General FAQ

QUICK ANSWERS

If you have some queries not covered in this section get in touch with your own question at hello@movetobelgrade.com.

WHERE IS SERBIA?

Serbia is located close to the Mediterranean in South-East of Europe and is bordered by 8 different countries: Hungary, Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo and North Macedonia.

From Belgrade, you can fly to every European capital within 1 to 3 hours. Moscow is just 2h 30 min hours away.

DO PEOPLE SPEAK ENGLISH IN SERBIA?

Yes, we do. Most of the younger population speak both English and other languages and enjoy chatting to foreigners. Many older Serbians, however, may know little or no English. Be brave in the local shops and try out your Serbian skills – prijatno!

For a practical learning path after you arrive, see our Speaking Serbian guide.

IS IT SAFE TO LIVE IN SERBIA?

Yes, it is. Serbia is a very safe country to live in for both foreigners and locals. Belgrade actually has a lower crime rate than many other European capitals. Serbians are very friendly and we are eager to share our traditions and customs with new visitors.

DO I NEED A VISA IF I WANT TO LIVE IN SERBIA?

It depends. Many nationalities (including the EU, UK, US, Canada and Australia) can enter Serbia visa-free for up to 90 days — but living here long-term is a different matter: you’ll need a temporary residence permit, and possibly an entry visa first depending on your passport. Serbia is not part of the European Union yet, although we are a candidate country.

We have a whole section regarding VISA procedures, please check it out for clear and detailed information on the visa and residence process.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN SERBIA?

Climate varies from the North to the South, but Serbia has a continental climate with cold and snowy winters, warm springs, very hot summers and windy and rainy autumns.

WHAT IS SERBIAN FOOD LIKE?

Delicious! Serbia has been home to many different cultures over the centuries, and our cuisine is a fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean influences, with a bit of Hungarian thrown in for good measure. Barbecued, fried, stewed, roasted – meat is most definitely a large part of our traditional diet, but there are also many vegetarian dishes to sample.

A number of vegan and vegetarians restaurants and cafes have opened in Belgrade and there are plenty of halal and kosher eating options available. Watch this space for pictures of our favourite Belgradian food in our gastronomy section.

WHAT IS THE SERBIAN CURRENCY?

The Serbian dinar (RSD). You can draw cash from international banks at all cash points, or if you prefer you can go directly to the bank. If you would like to exchange cash you do so at the airport when you arrive, but the best rates are found at the Menjačnica (exchange offices), which are one of the most popular small businesses in Serbia and found on most street corners.

The dinar floats, so never rely on a fixed number from a blog — check the National Bank of Serbia or any menjačnica board for today’s rate (in recent years €1 has hovered around 117 dinars).

WHAT IS THE COST OF LIVING IN SERBIA?

Belgrade is a very affordable place to live. Living costs are cheaper than the majority of countries in Europe, including rent, food, drink and transport. As the capital, Belgrade is slightly more expensive that smaller Serbian cities, but still much more affordable than cities such as London, Paris, Rome, Copenhagen – to name just a few.

For real numbers — rent by district, utilities, groceries and example monthly budgets — see our cost of living guide.

In this section

The Big Picture Serbia at a glance for future expats — key facts on geography, population, language, currency and culture to know before moving to Belgrade. Scouting Out the City Plan a scouting trip to Belgrade before you move — where to stay, what to explore by day and night, and how to get a feel for life in Serbia's capital.