Planning to Start a Business in Serbia? Here’s What You Need to Know!

If you are a foreigner considering company formation in Serbia, you may have several questions:

• Who can establish a company in Serbia?
• What type of legal entity should I choose?
• What is the process for starting a business in Serbia?
• How long does it take to register a company in Serbia?

Don’t worry! This article guides you through every step of company formation in Serbia, even if you are a foreign national.

Can a Foreigner Start a Business in Serbia?

The good news is: yes, you can! It doesn’t matter where you come from. Regardless of nationality, any legal or natural person can establish a company in Serbia. This means that foreign entrepreneurs can become their businesses’ founders and legal representatives without any restrictions or conditions related to their nationality.

Serbia offers an open business environment for everyone, allowing both foreign investors and foreign nationals the opportunity for company formation in Serbia.

Who Can Be a Founder and Director of a Company in Serbia?

A foreigner can be 100% the founder and director of a company in Serbia.

However, please note that individuals who physically reside and work in Serbia may need to obtain specific permits, such as temporary residence and work permits. These are important factors to consider when planning your business, and we can help you with this process.

If you do not plan to reside in Serbia, you won’t need these permits for company formation.

What is the Process for Opening a Company in Serbia?

Starting a business in Serbia is a simple process that can be completed in just 10 business days, with the right professional assistance, which we are happy to provide.

Business Registers Agency

All companies in Serbia are registered with the Business Registers Agency (APR), and after registration, you will need to open a business bank account. Before company formation, you’ll need to make several key decisions.

• Choice of legal entity: Will you establish a sole proprietorship, a limited liability company (LLC), or another legal form?
• Company name: Choose a unique name for your business.
• Company address: Where will your business be registered?
• Business activity: What services or products will your company offer?
• Appointing a director: Who will be responsible for managing the company?
• Choosing a bank: Which bank will you use to open your business account?
• Accountant: Who will manage your company’s financial records?
• Founding act: This document defines the key aspects of your company and is required for registration.

Registration Address vs. Mailing Address

It’s important to note that there is a difference between your company’s registration address and the mailing address you’ll use for business correspondence. While the registration address is the official address where your company is legally registered, the mailing address can be a virtual office address, which can be used for receiving mail and business correspondence.

If you prefer a virtual office for your business correspondence, we can provide this service as well, with flexible monthly fees. This is a great solution for foreign entrepreneurs considering company formation in Serbia who may not want to maintain a physical office in Serbia but still need a professional address for their business.

Do You Want to Open a Sole Proprietorship or LLC?

If you decide to establish a sole proprietorship, our freelancer package is ideal for you. It includes everything you need to start your life and work in Serbia as a foreigner.

If you prefer to set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC), we are here to support your decision and ensure the company registration process goes smoothly and quickly, without complications. With an LLC, your tax obligations are different because you will be required to keep accounting books and submit annual financial reports. Additionally, you will be taxed based on your company’s profits.