Introduction: Electronic Company Registration
As of May 17, 2023, electronic company registration has become mandatory in Serbia. This change brings numerous advantages to entrepreneurs, allowing them to register a business without physically visiting the Business Registers Agency (APR). All that is needed is a qualified electronic certificate, a computer with the NEXU application installed, and a payment card for fees. In this blog, we’ll walk you through all the steps and benefits of this modern approach to company formation.
One-Click Company Formation
Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Tools
To begin the eRegistration process, each founder must have a qualified electronic certificate issued by a certified authority in Serbia. This certificate enables electronic signing of documents, a prerequisite for successful eRegistration. Additionally, the NEXU application, developed by APR, must be installed. NEXU enables the creation and signing of electronic documents, including invoices and contracts.
Step 2: Prepare Electronic Documents
All documents submitted during the eRegistration process must be in electronic format. They can be natively created (e.g., the Articles of Association) or digitized from paper documents. Digitization is done by scanning paper originals, which must then be electronically signed using a qualified certificate by the issuer, a lawyer, or a notary.
Step 3: Submit the Electronic Application
The registration application is submitted exclusively through the APR’s electronic platform. It must be signed with a qualified electronic signature, the appropriate fee must be paid, and all necessary documents uploaded. The user can then monitor the application status within the same system.
Practical Examples: How eRegistration Works in Practice
Registering an LLC (DOO)
Marko is an entrepreneur who wants to establish a limited liability company (DOO). He first obtains a qualified electronic certificate and installs the NEXU app. He then creates the founding document electronically and signs it with his e-signature. After completing everything, he submits the application through the APR platform, pays the fee using a Visa card, and waits to receive the incorporation decision via email.
The Lawyer’s Role in eRegistration
Ana is a business lawyer whose client—a foreign investor—wants to establish a DOO in Serbia. The client issues Ana a special power of attorney to file the application and sign the founding document on their behalf. Ana digitizes the power of attorney, signs it electronically, and submits the application online. The process is completed within a few days, and the client receives the incorporation decision without ever needing to visit Serbia.
Benefits of Electronic Company Formation
Speed and Efficiency
Electronic registration significantly accelerates the process. Instead of waiting in lines and submitting paper documents, everything can be done online or through a lawyer’s office. The entire registration can be completed in just a few days.
Cost Reduction
Administrative costs are reduced by eliminating the need for in-person visits to the APR, physical document printing, and courier services. Digital documentation streamlines the process and reduces overhead.
Security and Transparency
Electronic signatures and qualified certificates ensure a high level of document validity and security. All information is digitally protected, reducing the risk of forgery and unauthorized changes.
Conclusion: The Future Is Digital
Electronic company registration marks a major step toward modernizing Serbia’s business environment. This process allows entrepreneurs to efficiently and securely establish companies without physical presence at the APR. Whether you’re a domestic entrepreneur or a foreign investor, eRegistration is simple, practical, and aligned with modern digital standards. Take advantage of digitalization—form your company today using only a lawyer’s power of attorney!
For more information and legal support, Dvornić Law Office is at your service.
Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions and support, please contact Dvornić Law Office.
