Imagine gaining access to a world of opportunities, where your expertise, investment, or achievements could grant you the keys to a new nationality.
The Serbia citizenship by exception program offers just that, inviting skilled individuals that have made a significant contribution to their field the chance to obtain Serbian citizenship.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or trailblazer in your field, Serbia welcomes those who can help shape its future.
In this guide you will learn about:
What is Serbia Citizenship by Exception?
The Serbia Citizenship by Exception program allows individuals to obtain Serbian citizenship based on their significant contribution to the country. This can include business investments or notable achievements in fields like technology, art, and sports.
One of the main differences of Serbian citizenship by exception to other foreign citizenship programs is that applicants are directly approved by the president and government of Serbia.
Who is eligible for Serbia Citizenship by Exception?
The Serbian Citizenship by Exception program is broken down into five categories, including:
- Science: Researchers and scientists whose work has made a significant impact within their fields while aligning with the research and development plans of Serbia may be eligible.
- Business: Business owners and entrepreneurs who establish successful businesses that generate substantial employment and economic development within Serbia.
- Sports: Coaches and athletes who have had notable achievements in sports and can aid sports programs in Serbia to propel international recognition of the Serbian sports market.
- Technology: Experts and innovators in the technology industry are invited to apply. This includes those in engineering, IT, and telecommunications who can contribute to Serbia’s growing infrastructure development.
- Culture: Cultural figures, writers, artists, and musicians can apply if they have made a significant contribution to the Serbian arts and culture scene.
The aim of the citizenship by exception program in Serbia is to obtain the very best talent across various industries to propel the country into the future.
However, not everyone meets the above criteria. Luckily, Serbia residency by investment is another enticing program that invites foreign nationals to make affordable investments into the country to obtain residency. Once one has a Serbia residence permit for six years, they are eligible for Serbian citizenship.
Read our Serbia Residency by Investment Guide
Document Requirements for Serbia Citizenship by Exception
To start the application process, you must submit the following documents:
- A certified copy of a valid passport.
- A police clearance certificate from your home country confirming a clean criminal record.
- Business incorporation documents (if applicable) proving the establishment of your company in Serbia.
- A certified copy or original birth certificate.
- A detailed resume or business plan showcasing your qualifications and objectives.
Application Process for Serbia Citizenship by Exception
The typical application process for Serbia citizenship by exception includes the following:
 | Step one: Determine eligibility | Ensure you meet the criteria for citizenship by exception. This includes making significant contributions to Serbia in business, investment, sports, arts, or technology. |
 | Step two: Prepare required documents | Gather key documents for your application. |
 | Step three: Submit your application | Apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia or the nearest Serbian embassy/consulate. Working with a legal expert may help ensure that your application is complete and meets the required guidelines to avoid delays. |
 | Step four: Serbian government review and approval | Serbian authorities will assess your application, including background checks and evaluating your contributions to the country. |
 | Step five: Presidential decision | Citizenship by exception is granted by the President of the Republic of Serbia on a case-by-case basis. |
 | Step six: Receive Serbian citizenship | If approved, you will take an oath (if required) and receive your Serbian passport and citizenship certificate. |
Taxes for Serbia Citizenship by Exception
Obtaining Serbian citizenship by exception does not automatically make you a tax resident of Serbia. However, you need to ensure you don’t spend more than 183 days in a year within the country. Speaking with a tax specialist here can help to ensure you know where your tax responsibilities lie.
But even if you are required to pay taxes in Serbia, you’re in luck, the country has some of the lowest tax rates in Europe. The personal income tax rate is between 10%-20%, while the corporate tax is 15%.
Benefits of Serbia Citizenship by Exception
Investment opportunities
Serbia is one of the top European countries for investment potential. The country is actively invested in seeking the very best talents to propel the country into the future.
Visa free travel
Obtaining a Serbian passport offers Serbian citizens access to 148 visa free countries. This includes all EU countries, Russia, Singapore, and Canada, to name a few.
Fast track to citizenship
Unlike naturalization which can take up to six years, the program offers Serbian citizenship within a few months.
Favorable business environment
Having citizenship in Serbia opens up a world of business opportunities, including trade agreements with the European Union.
Rights to live and work in the country
As a Serbian citizenship holder you have the same rights as Serbian citizens, including the right to live and work in the country.
Favorable tax environment
Serbia offers some of the lowest tax rates in Europe, including income tax rates between 10%-20% and corporate tax rates of 20%.
Dual citizenship allowances
Serbia permits dual citizenship allowing citizens to acquire citizenship in more than one country.
Family inclusion
Applicants are permitted to include their spouse in their application.How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Serbia Citizenship by Exception
What is Serbia citizenship by exception?
Serbia citizenship by exception is a special pathway to Serbian citizenship granted to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country. This includes notable achievements in science, business, culture, sports, and technology. Unlike other pathways, citizenship is awarded on a case-by-case basis, typically by a decision of the Serbian President.
Who is eligible for Serbia citizenship by exception?
Serbia grants citizenship by exception to individuals who make notable contributions to the country, whether through business, investments, or outstanding achievements in fields such as technology, art, and sports.
How can I apply for Serbia citizenship by exception?
To apply for citizenship by exception in Serbia you generally do the following:
- Ensure eligibility and prepare documents
- Submit your application
- Await government review and approval
- Await the presidential decision
- Receive citizenship
What are the requirements for Serbia citizenship by exception?
The requirements include making a significant contribution to Serbia, having no criminal record, ensuring your documents are up to date, and obtaining approval from the Serbian President.
How long does it take to get Serbia citizenship by exception?
The timeline for obtaining Serbia citizenship by exception can vary. Generally, it takes between six months to a year.
What documents are needed for Serbia citizenship by exception
- A certified copy of a valid passport.
- A police clearance certificate confirming a clean criminal record.
- Business incorporation documents (if applicable)
- A certified copy or original birth certificate.
- A detailed resume or business plan
Is Serbia citizenship by exception available to foreigners?
Yes, Serbia citizenship by exception is available to foreigners. This pathway is designed for individuals who are not Serbian nationals but have made significant contributions to Serbia in areas such as business, investment, technology, arts, or sports.
Can I apply for Serbia citizenship by exception if I have no Serbian ancestry?
Yes, you can apply for Serbia citizenship by exception even if you have no Serbian descent or ancestry. This citizenship route is specifically designed for individuals who make significant contributions to Serbia
Does Serbia citizenship by exception require residency in Serbia?
No, you do not need to acquire Serbian residency (permanent residence permit) before applying for the program.
Can I obtain Serbia citizenship by exception through investment?
Yes, you can obtain citizenship by exception through investment, as long as the investment has made a significant impact on the country. This can include investment in a business or establishing a company that promotes future growth in Serbia.
Can family members be included in a Serbia citizenship by exception application?
Yes, applicants are free to include their family members on their citizenship application for citizenship by exception in Serbia.
What are the benefits of obtaining Serbia citizenship by exception?
The benefits of gaining Serbian citizenship include:
- Investment opportunities
- Visa-free travel
- Fast track to citizenship
- Favorable business environment
- Rights to live and work in the country
- Favorable tax environment
- Dual citizenship allowances
- Family inclusion
Does Serbia have dual citizenship?
Yes, Serbian dual citizenship allows a foreign citizen to obtain citizenship in Serbia and maintain their original citizenship.
