🇷🇸
Serbia
Balkans
RSD
Capital
Belgrade
Population
6.60M
Timezone
Europe/Belgrade
Calling Code
+381
Language
Serbian
Min Wage
€440/mo
Overview
Serbia is a landlocked Balkan nation with a strategic position at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe. Belgrade, one of the oldest cities in Europe, serves as a major economic and cultural hub in the region. Serbia is an EU candidate country with significant foreign direct investment flowing into its automotive, IT, and manufacturing sectors. The country has experienced steady economic growth, driven by exports and a competitive labor cost advantage.
Labor Laws
The standard working week in Serbia is 40 hours, with overtime limited to 8 hours per week. Employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 working days of paid annual leave per year. Workers have the right to form and join trade unions, and collective bargaining is legally protected. Maternity leave is 365 days, with the first 3 months at full pay and the remainder at a reduced rate. The notice period ranges from 15 to 30 days depending on the employment contract. Employers must pay social security contributions covering pension (25.5%), health (10.3%), and unemployment (0.75%). Night work and hazardous work conditions require additional compensation. Dismissal must be justified and follows a formal procedure, with employees entitled to challenge unfair dismissal in labor courts.
Work Permit Process
1
Step 1: Obtain a job offer from a Serbian employer who must apply for a work permit at the National Employment Service (NSZ).
Step 2: The employer must demonstrate that no suitable Serbian or EU candidate is available through a labor market test.
Step 3: Required documents: valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), employment contract, proof of qualifications (translated into Serbian and notarized), health certificate, and criminal record check from Bangladesh.
Step 4: Apply for a temporary residence permit at the Serbian embassy or consulate. Bangladesh does not have a Serbian embassy; apply through the Serbian Embassy in New Delhi, India.
Step 5: The work permit and temporary residence are issued as a combined single permit.
Step 6: Permits are initially issued for up to one year and are renewable.
Step 7: Upon arrival, register with local police within 24 hours.
Step 8: After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you may apply for permanent residence.
Industries & Professions
Key Industries
Automotive Manufacturing
Information Technology
Agriculture & Food Processing
Mining & Energy
Construction
Textiles
Telecommunications
Financial Services
In-Demand Professions
Factory Workers
Construction Laborers
Agricultural Workers
IT Developers
Warehouse Operatives
Welders & Fitters
Textile Workers
Delivery Drivers
Food Processing Workers
Electricians
Machine Operators
Companies Hiring Foreigners
Key Cities
Belgrade
280Capital and largest city, the economic, cultural, and IT hub of Serbia. Home to most multinational offices and a thriving startup ecosystem.
Novi Sad
150Second-largest city and the capital of Vojvodina province, known for its IT sector, universities, and food processing industry.
Nis
90Third-largest city in southern Serbia, an important industrial center with electronics, tobacco, and textile manufacturing.
Kragujevac
110Home to the Stellantis (formerly Fiat) automobile plant, the largest employer in central Serbia, along with supporting automotive supply chain industries.
Cost of Living
A one-bedroom apartment in central Belgrade costs approximately EUR 350-550 per month, while outside the center it ranges from EUR 200-350. Monthly groceries for one person average around EUR 180-250. A monthly public transport pass in Belgrade costs about EUR 25. Dining at an inexpensive restaurant costs EUR 5-8 per meal.
Climate & Weather
Serbia has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Belgrade temperatures range from -1C in January to 28C in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter periods in late spring and early summer.
Future Outlook
Serbia offers a rapidly growing economy with one of the lowest costs of living in Europe, making it attractive for workers seeking to save. The country is a major destination for foreign direct investment, particularly from China, Germany, and the UAE, creating new manufacturing and infrastructure jobs. Bangladeshi workers can find opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. While Serbia is not yet an EU member, its EU accession process means standards are progressively aligning with European norms.
Air Routes from Bangladesh
| Route | Airlines | Duration | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
DAC (Dhaka)
BEG (Belgrade)
|
Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Qatar Airways (via Doha), Air Serbia (connecting) | 12-16 hours | ৳55000 |
|
DAC (Dhaka)
BEG (Belgrade)
|
Emirates (via Dubai), flydubai (via Dubai) | 14-17 hours | ৳52000 |
Embassy Information
Address
No Serbian Embassy in Bangladesh. Nearest: Embassy of Serbia, 3/50-G Niti Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India
Get Directions
Phone
+91-11-2614-8238
Website
https://www.delhi.mfa.gov.rs
Office Hours
Monday-Friday: 09:00 - 16:00 IST