Serbia has long been a true magnet for entrepreneurs from around the globe. And why wouldn’t it be? Its convenient location, low taxes, and the opportunity to operate in both European and Asian markets make it an ideal spot for launching a business. Plus, registering a company there is a quick and straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the registration process so you can start growing your business on the international stage.
How to choose a company form when registering in Serbia
When you register a business in Serbia, you’re offered several organizational-legal forms, each suited for different purposes. It all depends on the size of your future business, your financial capabilities, the desired management structure, and the level of responsibility you’re willing to take on.
Limited liability company (DOO)
If you want to minimize risks and keep initial investments low, DOO is exactly what you need. This form is especially popular among small firms, as it limits the participants’ liability to their contributions to the charter capital. And yes, that contribution can be symbolic—just 100 Serbian dinars (less than one euro!).
You can establish a DOO with either one or several founders. Management is handled by a general assembly of participants and a director. Its simplicity and accessibility make this form an excellent choice for those looking to limit personal risks while investing minimal funds.
Joint-stock company (AD)
Thinking of creating a large company, attracting investors, and venturing into international markets? Then you should consider a joint-stock company. Here, things get a bit more serious: you need a charter capital of 3 million Serbian dinars (about 25,000 euros) to start.
Management involves a general meeting of shareholders and either a board of directors or a supervisory board. This structure ensures enhanced control and transparency. It’s the perfect option for companies aiming for significant investments and ambitious projects.
General partnership (OD)
If you’re ready to take full responsibility for the business, a general partnership might be the way to go. This form involves two or more partners who jointly manage the company’s affairs and share the risks.
The unique thing about OD is that no initial capital is required, but all participants are liable for the firm’s obligations with their personal assets. If you’re eager to actively participate in management and are prepared to shoulder all risks, this is your choice.
Limited partnership (KD)
Want to share responsibility among partners? Then you might want to look at a limited partnership. There are two types of participants here:
- General partners manage the business and bear full responsibility.
- Limited partners invest money but don’t participate in management and are only liable up to their contributions.
Like in OD, there’s no requirement for initial capital, making this form attractive for those seeking flexible partnerships with defined roles.
Sole proprietorship (PR)
Freelancers and small business owners often choose the sole proprietor format. It’s the simplest way to operate independently while running a business under your own name.
A sole proprietor is fully responsible for the company’s obligations. This format is ideal if autonomy and minimal management complexity are important to you.
Branch of a foreign company
If an international company wants to operate in Serbia without creating a separate legal entity, it can register a branch. In this case, all branch obligations fall on the parent company, and its activities are overseen by an appointed representative. It’s a convenient way to expand into a new market.
Representative office of a foreign company
When the main goal is to study the Serbian market and establish business contacts rather than engage in commercial activities, you can open a representative office. This structure allows for marketing, market research, and other non-profit tasks. However, it cannot conduct commercial operations.
Each company form has its pros and cons. It all hinges on your goals and how you envision your business. The key is to make a choice that aligns with your needs and plans!
How to register a company in Serbia: step-by-step guide
Registering a business in Serbia isn’t complicated if you break it down into steps. From preparing documents to receiving your certificate, it usually takes about two weeks. Of course, this timeframe might vary if the registering authority is particularly busy. The main thing is to prepare your documents properly and follow the rules to ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Choose your company format. First off, you need to decide which type of company suits you best. The most popular option is the limited liability company. This form is convenient for small and medium businesses, as it limits the personal liability of founders and simplifies management. If you plan to attract investors through stock issuance, consider a joint-stock company.
- Come up with a company name. Your company’s name should be unique, legal, and reflect your area of activity. It’s best to check its availability in the Serbian Business Registration Agency (APR) database—you can do this online. Have a few options ready, so you don’t delay the process if your first choice is already taken.
- Prepare your documents. The main documents for registration are the company’s charter and, if you have multiple founders, the founding agreement. Here, you’ll outline the basic rules for how the business operates: who’s responsible for what, how decisions are made, and so on. All papers need to be notarized.
- Register your address. Your company must have a legal address in Serbia, which can be either owned or rented. All official notifications will be sent to this address.
- Submit documents to the registration agency. You’ll need to submit a complete set of documents (including the application, charter, proof of payment of state fees, etc.) to the APR. They check the documents, and if everything is in order, they’ll issue a certificate of company registration. This document confirms that your business is officially registered.
- Open a bank account. After receiving your certificate, you need to open a permanent corporate account at one of Serbia’s banks. This account will receive all company funds, including the start-up capital transferred from a temporary account.
- Obtain licenses (if needed). Some types of businesses (like healthcare or finance) may require special permits. Keep this in mind when planning.
How to register a company in Serbia remotely
Starting in 2023, opening a business in Serbia has become even easier. Now you can do everything online through the APR portal, all from the comfort of your home. This is part of the country’s digitalization program, and it really saves a ton of time.
Here’s how it works:
- Register on the portal and gain access to your personal account.
- Upload all the documents: charter, founding agreement, information about the company’s address and founders.
- Sign the documents with an electronic signature (you can obtain this at certified centers in Serbia).
- Pay the state fee through the portal.
- Monitor your application status in real-time.
Once everything is checked and approved, you’ll receive an electronic registration certificate and a unique company number. Usually, the entire process takes about 5–7 business days.
Electronic registration is especially convenient for entrepreneurs from other countries: you can handle everything remotely without needing to travel to Serbia.
Starting a business in Serbia is easier than it seems. Follow these steps, and in just a couple of weeks, you’ll be ready to open the doors to your company in this promising country!