Opening a personal bank account in Serbia as a non-resident
A foreign citizen without residence in Serbia can open a dinar and a foreign currency account at a Serbian bank as a non-resident. You need a valid passport, proof of address abroad and a clear purpose for the account, and the bank makes the final decision.
Resident or non-resident
Under the Foreign Exchange Act, your status depends on where you live and on your residence in Serbia, not only on your citizenship. A foreigner without a residence permit is a non-resident. A foreigner with approved residence in Serbia may be treated as a resident.
Your status decides which type of account the bank opens and which rules apply to payments and transfers. It is worth clarifying this before you visit the bank.
What the account is used for
A non-resident can hold a dinar account and a foreign currency account, for example in euros. The bank records the purpose of the account and monitors it.
- receiving rent from a flat in Serbia
- paying the price and taxes when buying property
- receiving proceeds from a sale or an inheritance
- covering family expenses in Serbia
- savings
What the bank checks
Each bank applies its own know-your-customer and anti-money laundering rules. The bank asks about the purpose of the account, the source of funds and the expected activity, and may request more evidence.
Banks usually ask for a tax residence self-certification with your foreign tax identification number, for FATCA and CRS reporting. The bank decides on its own whether to open the account.
How we help
Identification usually takes place in person at a branch. Our aim is that you complete it in one visit.
- we check your documents before the visit
- we prepare a short explanation of the purpose and source of funds
- we arrange the branch appointment
- we attend with you and interpret in English, Russian or Italian
- we assist with transfers of proceeds from a sale or inheritance
How we handle it
- First contactYou tell us why you need the account and when you will be in Serbia. We reply within 24 hours on working days.
- Document checkWe review your documents and tell you what else the bank is likely to ask for.
- Written offerYou receive a written offer under the Attorney Tariff before work starts.
- Branch appointmentWe book the appointment and send the bank any information it asks for in advance, where possible.
- Account openingWe go with you to the branch. The bank identifies you and decides on the account.
What to send us
- Valid passport
- Proof of address abroad, such as a utility bill or registration certificate
- Foreign tax identification number
- Short description of the purpose of the account
- Evidence of the source of funds, such as a lease, sale contract or inheritance decision
- Contact details abroad
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner open a bank account in Serbia without residence?
Yes. You can open a non-resident account in dinars and in foreign currency. The bank asks for your passport, address and the purpose of the account, and decides whether to open it.
Do I need to be in Serbia to open the account?
In most cases yes, because banks identify new clients in person at a branch. Whether a bank accepts another way of identification depends on its internal rules.
Can I have a euro account in Serbia?
Yes. A non-resident can hold a foreign currency account, for example in euros, next to a dinar account. The currencies on offer depend on the bank.
Why does the bank ask where my money comes from?
Under the Serbian anti-money laundering law, banks must establish the purpose of the account and the source of funds. Having the evidence ready in advance avoids repeat visits.
Do I need a Serbian tax number to open a personal account?
Banks usually ask for your foreign tax identification number for FATCA and CRS purposes. A Serbian tax number may be needed for other steps, such as buying property, and we can help obtain it.
Can I transfer money from a property sale in Serbia abroad?
As a rule, yes, with documents that show where the money comes from. The bank usually asks for the sale contract and proof that the tax was paid, and we help prepare them.
Can the bank refuse to open my account?
Yes. The bank decides under its own rules. Good preparation reduces follow-up questions, but the outcome depends on the bank.
How are your fees set?
Fees follow the Serbian Attorney Tariff. You receive a written offer before work starts, and bank charges are paid separately.
Talk to a lawyer
Describe your case in a few sentences. We reply within 24 hours on working days and tell you whether and how we can help.
- srdjan@bogiceviclaw.com
- +381 65 678 4991
- Viber
- +381 63 104 9891