Employment law in Serbia
In Serbia an employment contract must be in writing and signed before the employee starts work. Termination is allowed only on grounds set by the Labour Law and must follow a strict procedure.
For employers
We prepare employment contracts, internal rulebooks and the documents a Serbian employer must have. We also advise on restructuring and redundancy.
- Employment contracts and annexes
- Rulebook on work organisation and job positions
- Work outside employment (service and temporary contracts)
- Non-compete clauses
- Disciplinary procedures and termination
For employees
We advise employees on their rights, unpaid salaries, overtime and unlawful termination. An unlawful dismissal can be challenged in court.
A lawsuit against a termination decision must be filed within 60 days of its delivery. Missing this deadline usually means losing the right to challenge it.
Foreign employees
A foreigner who works in Serbia needs a permit to stay and work. In most cases this is a single permit for residence and work, applied for electronically.
We advise the employer on the documents and the procedure.
How we handle it
- ConsultationWe review the situation, the contract and the documents.
- Documents or adviceWe prepare contracts, rulebooks or a written opinion on your rights and obligations.
- ProcedureWe guide the employer through termination procedures, or file a lawsuit for the employee.
- CourtIf there is a dispute, we represent you before the court.
What to send us
- Employment contract and annexes
- Internal rulebooks of the employer
- Payslips and records of payments
- Warning or termination decision, if any
- Correspondence with the employer or employee
- Power of attorney for our office
Frequently asked questions
Does an employment contract in Serbia have to be written?
Yes. The contract must be in writing and signed before the employee starts work. If it is not, an employment relationship can be presumed from the first day of work.
How long can a probation period last in Serbia?
The Labour Law allows a probation period of up to six months. It must be agreed in the employment contract.
Can an employer fire an employee without a reason in Serbia?
No. Termination by the employer is allowed only on grounds listed in the Labour Law, such as breach of duty, poor performance or redundancy. The employer must also follow the prescribed procedure.
What is the deadline to challenge a dismissal?
A lawsuit must be filed within 60 days of delivery of the termination decision. The court can order reinstatement or damages if the dismissal was unlawful.
Does a foreigner need a work permit in Serbia?
In most cases yes. A foreign employee usually applies for a single permit that covers both residence and work, and some categories are exempt.
How are your fees set?
Fees follow the Serbian Attorney Tariff. You receive a written offer before work starts.
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