Every arrival in a new environment is a challenge, but that does not mean that it must necessarily be difficult and stressful. Your first days or months in Serbia will go smoothly and effortlessly if you get informed, make a plan according to your needs and possibilities, and set realistic expectations of yourself.

Before departure, be well informed about the rules and procedures for entering and regulating your stay in the Republic of Serbia. Our Guide to Entry, Visas and Residence can be a good first step in that direction.

It is now possible to register the residence of foreign citizens coming to Serbia electronically, thanks to the "Registration of foreign citizen’s residence" service on the eGovernment Portal.

Arriving with your family requires several additional steps if you need to enrol your children in kindergarten or school. We advise you to start planning enrolment in school and kindergarten on time and contact educational institutions directly for all the necessary information.

If you are coming alone and want your family to join you, we suggest you read our text on family reunification possibilities.

After you have completed all administrative duties, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the culture, customs and way of life of the population in the Republic of Serbia in order to build your comfortable life in the new environment as quickly and easily as possible.

Moving to a new environment is also an emotional journey that usually lasts up to six months, and sometimes longer. You may go through the following stages: excitement, frustration, adaptation, confidence. Each of these stages is a step in the integration process.

The most sensitive period usually occurs a few weeks after arrival, when the great excitement has passed. Then it can happen that you face frustrations in the new environment and nostalgia for friends, family, favourite coffee place and previous place of living. All these are common moments that most people go through when they move to a new environment, and especially to a new country. In this most sensitive moment, it is important to start exploring a new environment, find new favourite places and make new friends. The good thing about Serbia is the openness and hospitality of people who are almost always in the mood for a talk, getting to know each other and socializing. Give yourself some time and you will quickly build your new community that will make you feel at home.