Can you get residency in Serbia by buying property?

Answer a few quick questions and see straight away whether a property can support a residence permit in Serbia.

Yes. Owning a home in Serbia is a ground for temporary residence, with no minimum value. Since 2024 the permit can be issued for up to three years. You must live in the property; EU citizens need the permit too.

Your result: Yes, owning a home in Serbia can support a temporary residence permit. Serbia sets no minimum value; the home must be your residence.

What the permit gives

  • Temporary residence for up to three years per grant (since the 2024 reform), renewable.

What it does not give

  • The right to work on its own.
  • EU or Schengen rights: Serbia is not in the EU.

Conditions

  • The property must be residential and registered to you (a notarised purchase contract can be enough to apply).
  • You must live in it: renting it out can lead to the permit being revoked.
  • Your country must have reciprocity with Serbia to buy in the first place.

Confirm with a lawyer

  • Some advisers say property alone is not always enough and that you should also show means of support; confirm what your local police office asks for.

Rules as of 2026-10-13. Not legal advice.

See homes in Serbia · Serbia buying guide · Buying costs in Serbia · European residency by buying property

Questions about Serbia residency by property

Can I get residency in Serbia by buying property?

Yes. Owning a home is a ground for temporary residence, with no minimum value. You must live in the property.

How long is the permit?

Up to three years per grant since the 2024 reform of the Law on Foreigners, and it can be renewed.

Can I rent out the property?

Not if it is the basis of your permit: the home must be where you live.

Sources