Naturalization in Serbia is obtaining Serbian citizenship by foreign nationals who legally reside there. This process involves several stages and requires meeting certain conditions. Here are the main aspects of naturalization in Serbia.
Main stages of naturalization
- Obtaining a residence permit (temporary residence):
- Initially, a foreign national must obtain a residence permit in Serbia. The validity of a residence permit is usually 1 year, but it can be extended if the conditions for its issuance are met and maintained.
- The grounds for obtaining a residence permit may include running a business, employment, family reunification, education, investments in Serbia’s economy, purchasing property, or origin.
- Permanent residence:
- After a certain period of residence in Serbia with a temporary permit, usually 3 years, one can apply for permanent residence.
- Applying for citizenship:
- After obtaining permanent residence and fulfilling all necessary conditions, one can apply for Serbian citizenship.
Conditions for obtaining citizenship through naturalization
- Legal capacity: The applicant must be legally competent.
- Permanent residence: Possession of permanent residence in Serbia.
- Adulthood: The applicant must be of legal age.
- Renunciation of previous citizenship: Proof of renouncing the previous citizenship or an obligation to do so.
- Residency: Proof of having a confirmed place of residence for 3 years prior to the application.
- Recognition of Serbia as one’s homeland: Writing a declaration of willingness to recognize Serbia as one’s homeland.
Simplified naturalization
For certain categories of people, such as ethnic Serbs or descendants of those born in Serbia or the former Yugoslavia, a simplified naturalization procedure is provided. In this case, documents proving ethnic ties to the country, such as birth or marriage certificates of ancestors, must be submitted.
Benefits of naturalization
- The ability to legally live and work in Serbia.
- Access to social and healthcare services.
- The right to participate in elections and other civil liberties.
Naturalization in Serbia is a process that requires time and meeting certain conditions, but it offers significant benefits to those who wish to become citizens of this country.
