The National Assembly of Republic of Serbia adopted the amendments to the Law on Foreign Nationals (LFN) and amendments to the Foreign Nationals Employment Act (FNEA) on 26 July 2023.

The most significant change introduced by the amendments to the two above mentioned laws, is the Single Permit that will simultaneously grant a foreigner with the right to reside and work in Serbia. The Single Permit will be issued in a single, simplified and quicker administrative procedure (single application procedure) via a web portal designated for foreigners, and in the form of a biometric document (card). Therefore, the application will be submitted electronically, either by the foreigner, employer in the name of the foreigner or another person authorized by the foreigner/employer. The time period for which the Single Permit can be issued will be up to three years, with the possibility of renewal.

Additional amendments to the LFN consist of provisions that liberalize the stay of foreigners in Serbia, on the one hand, as well as those that relate to the security aspect and control of entry and movement of foreigners. It is also worth mentioning that the minimum amount of fines for certain breaches of the law has been significantly increased in most cases.

Additional amendments to the FNEA include the expansion of the list of categories of foreigners who do not require a work permit, i.e. Single Permit, in order to have the right to work in Serbia. Furthermore, when it comes to the conditions that must be met for issuance of the Single Permit based on the different grounds for work, the amended requirements are generally less demanding compared to the previous rules. The amount of fines for certain breaches has also been increased.

The novelties introduced by the amendments to the LFN and FNEA will be applicable from 1 February 2024.

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