In April 2025, the Republic of Serbia introduced the possibility of issuing digital travel permits (Visa C), significantly simplifying and accelerating the process of obtaining an electronic visa for foreigners. This new system enables citizens of 46 countries who require a visa to enter Serbia to apply online, without visiting Serbian diplomatic or consular missions in person. In addition to electronic application, the system also allows for the issuance of visas in electronic format, which greatly facilitates the process of obtaining a tourist visa.
The e-visa system is primarily intended for citizens of countries without Serbian diplomatic or consular missions, particularly in regions of South America, Africa, and Asia.
The digital travel permit, or Visa C (short-stay visa), serves as approval for entry and stay in Serbia for up to 90 days. Visa C can be valid for single or multiple entries within a 180-day period from the first entry and may also be used for transit purposes. A notable innovation is that, for certain countries, the visa is now issued in electronic form. Previously, only paper versions of Visa C and Visa D (long-stay visa) were available, issued as stickers in the foreigner’s passport.
Now, holders of ordinary passports from eligible countries can obtain Visa C in electronic (digital) format. Additional conditions, apart from having a valid legal basis for applying, include a low risk of illegal migration, reciprocal visa arrangements, and considerations of Serbia’s national security and interests.
Foreigners receive the visa as a PDF document designed in the colours of the Republic of Serbia, featuring security elements compliant with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
This type of document includes two QR codes:
- Validity QR code contains a web address where the validity of the visa can be verified, ensuring the document’s IT integrity;
- Border check QR code which, when scanned electronically, displays the data from the digital travel authorization form and the electronic signature, also for the purpose of electronic data validation.
The digital travel permit also includes an electronic seal from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirming the integrity of the data and the identity of the issuing authority.
Benefits of the Electronic Visa:
- 24/7 availability of the system, 365 days a year, regardless of time zones or the working hours of government offices;
- No need to travel to a Serbian diplomatic or consular mission to receive a physical visa in the foreigner’s passport;
- Significant savings in both time and costs.
Additionally, this system provides enhanced personal data protection. Currently, language support is available only in English, with plans to expand to several major world languages.
We believe that by introducing this innovative system, Serbia is demonstrating an increasing commitment to digitalizing public administration and modernizing its procedures. It also shows openness to fostering tourism, education, international cooperation, and attracting foreign investment. Through this initiative, Serbia aims to position itself as a country aligned with European and global standards, offering efficient and accessible services to foreigners.
The application process is straightforward and fast. The system has proven that when complete documentation is submitted, a visa can be issued in as little as one hour, which significantly facilitates travel and planning a stay in Serbia. For comprehensive legal support related to visa applications and obtaining temporary residence in Serbia, we recommend consulting with experts in this field of law to ensure every step is carried out legally and in the best interests of the applicant.
