The Balkans attract hundreds of tourists every year. And when people vacation in the states of this region, for example, in Seria, some involuntarily think about moving for permanent residence. But it is immediately worth noting that the economic situation in these countries is not the best. Although they also have advantages - similar languages and mentality. True, sooner or later you will still have to face practical issues, in particular, the problem of employment is very relevant. Will there be work in Serbia for Russians? What are the prospects for starting a business here?
Economic situation in the country
Life in Serbia is not easy. Many former compatriots will agree with this. And all because the state will not recover from the shocks that it experienced during the collapse of Yugoslavia.
Today we can talk about the slow economic development of the country. However, the pace is not impressive; investors are in no hurry to invest. The prospects have brightened a little since it became known that Serbia is a candidate for joining the European Union. Unfortunately, this did not help solve the problems with the economy, in particular with unemployment. A quarter of the state's population cannot find a job.
Cost of living in Serbia
You will have to come to terms with the fact that you, as a foreigner, will systematically spend considerable amounts of money. This fee includes: insurance, residency applications, long-term stay fees and much more.
The numbers are constantly changing, but one thing is certain - all costs will cost a pretty penny. By the way, if you came to work not alone but with your family, then taxes are paid for them too. And what’s strange is that you also have to pay for children and disabled people.
Car enthusiasts should take note - gasoline in Serbia is very expensive, so there is no point in taking a car with you.
Pros and cons of working in Serbia
Before you think about getting a job, you should weigh the pros and cons of such life changes. One of the advantages is moving to a European state, which still remains spiritually close to Russians. There are no strict requirements for knowledge of the Serbian language. So you don’t have to study it to officially get a job.
To come to the country for the first time, you won’t have to overcome many bureaucratic obstacles. If you want to create and run a business, the conditions for this are quite comfortable.
Moving on to the disadvantages, it is worth noting that recently the Labor Code of Serbia has changed not in favor of workers. Here their rights in terms of receiving social benefits and calculating wages were curtailed. This is due to the weak economy.
Visitors complain that it is difficult to find a place also because cronyism is widespread. There are few vacancies in the country. Knowledge of English does not add points to the applicant. The salary level is also not very pleasing.
Language knowledge
Russians feel quite free in the Balkan country. Particularly due to the fact that knowledge of the Serbian language is not a mandatory requirement for employment.
However, it is worth understanding that in practice foreigners are not always welcome into the company if they do not speak Serbian or at least English. And this can be understood, especially there are applicants from among local residents, with whom it will definitely be easier to establish communication and achieve mutual understanding.
What are the positive and negative aspects of the job?
Some people are hesitant about moving abroad. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of working in Serbia for Ukrainians in order to decide on their next choice.
Some benefits of the job
An undeniable plus is the atmosphere and beauty of the Republic. For foreigners, this is an important aspect when choosing a country or city. Loyal locals happily welcome people of different nationalities. There is no hard and fast rule about knowing the local language. You can purchase a visa with a minimum package of documents in a relatively short period of time. Utilities, food, and basic necessities are available to people with average incomes. The same applies to real estate. Conditions for doing business are being created.
Disadvantages of employment in the Republic
There are disadvantages that affect the income of foreigners. Poor economic development, leading to another disadvantage - fewer job openings. It is common to get hired with the help of acquaintances, so it is difficult to get a job without acquaintances. The average salary level (375 euros) does not cover costs. Paid positions of 650 euros are present on the labor market, but the demand for them is minimal. The unstable political situation in neighboring countries affects the economy.
Summing up, it is clear that work in Serbia is open to Ukrainians. The demand for educated professionals will not end because they are hard-working, resilient, and capable of learning. The search for options is based on abilities and skills. Of course, if the intended place of work has already been chosen, it will be much easier and there will be no problems. Otherwise, try to get a job, be persistent and confident. Work, strive for your goal anywhere, don’t give up, life doesn’t stand still, move forward.
Ways to find a job
If you want to move to the Balkans without much capital, you should immediately assume that there will be difficulties in finding employment. There are not enough vacancies for local residents, let alone visitors. However, there is work in Belgrade for Russians if they want to settle in Serbia. And, of course, it is worth using all the ways to find it.
Local newspapers
Sometimes you can find worthy offers in the press. There are publications that are highly respected by employers, so it is worth paying attention to the vacancies posted in them.
Internet
Of course, the World Wide Web is another place where you should do a good search for an employer. Finding a job in Serbia is quite possible with the help of the most famous portals in the country - https://serbia.hh.ru/, https://eurabota.com/in/serbia/, https://ru.iorjob.com/. It doesn't hurt to post your own resume.
Employment agencies
This method is also well known. Sometimes it makes sense to contact companies that specialize in finding vacancies. Of course, this service is paid, but you can trust an agency with a good reputation so as not to waste time on searches, which often end in nothing. Although the Serbs prefer not to turn to mediators.
Read also: Serbian citizenship for Russians
Job search plan: where to start
There is not much work in Serbia now, but with persistence and a little luck, you can always find a suitable place. Unlike a number of European countries, where it is easiest for foreigners to find employment in a working profession, here it makes sense to look for vacancies for both people with a university education and technical specialists.
Specialized Internet portals
To view the latest vacancies, visit the following sites:
- serbia.hh.ru;
- eurobota.com;
- www.iorjob.com.
Extensive work experience, a well-written resume and a good track record are a sure guarantee that you will receive an interesting offer within a few weeks.
Help from friends and relatives
In Serbia, positive recommendations from mutual friends or other respected people are sometimes valued more than solid work experience. That is why, before sending your resume to a vacancy that interests you, you should take advantage of the support of colleagues, friends, and relatives. Recommendations and guarantees from local residents are an almost 100% guarantee that you will get the desired position.
An interview with a Serbian employer will be successful if you get recommendations from friends
Corporate websites of large companies
The option of sending resumes directly to employers is becoming increasingly popular. In this way, the applicant can present himself in all his glory: not only fill out a standard resume, but also attach to it written recommendations from respected people or Serbian colleagues. This will increase your chances of getting a job several times.
Finding work through specialized agencies
Serbs do not like to look for work with the help of intermediaries; they say there are unnecessary expenses and there is no guarantee of employment. For foreigners, this option is also unattractive. Due to the simplified visa regime and low cost of living, it is much more convenient to come to the country and contact potential employers directly.
Employment by specialty
Very broad prospects are opening up for Russians in Serbia. Close contacts have been established between our countries, so it is quite possible to find someone worthy here.
So, there is always the opportunity to get a job as a pharmacist; working as a doctor in Serbia is attractive. These specialties are in demand and are well paid given the general income situation. By the way, it is worth remembering that employment is an excellent way to obtain a residence permit in Serbia. Therefore, if you manage to register officially, there will be no problems with legalization in the state.
Diploma confirmation
An agreement was signed between Russia and Serbia, which stipulates the mutual recognition of diplomas. The procedure is free and can be completed at a state university. Most often, the process lasts no longer than 3 months.
Available vacancies in the country
There are some interesting trends in the local labor market. Thus, Serbia is characterized by a shortage of technical personnel and specialists with university education. But there are enough workers here of our own. This is not the most promising option.
It is advisable to look for vacancies in Serbia for Russians in 2021 in international companies. For example, there are not enough mechanics and designers, electronic engineers and electricians.
There is a need for managers and IT specialists. You can also look for a position among accountants and lawyers. But, as a rule, such vacancies are filled very quickly.
Salary in Serbia
The minimum wage in Serbia is 180 euros. The average monthly salary in Belgrade is 480 euros, in other cities – 390 euros.
Salaries in Serbia by industry:
- Food industry – 90,000 dinars (750 euros).
- Pharmaceutical industry – 72,000 dinars (600 euros).
- Beverage production – 57,000 dinars (475 euros).
- Banking industry – 75,000 dinars (625 euros).
- Insurance – 75,000 dinars (625 euros).
- Mining industry – 66,000 dinars (550 euros).
- Scientific sector – 60,000 dinars (500 euros).
- Medical industry – 55,000 dinars (460 euros).
- Education sector – 42,000 dinars (350 euros).
Table: wages in Serbia by profession
| Speciality | Salary (expressed in US dollars) |
| Administrator | 377 |
| Architect | 730 |
| Banker | 800 |
| Accountant | 2 000 |
| Doctor | 700 |
| Engineer | 735 |
| Pilot | 1 700 |
| Marketer | 518 |
| Sales Manager | 1 310 |
| Security guard | 320 |
| Worker in production | 945 |
| Call center employee | 780 |
| Graphic Design Specialist | 590 |
| Information Technology Specialist | 1 200 |
| Maintenance Specialist | 500 |
| Insurer | 1 200 |
| Builder | 1 100 |
| Guide | 750 |
| Lawyer | 1 400 |
Labor market
In Serbia, people find work according to three common schemes. The first is to first come to an agreement with a company that is ready to hire a foreigner. Then an agreement is drawn up, on the basis of which you can already count on a residence permit.
The second option is to come to the Balkans and look for a place. And the third is to visit the country during certain seasons. This is a very worthy option if a person is not sure whether he wants to move to Serbia. He can come for the summer, work, see what kind of state this is. And then it’s easier to make a decision.
Seasonal work
Although the tourist destination is not very developed in Serbia, during the warmer months there is a need for additional hands. You can stay in a hotel or restaurant. Waiters and bartenders, salespeople and massage therapists, security guards and administrators are always needed.
During the cold season there is also seasonal work. This construction is the preparation of hotels and boarding houses.
Internship
It is not surprising that students willingly travel to Serbia. Where else can you enjoy an internship if not in the Balkans? Moreover, there are many options to live in a warm country and at the same time improve in your profession.
For example, you can come to work in agriculture. The food industry is another popular area. Winemakers will gain a lot of knowledge and experience here.
If your specialty allows, you can direct your efforts to mastering the coal mining industry. Finally, an internship in the country and in the tourism sector is possible. Large hotels readily accept students from Russia. This is a great opportunity to simultaneously deepen your knowledge of the English language and master Serbian.
Full time job
As is true for other countries, you can get a great job in Serbia if the person is an experienced professional with a decent education. You can conclude an employment contract with a salary of several thousand euros plus health insurance and a social package. Employers are ready to provide housing and a company car for especially valuable personnel.
But more often you have to rely on simpler conditions. And if you have to compete with the local population, it is better to know the Serbian language.
Salary level
Of course, income can vary significantly depending on the area of effort. The region of residence also matters. And yet, in order to look at the situation soberly, it is worth understanding that salaries in 2021 for Serbs are not as high as in other European countries, including the Balkans.
average salary
The income of employees in the food industry is considered worthy, where you can receive up to 1000 euros per month. Pharmacists – 700-800 euros. As elsewhere in the world, bankers and insurers earn good money - here salaries can be up to 800-900 euros.
At approximately the same level, doctors and researchers receive 500-600 euros. But highly specialized specialists can count on a slightly higher rate.
We emphasize that the average salary in Serbia in 2021 is only 390 euros. Compared to Russia, this is not bad. However, with such income and low prices for food and housing, one has to save on everything. But Serbia has very high utility tariffs.
average salary
The average salary in Serbia in 2021 after taxes is about 49.5 thousand dinars per month or 417 euros.
In many ways, this indicator refers to the capital of the country, Belgrade. In smaller Serbian cities, wages are even lower.
Specialists in the oil, gas, financial, insurance, information and pharmaceutical industries receive the most. The agricultural sector is considered the lowest paid.
The minimum wage established in Serbia is 234 euros . Employees in the service sector and the agricultural sector earn the least. Their earnings are 215 euros monthly. In other industries, income looks like this:
- Managers – from 500 euros.
- IT specialists and programmers – 800 euros.
- Food producers – 750 euros.
- Pharmacists – 600 euros.
- Banking employees – 600 euros.
- Research assistants – 500 euros.
- Doctors – 460-625 euros.
- Miners and oil workers – 550 euros.
- Social workers – about 350 euros.
In many areas, a system of bonuses and bonuses is used.
Starting your own business
A very promising option is to create from scratch or buy a business in Serbia. Successful entrepreneurs are willingly given a residence permit.
Of course, for this you need to have capital. The exact amount required depends on the form of the enterprise:
- for LLC – from 1 thousand euros;
- for closed joint stock companies – 10 thousand euros;
- for JSC – from 25 thousand euros.
It is easier for Russians to create a business in Serbia, including local citizens among the founders. Then it will be faster and easier to enter the market and meet the business elite.
Cost and standard of living of Serbs
The average salary in the country is 390 euros, and pensions are 220 euros. This is less than in other Balkan states, but higher than in Russia. Prices for basic products here are the same as in Moscow, or lower. So, 1 liter of milk costs 28 rubles, white bread – 25 rubles, a dozen eggs – 80 rubles, 1 kg of cheese – 305 rubles, 1 kg of potatoes – 37 rubles. One person spends less than one hundred euros on purchasing essential products.
In Serbia, apartments are cheaper than in Croatia and Montenegro. 1 sq. m of housing here will cost at least 600 euros, and in Belgrade – 7000. You can rent an apartment for 150 euros a month.
According to migrants, the country is safe and calm. There is no luxury here, but you can live comfortably. There may be vacancies in Serbia for Russians, but there are very few good offers even for Serbs. The ideal option for Russians is to move here to live, but receive funds for living from business in Russia.
Legal work
Foreigners who are not ready to comply with the norms of migration legislation almost never go to this state. If only because the authorities are loyal to visitors. Serbia is not as popular as more developed European countries.
However, it remains to be learned in what order to proceed in order to get a job legally. It's quite simple. First, a foreigner enters Serbia, and a Russian does not even need a visa for this. He can stay in the state for 30 days without receiving special permission.
Invitation
If you manage to find a job, the employer draws up an invitation letter. It is attached to the package of documents for an employment visa. However, an invitation will also be needed when a foreigner comes to a business meeting.
Work Visa
Still, if a person travels specifically for the purpose of employment, it is better to apply for a work visa. This document is issued for a period of 3 months. It can be extended for a year or 6 months.
There are two types of visa - for a person to be hired by someone in a company and for creating his own enterprise. In the first case, you will need a guarantee from the employer and permission from the labor exchange - it must approve the candidacy of the foreigner. And this happens when there are no local applicants for a vacancy.
Read also: Pros and cons of real estate in Serbia
Immigration to Serbia from Russia
Not every Russian citizen considers Serbia as a country in which he would like to live for a long time. It turns out that this country is really suitable for living, moreover, there are a huge number of advantages that allow us to say that Serbia is indeed a country that can meet the requirements of a high quality of life.
Therefore, if you need to move, be sure to consider Serbia. You will be pleasantly surprised as you will make many amazing discoveries for yourself. For example, you will be surprised that social policy is very well developed here, as well as a suitable climate.
- Immigration to Serbia: pros and cons
- Methods of immigration to Serbia from Russia
- Investments and business
- Study in Serbia
- Employment
- Family reunion and marriage
- Real estate
- Minors and pensioners
- How to get a residence permit
- Reviews from Russians who have moved
It turns out that this country is really suitable for living, moreover, there are a huge number of advantages that allow us to say that Serbia is indeed a country that can meet the requirements of a high quality of life.
Procedure for obtaining a work visa to Serbia
For a visit to Serbia, the duration of which does not exceed 30 days, a citizen of the Russian Federation does not need a visa.
At the control point it will be enough to present your passport and return ticket. A visa will not be required for those who came to the country at the invitation of a Serb.
For a longer stay on Serbian territory, foreigners will have to leave the country and return again, or obtain a visa document.
Workers who plan to carry out official work activities on Serbian territory must meet the following requirements:
- to be capable;
- their age must be over 18 years;
- stay on the territory of Serbia on a visa (tourist visa is not suitable).
To obtain a work visa, you will need to contact the consular department of the Serbian Embassy in Russia. This is where the single visa is issued. To obtain this document you will need the following set of papers from the candidate:
- a valid passport and its photocopy;
- a copy of the Russian passport of a citizen of the Russian Federation;
- photographs measuring 3.5*4.5 cm;
- application form of the established form;
- medical insurance;
- an invitation from an employer from Serbia (if available);
- certificate from place of work;
- if the citizen does not work, then a letter from the sponsor.
Work visa documents are issued for a period of 3 months with the possibility of extension for 12 months. There are types of visas that allow you to work in Serbia:
- work, to obtain it you will need an agreement with the employer and permission from the labor exchange;
- business, which makes it possible to open your own business in Serbia.
Important! Official employment, according to the legislation on the employment of foreign citizens, is mandatory. In accordance with the regulations, foreigners are required to obtain permits, a work visa and a residence permit for temporary residence in the country.
Therefore, citizens of the Russian Federation must, within 24 hours after entering the territory of Serbia, visit the police department at their intended place of residence and obtain permission to stay in the country. If a foreigner does not register , then a fine may be collected from him and deportation from the country may be applied.
Often foreign citizens try to find work illegally , but employers try not to get involved with such workers, as they can lead the company to litigation and large fines.
For example, these are sites such as serbia.
