Guide to Residency in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Obtaining a residency visa in Bosnia & Herzegovina is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Bosnia & Herzegovina gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Please note that the following instructions are a general guide and the actual process may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. It is always best to consult with the local embassy, consulate, or immigration office for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Here is a general outline of the steps one might take to obtain residency status in Bosnia & Herzegovina:

• Check Eligibility
  • Ensure you meet the criteria for applying for residency, such as having a valid passport, reason for stay (work, study, family reunification, etc.), and sufficient financial means.
• Obtain a Visa (if required)
  • Check if you need a visa to enter Bosnia & Herzegovina by visiting the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Visa Information.
  • Apply for a visa at the nearest Bosnian embassy or consulate if necessary.
• Enter Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Travel to Bosnia & Herzegovina with your valid passport and visa (if required).
• Register your address
  • Within 48 hours of arrival, register your place of residence with the local police department.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the local tax authority office to apply for a Unique Master Citizen Number (JMBG).
  • Provide the required documents, such as your passport and proof of residence.
• Apply for Residency
  • Go to the Service for Foreigners' Affairs office or local police administration dealing with foreigners.
  • Submit the residency application form along with the required documents, which typically include:
    • Valid passport
    • Proof of address registration
    • Proof of purpose of stay (employment contract, enrollment in educational institution, etc.)
    • Proof of health insurance
    • Proof of sufficient financial means
    • Recent photo
    • Receipt of payment of the administrative fee
  • Wait for the application to be processed, which may take several weeks or months.
• Receive Residency Permit
  • Once approved, you will receive a temporary residence permit, which is usually valid for one year and can be renewed.
• Renew Residency
  • Apply for renewal of your residency permit before it expires, following a similar process as the initial application.

For the most accurate and detailed information, please refer to the official Service for Foreigners' Affairs website, which may have an English version available or offer contact information for further assistance: Service for Foreigners' Affairs. Remember that immigration laws and procedures can change, so it's important to verify the current requirements and seek legal advice if necessary.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Bosnia & Herzegovina?

"To enter Bosnia & Herzegovina, visitors must obtain a visa from a Bosnian embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The visa application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Bosnia & Herzegovina, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Applicants must also provide proof of employment or other legal source of income, proof of accommodation, and a valid health insurance policy. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive a residence permit valid for up to one year," commented one member living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.