Serbia, nestled in the heart of the Balkans, is making big moves in 2025 — and it’s not just about stunning landscapes and historic charm. It’s about opportunity.
Right now, Serbia is facing a serious workforce shortage across various key sectors, and the government is rolling out the red carpet for foreign professionals. With newly relaxed visa policies, high-paying job roles, and an increasingly open job market, Serbia has transformed into an under-the-radar dream destination for skilled workers seeking a fresh start in Europe.
Let’s dive into what’s new in 2025, which jobs are up for grabs, what salaries to expect, and how you can land your Serbia Work Visa this year—without breaking a sweat.
Breaking News: Serbia Needs Skilled Workers! — in 2025
Serbia’s booming construction, healthcare, IT, transportation, and manufacturing industries have triggered a national shortage of skilled workers. Employers are on the lookout for talent from abroad to keep the engines running.
Recognizing this, Serbia introduced major work visa reforms in 2024 that have fully taken effect in 2025. These reforms make it quicker, easier, and more efficient for foreign nationals to secure employment and legally live and work in the country.
What’s New in Serbia’s 2025 Work Visa Policy?
Here’s a snapshot of the updated work visa rules:
- Single Permit System: No more juggling separate residence and work permits. Serbia now issues a unified “Single Permit” that covers both.
- Faster Processing: Work visas now get processed in just 19 working days—previously, it could take up to 70 days!
- Longer Validity: The new permits can be granted for up to 3 years, making long-term relocation much smoother.
- Path to Permanent Residency: Foreign workers can now apply for permanent residence after 3 years of legal stay (down from 5 years).
- Digital Applications: Everything is now done online via Serbia’s eGovernment portal, making it accessible globally.
This new setup is aimed squarely at attracting skilled labor—and it’s working.
In-Demand Occupations in Serbia (2025) & What They Pay
Below are some of the top occupations currently in demand in Serbia for 2025, along with their average monthly or annual salaries:
| In-demand Occupation’s List | Average Salary (Monthly/Annual) |
|---|---|
| IT Specialists | €1,500 – €3,000 per month |
| Truck Drivers | RSD 120,000/month (~€1,000) |
| Auto Body Workers | RSD 176,000/month (~€1,470) |
| Electricians | €900 – €1,200 per month |
| Doctors (General) | €600 – €920 per month |
| Construction Workers | RSD 700,000 – 1,000,000/year (~€6,000–8,500) |
| Welders | RSD 800,000 – 1,100,000/year (~€6,800–9,300) |
| Machinists | RSD 900,000 – 1,200,000/year (~€7,600–10,200) |
| Engineers | €650 – €1,450 per month |
| Financial Analysts | €1,700 per month |
| Forklift Operators | RSD 600,000 – 800,000/year (~€5,100–6,800) |
The country’s flat 10% income tax rate also ensures that you take home a significant chunk of your earnings, compared to high-tax EU countries.
What Kind of Serbian Work Visa Do You Need?
If you’re planning to move to Serbia in 2025 to fill one of these skill gaps, here’s what you need to know:
Serbia’s “Single Permit” – The Go-To Work Visa
This permit allows you to live and work in Serbia legally, issued for up to 3 years and renewable.
Basic Requirements:
-
- Job Offer from a Serbian employer
- Valid Passport
- Proof of accommodation in Serbia
- Medical insurance
- Educational or professional qualification certificates
- Clean criminal record.
How to Apply?
- Get a job offer in a shortage occupation
- Your employer will register your job contract with the National Employment Service
- Apply for a Single Permit via Serbia’s eUprava portal
- Wait for approval (avg. 19 business days)
- Enter Serbia with your permit and begin working!
You can apply from your home country or while staying legally in Serbia.
Where to Find Skill Shortage Jobs in Serbia?
If you’re ready to make a move, here’s where to find jobs:
- Infostud.rs – Serbia’s largest job portal
- Poslovi.rs – Great for local and technical roles
- Joberty.com – Especially good for IT and tech roles
- LinkedIn – Multinational companies regularly post Serbian openings
- Glassdoor & Indeed – Useful for international-level searches
Pro tip: Search in both English and Serbian for best results. Many employers list in both languages.
Top 5 Recruitment Agencies in Serbia to Land That Dream Job
If job portals seem overwhelming, recruitment agencies in Serbia are pros at matching skilled foreigners with local companies. These agencies can even help with paperwork and interviews.
Why Serbia in 2025?
Still not convinced? Here’s why Serbia should be on your radar:
- Low cost of living
- Excellent internet and infrastructure
- Flat income tax rate (10%)
- Stunning natural beauty & vibrant cities
- Fast-track path to permanent residence
- Safe and welcoming society for expats.
Whether you’re a seasoned engineer, an ambitious electrician, a welder with experience, or an IT wizard looking for a fresh start, Serbia in 2025 is open for you — and it’s easier than ever to make the move.
Final Words: Pack Your Bags — Opportunity Awaits
With shortages driving up wages and immigration laws working in your favor, Serbia has quietly become one of Europe’s most underrated job destinations in 2025. So why wait? Find your skill, apply for your visa, and get ready to call Serbia home!
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