How to Form a Company in Serbia: A Quick Guide for 2025

Opening a company in Serbia has become an increasingly popular option for foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to expand their business in the Balkans. If you are a foreigner and want to establish a company in Serbia, you may be wondering: Who can open a business in Serbia?

In this blog, we will provide information to help you understand the necessary steps for company registration in Serbia, from choosing the right legal form to the registration process.

Who Can Open a Company in Serbia?

Serbia offers an open market to everyone, regardless of nationality. This means you can open a company in Serbia even if you are not a resident. Both individuals and legal entities, whether foreign or resident, can establish a company in Serbia. Foreign citizens can open a company, become owners, and directly manage their business without restrictions.

Legal Forms for Company Formation in Serbia

Several types of companies can be formed in Serbia. The choice of the right legal form depends on your type of business, the number of founders, and your goals. The main forms of business entities that can be established are:

• Limited Liability Company (DOO) – This is the most popular type of company in Serbia for foreign investors. It allows for company formation with minimal capital and protects the personal assets of the founders.
• Sole Proprietorship – This form is simple to set up and does not require capital, but the entrepreneur is personally liable for business obligations.
• Joint Stock Company (AD) – Suitable for larger businesses looking to raise capital by issuing shares.
• Limited Partnership – This form allows for sharing of responsibilities and capital between silent partners (command lists) and active partners (complements).
• General Partnership – A business owned by two or more partners who share responsibility and business assets.

If you want to establish a company in Serbia, the most common choice is the Limited Liability Company (DOO) because it allows for simple operations, minimal establishment costs, and protection of personal assets.

The Process of Company Registration in Serbia

Registering a company in Serbia is a relatively straightforward process, which can be done online, of course, with knowledge of local regulations. Here are the steps you should be familiar with:

1. Choosing the Legal Form – Before you open a company in Serbia, you need to decide which type of business entity you wish to register.
2. Choosing the Company Name – The name of the company must be unique and cannot be already in use.
3. Company Address – You will need to secure a business address in Serbia for registration purposes.
4. Organizational Structure – Decide who will be the owners and directors of the company.
5. Minimum Founding Capital – For a Limited Liability Company in Serbia, the minimum capital is only 100 RSD (less than 1 EUR), while higher amounts may be required for larger activities.
6. Choosing a Bank for the Business Account – A business account is required to carry out all financial transactions.

After completing these steps, your company can be registered with the Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR) and you can operate.

Advantages of Opening a Company in Serbia

There are several advantages to forming a company in Serbia, especially if you are a foreigner looking to do business in the Balkans:

• Favorable taxes and business costs – Serbia’s tax policy is competitive, and business costs are lower than in many European countries.
• Simple registration process – With online business registration, you can open a company quickly and efficiently.
• Quick integration into the local market – Serbia has signed free trade agreements with the EU, China, Russia, and many other countries, which means you will have access to large markets.
• Foreign investors can easily open a company in Serbia and take advantage of these benefits, making Serbia an attractive business destination.

What are the requirements for foreigners establishing a company in Serbia?

Although Serbia is open to foreign nationals, the process of setting up a company requires a few specific conditions for foreign investors:

Obtaining work and residence permits in Serbia – If a foreigner is the director or manager of the company, they may need to obtain a work permit and residence permit.

Compliance with legislation – Entrepreneurs must comply with Serbian business laws and regulations, as well as submit regular taxes and reports.