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Serbia

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At a glance

Living index rating
Affordable
Monthly rent
€150 – €350 for a dorm or shared flat; central Belgrade studios €400+
Monthly food
RSD 20,000 – RSD 30,000 (about €170 – €260)
Other monthly expenses
RSD 8,000 – RSD 15,000 (transport, phone, health insurance, personal)
Visa processing time
D visa about 2 – 4 weeks; residence permit usually within about 15 days
Family allowed for students
Yes

Visa requirements

  • D visa if your nationality needs one, then register with the police within 24 hours of arriving (usually via your accommodation)
  • Apply for a temporary residence permit for education within your 90-day stay, through the Ministry of Interior's online portal
  • Proof of admission or enrolment, financial means and health insurance
  • Since 2024, temporary residence can be issued for up to 3 years
  • Working needs a separate work basis (e.g. a work permit or the unified residence and work permit)

Work permit after studies

  • No dedicated post-study visa
  • Graduates can apply for the unified residence and work permit (up to 3 years) with an employer; processing has been simplified since 2024

Citizenship route

  • Permanent residence after 3 years of continuous temporary residence
  • Citizenship after 3 years of permanent residence, usually giving up your other citizenship (not required if married to a Serbian citizen)

Family details

  • A spouse and children can apply for temporary residence for family reunification with a foreigner who has temporary residence
  • Adult family members with family reunification residence can work

Universities in Serbia

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (62), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.