×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange | Bosnia & Herzegovina Index
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Expat Exchange > Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia & Herzegovina

  Beaches  

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country located in the Balkan Peninsula of Southeast Europe. It is bordered by Croatia to the north, west, and south, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the southeast. The country's capital and largest city is Sarajevo. Known for its natural beauty, Bosnia and Herzegovina is characterized by its diverse landscape, which includes rolling hills, dense forests, and a section of the Dinaric Alps. The country has a rich history that dates back to the Neolithic age and has been under the influence of various empires and kingdoms, including the Ottoman Empire and Austro-Hungarian Empire. This has resulted in a cultural mosaic, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Bosnia and Herzegovina declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1992, leading to a devastating war that lasted until 1995. Today, the country is a parliamentary republic with a complex system of governance to accommodate its ethnic diversity, primarily consisting of Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats. The economy is transitioning from a state-controlled system to a market-oriented one, with industries such as metal, energy, and textiles playing significant roles. Tourism is growing, thanks to attractions like the medieval village of Počitelj, the historic bridge of Mostar, and the Olympic mountains around Sarajevo. The country is also known for its religious landmarks, including mosques, churches, and synagogues, which reflect its multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. Despite the scars of war, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of resilience and beauty, with a population known for its hospitality and warmth.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Bosnia & Herzegovina is generally considered low compared to other European countries. Expenses such as housing, food, and transportation are relatively affordable, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and retirees.

Weather

Bosnia & Herzegovina experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. In the higher elevations, the climate can be more alpine with cooler temperatures and more precipitation. The coastal region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry, warm summers.

Educational System Bosnia & Herzegovina

The educational system in Bosnia & Herzegovina is a reflection of the country's complex administrative structure, divided into two entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska, and the Brčko District. Each entity has its own education ministry and policies, leading to some variations in the system. Generally, education is mandatory for children from the age of six to fifteen, which includes primary and lower secondary education. Primary education lasts for nine years, after which students may choose to attend a general or vocational upper secondary school for three to four years. The general secondary schools, or gymnasia, prepare students for higher education, while vocational schools offer specialized training for various professions. The school year typically starts in early September and ends in late June, with breaks in winter and spring. Upon completion of secondary education, students may take the Matura exam, which is necessary for university entrance. The quality of education varies, with urban areas often having better-equipped schools and more qualified teachers than rural regions. Parents moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina should be aware that while public education is free, schools may have different languages of instruction, including Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian, reflecting the country's ethnic diversity

Connect with Our Partners
Connect with our trusted local partners in Bosnia & Herzegovina and around the world through our Partner Connect tool. From moving companies to expat health insurance and more, our partners are here to help.
AGS Worldwide Movers SJB Global William Russell GeoBlue  PassportCard Expat Health Insurance Cigna Global Health iVisa The Relocator Universal Tax Professionals Traveling Mailbox

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency visa in Bosnia & Herzegovina involves several steps and can be considered an average challenge compared to other countries. The most common type of visa for expats seeking residency is the Temporary Residence Permit. To apply for this permit, expats must first enter Bosnia & Herzegovina on a tourist visa, which allows them to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. During this time, they must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit at the local Service for Foreigners' Affairs office. The application process requires various documents, including a valid passport, proof of health insurance, a criminal record check from the applicant's home country, proof of sufficient financial means to support themselves, and a reason for requesting residency, such as employment, family reunification, or education. If the residency is for employment purposes, a work permit must also be obtained, which requires a job offer from a Bosnian company. Once the application is submitted, it can take several weeks or even months for the authorities to process it. If approved, the Temporary Residence Permit is usually granted for a period of up to one year, but it can be extended. It's important to note that the process can be bureaucratic and may require patience and possibly the assistance of a local lawyer or an agency that specializes in immigration matters. For digital nomads, while there is no specific visa category, they can apply for the Temporary Residence Permit by demonstrating they have sufficient funds and a valid reason for staying, such as remote work for a non-Bosnian company. The challenge for digital nomads is to satisfy the authorities that they can support themselves without taking local jobs and that their work is entirely conducted online. Overall, the process of obtaining residency in Bosnia & Herzegovina is manageable but requires thorough preparation and an understanding of the local legal requirements. It is advisable for expats to begin the process well in advance of their intended move date and to seek professional advice if they encounter difficulties with the application.

Living in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Healthcare in Bosnia & Herzegovina

The healthcare system in Bosnia & Herzegovina is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is funded by mandatory health insurance contributions and provides a range of services to citizens, including primary care, hospital care, and prescription medications. However, the quality of public healthcare can vary, with urban areas typically having better facilities and more specialists than rural areas. Private healthcare is also available and is often turned to for faster service and more modern facilities, but it can be expensive. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare by registering with the Health Insurance Fund and paying contributions, but many opt for private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage and quicker access to services.

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides