Introduction
Permanent residence in the Republic of Serbia is a significant step for foreigners who wish to integrate into our society on a long-term basis. Recent amendments to the Law on Foreigners bring important changes, making the process of obtaining this status easier and facilitating the integration of foreigners into our society. Below, we take a detailed look at these legal changes and the conditions for acquiring permanent residence in Serbia.
Conditions for Permanent Residence
According to the new amendments to the Law on Foreigners, foreigners can now apply for permanent residence after three years of continuous residence in the Republic of Serbia—down from the previous five-year requirement. Continuous residence refers to actual presence in Serbia, with certain permissible periods of absence.
Additionally, the foreigner must have an approved temporary residence at the time of submitting the application.
Special Cases
In addition to standard conditions, there are specific situations in which permanent residence can be granted—such as minors with one parent who is a Serbian citizen, or a foreigner of Serbian origin.
Jurisdiction and Deadlines
The request for permanent residence is submitted to the competent authority, the Ministry of Internal Affairs – Directorate for Foreigners. The Ministry has a deadline of 60 days to decide on the application. Various factors are taken into account during this process, including a security risk assessment.
Simplified Procedure for Permanent Residence
Previously, foreigners had to reside in Serbia continuously for five years to gain the right to permanent residence. However, under the new amendments, this requirement has been reduced to three years. Additionally, the definition of effective residence has been clarified, allowing for specific periods of absence during those three years.
Requirements for Permanent Residence
An application for permanent residence can be submitted after obtaining temporary residence, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs must make a decision within 60 days. The new law also introduces special cases under which permanent residence may be granted, including minors whose parents are Serbian citizens, persons of Serbian origin, or foreigners whose permanent residence is deemed to be in the interest of the Republic of Serbia.
Rights and Obligations of Permanently Resident Foreigners
Upon being granted permanent residence, foreigners acquire many of the same rights and obligations as Serbian citizens. This includes the right to work without additional permits and the obligation to respect the laws and regulations of Serbia. However, certain rights and duties may still differ in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.
Conclusion
Obtaining permanent residence in Serbia is becoming more accessible to foreigners, thanks to the new amendments to the Law on Foreigners. This opens up new opportunities for those wishing to make Serbia their long-term home.
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.
