years of temporary residency, individuals can apply for permanent residency and eventually Serbian citizenship, which provides various benefits such as voting rights, social services, and visa-free travel. Serbian citizenship is permanent and offers attractive tax advantages, making it an appealing option for many. The video serves as a guide for those considering a move to Serbia.

Takeaways

• 😀 A visa is a permission slip allowing you to enter and stay in Serbia for a limited period, typically up to 180 days in a year.
• 😀 Visas are different from residency; obtaining a visa is often required before applying for residency in Serbia.
• 😀 There are different types of visas, including tourist visas (for short stays), business visas (for professional engagements), and D-type visas (for stays longer than 90 days).
• 😀 To apply for residency in Serbia, you must first obtain a D-type visa unless you're from the EU, USA, UK, Canada, or Australia.
• 😀 Temporary residency in Serbia is granted for reasons such as employment, education, or family union, and it is renewable annually as long as conditions are met.
• 😀 Permanent residency can be obtained after maintaining temporary residency for 3 years. This status does not require renewal and allows you to stay indefinitely in Serbia.
• 😀 Residency in Serbia requires you to physically live in the country, making you a tax resident of Serbia, which can complicate tax obligations across multiple jurisdictions.
• 😀 After holding temporary residency for 3 years, you can apply for Serbian citizenship, which grants permanent status and security.
• 😀 Serbian citizenship does not require a language test and cannot be revoked once granted, offering a secure connection to the country.
• 😀 Serbian citizenship provides numerous benefits, including full access to social benefits, healthcare, and education, and the ability to travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access to many countries.
• 😀 Understanding the differences between visas, residency, and citizenship is crucial for anyone planning to move to Serbia, as each step has its own requirements and implications.

Q & A

What is the main difference between a visa, residency, and citizenship in Serbia?

A visa grants temporary permission to enter and stay in Serbia for a limited period, residency allows you to live in Serbia for an extended time, and citizenship offers full rights and permanent connection to the country.

How long can you stay in Serbia on a visa?

On a visa, you can stay in Serbia for a maximum of 180 days within a year.

Can a tourist visa be used to apply for residency in Serbia?

No, a tourist visa cannot be used to apply for residency. You need a specific D-type visa if you plan to stay in Serbia for more than 90 days.

What is the purpose of the D-type visa in Serbia?

The D-type visa is specifically for people planning to stay in Serbia for over 90 days and is required before applying for temporary residency.

What types of visas are available for people visiting Serbia?

Serbia offers various types of visas, including tourist visas for short stays, business visas for professional purposes, and D-type visas for stays longer than 90 days.

What are the requirements for obtaining temporary residency in Serbia?

To obtain temporary residency, you need to provide documentation such as proof of accommodation, health insurance, and a clear purpose for your stay (e.g., employment, education, or family reunification).

How long is temporary residency valid in Serbia?

Temporary residency is usually granted for one year and can be renewed annually as long as the original conditions are met.

How can one qualify for permanent residency in Serbia?

You can apply for permanent residency after living in Serbia for at least three years on temporary residency.

Does Serbia require a language test for citizenship?

No, Serbia does not require a language test for citizenship.

What benefits does Serbian citizenship offer?

Serbian citizenship grants full rights, including the ability to vote, work without restrictions, access social benefits like healthcare and education, and enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries.