Moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina
Last updated on Oct 02, 2023
Summary: Expats and digital nomads are drawn to Bosnia & Herzegovina for its low cost of living, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Bosnia & Herzegovina are Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka. People looking for a place to live in Bosnia & Herzegovina can search online for rental listings, contact local real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums. Additionally, many expats and digital nomads find housing through word of mouth from other expats and digital nomads already living in the country.
What do I need to know before moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bosnia & Herzegovina, they said:
"Before moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina, expats should be aware that the country is still recovering from the Bosnian War of the 1990s and that the infrastructure is still in the process of being rebuilt. Expats should also be aware that the country is divided into two entities, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska, and that each has its own government and laws. Expats should also be aware that the official language is Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian, and that English is not widely spoken. Additionally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Bosnia & Herzegovina is relatively low, and that the country is known for its stunning natural beauty," said one expat who made the move to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
How do I find a place to live in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"The best way to find a place to live in Bosnia & Herzegovina is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation in the country. Additionally, you can also search for real estate agents in the area who can help you find a suitable place to live. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the country for recommendations," said one expat who made the move to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
"Expat homes and apartments in Bosnia & Herzegovina tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and cable television. Expats often choose to live in larger cities such as Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar, where they can find a variety of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Expats can also find furnished apartments in many areas, making it easier to move in and start living right away," remarked one expat in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What is the average cost of housing in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
If you are thinking about moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Bosnia & Herzegovina varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in the capital city of Sarajevo is relatively affordable, with prices ranging from around €200 to €500 per month. Outside of the capital, prices tend to be lower, with some rural areas offering apartments for as little as €100 per month. Buying a property in Bosnia & Herzegovina is also relatively affordable, with prices ranging from around €50,000 to €100,000 for a two-bedroom apartment," said one expat who made the move to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Should I buy or rent a home in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Bosnia & Herzegovina, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Bosnia & Herzegovina, it is important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Buying a home can be a great investment, but it requires a large upfront cost and a long-term commitment. Renting a home can be more affordable and flexible, but it may not provide the same financial benefits as owning a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What should I pack when moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina?
We asked people living in Bosnia & Herzegovina to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring clothing that is appropriate for the weather, such as light layers for the summer and warm layers for the winter. It is also important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, books, and music. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and other important paperwork. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary items for your job or studies, such as a laptop, textbooks, and other supplies," remarked one expat in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
We asked people in Bosnia & Herzegovina if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Bosnia & Herzegovina. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly. Avoid making negative comments about the country's history or politics, as this can be seen as offensive. It is also important to be aware of religious customs, and to be respectful of religious sites and symbols. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public, as this can be seen as rude," replied a member in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Why do people move to Bosnia & Herzegovina?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Bosnia & Herzegovina, they responded:
"Bosnia & Herzegovina is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. The country is home to a diverse range of cultures, religions, and languages, making it a great place to experience a unique and diverse culture. The country also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing and hiking to rafting and kayaking. Additionally, Bosnia & Herzegovina is a safe and welcoming place to live, with a strong sense of community and a relaxed lifestyle. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and low cost of living, Bosnia & Herzegovina is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," wrote one expat living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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How are healthcare services Bosnia & Herzegovina?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Bosnia & Herzegovina, they replied:
"Bosnia & Herzegovina has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Bosnia & Herzegovina is generally considered to be good, although there are some areas where the quality of care is lower than in other parts of the country. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Bosnia & Herzegovina can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition to the public healthcare system, there are also private healthcare providers in Bosnia & Herzegovina that offer more specialized services," replied one expat when asked about moving to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What are medical services in Bosnia & Herzegovina like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Bosnia & Herzegovina, they replied:
"Medical services in Bosnia & Herzegovina are generally of a good standard, with a wide range of both public and private healthcare facilities available. The country has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, offering a range of services from general practice to specialized care. The country also has a number of highly-trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers. In addition, the government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of health insurance schemes available to cover the cost of medical treatment," said one expat living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Bosnia & Herzegovina accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Bosnia & Herzegovina like?
- Is the cost of living in Bosnia & Herzegovina high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What are healthcare services like in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- Is the cost of living in Bosnia & Herzegovina high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What is the weather like in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- Are there good restaurants in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?