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Serbia Company Formation

Serbia Company Formation: Your Strategic Gateway to Europe and Beyond Main Characteristics and the basic rules of Company registration in Serbia

Serbia Company Formation with BRIS Group

BRIS Group provides professional Serbia company formation services for entrepreneurs and international investors seeking a strategic business base in Southeast Europe. Establishing a company in Serbia offers access to the European market, a skilled workforce, competitive tax rates, and various investment incentives — making it ideal for international business expansion.

Our specialists handle the complete Serbia company registration process remotely, including corporate banking assistance, compliance, and ongoing administration. With BRIS Group, your Serbian company will be fully compliant and ready to operate efficiently across Europe and globally.

Guide to Forming a Company in Serbia

Serbia is rapidly emerging as a prime destination for international entrepreneurs seeking an affordable, strategically located, and business-friendly environment in Europe. Although not yet a member of the European Union, Serbia maintains preferential trade agreements with both the EU and numerous global markets, offering unique opportunities for international business expansion.

This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth overview of Serbia company formation, covering its key advantages, company structures, registration requirements, tax system, and step-by-step incorporation process.

Why Choose Serbia for Company Formation?

Serbia combines low operational costs, a skilled workforce, and a favorable tax environment, making it an ideal gateway for businesses targeting both the EU and Eastern European markets.

Key Advantages of Setting Up a Company in Serbia

Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe with access to major transport routes.
Free Trade Agreements: Serbia has trade agreements with the EU, EFTA, Turkey, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and China.
Attractive Tax Regime: One of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at 15%.
Affordable Setup and Operating Costs: Low costs for labor, rent, and administrative services.
Skilled Multilingual Workforce: High literacy rate and proficiency in English and other European languages.
Investment Incentives: Tax credits, grants, and benefits for foreign investors in key sectors.
Stable Economy: Consistent GDP growth and ongoing integration with EU standards.

Types of Companies in Serbia

Company Type	Description
Limited Liability Company (Društvo sa Ograničenom Odgovornošću – DOO)	The most common type for foreign investors; requires at least one shareholder and a minimum share capital of RSD 100 (less than 1 EUR).
Joint Stock Company (Akcionarsko Društvo – AD)	Suitable for larger ventures; minimum share capital RSD 3 million (approx. EUR 25,000).
Branch Office	A foreign company can establish a branch without creating a new legal entity.
Representative Office	For non-commercial operations such as market research or liaison activities.
Entrepreneur (Sole Proprietor)	For individuals conducting small-scale business activities.

Advantages of Serbia Company Formation for Non-Residents

Advantage	Details
100% Foreign Ownership	Full ownership allowed for foreign individuals or entities.
Ease of Setup	Simple incorporation procedures with minimal capital requirements.
Tax Benefits	Low corporate tax and multiple double taxation treaties.
Free Repatriation of Profits	Profits can be transferred abroad without restriction.
Skilled and Affordable Workforce	Competitive labor costs with strong technical expertise.
Access to EU Market	Through free trade agreements and proximity to EU borders.

Requirements for Company Registration in Serbia

To form a company in Serbia, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

Company Name – Must be unique and approved by the Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR).
Registered Office Address – A local Serbian address is mandatory.
Shareholders – Minimum one shareholder (individual or corporate).
Directors – At least one director (can be non-resident).
Share Capital – Minimum RSD 100 for a DOO.
Articles of Association – The company’s founding document, drafted in Serbian and notarized.
Bank Account – Required for capital deposit and operational transactions.
Tax Identification Number (PIB) – Issued by the Serbian Tax Administration.
VAT Registration (if applicable) – Required if annual turnover exceeds RSD 8 million (approx. EUR 68,000).
Business License (if required) – Depending on the industry or activity.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Serbia Company Formation

Step 1 – Choose the Company Type
Select the legal entity that best suits your business objectives (DOO, AD, branch, etc.).

Step 2 – Reserve the Company Name
Check and reserve the desired name with the Business Registers Agency (APR).

Step 3 – Draft the Articles of Association
Define the company’s business scope, ownership structure, and management rules.

Step 4 – Open a Temporary Bank Account
Deposit the minimum share capital (as low as RSD 100 for DOO).

Step 5 – Notarize the Documents
All incorporation documents must be notarized in Serbia.

Step 6 – Register the Company with APR
Submit all documents to the Serbian Business Registers Agency for approval.

Step 7 – Obtain Tax Identification Number (PIB)
Register the company with the Serbian Tax Authority.

Step 8 – Register for VAT (if applicable)
If your turnover or business model requires it, register for VAT.

Step 9 – Open a Permanent Bank Account
Once approved, open a corporate bank account for business operations.

Timeframe for Company Formation in Serbia

Stage	Activity	Estimated Duration
Name Reservation	Approval by APR	1–2 business days
Document Preparation	Drafting and notarization	2–4 business days
Company Registration	Filing and approval with APR	3–5 business days
Tax and VAT Registration	PIB and VAT issuance	2–4 business days

Total Estimated Time: 7–14 business days (1–2 weeks)

Serbia Corporate Tax System

Serbia offers one of the most competitive corporate tax systems in Europe, supported by incentives for reinvestment and innovation.

Key Tax Highlights

Corporate Income Tax (CIT): 15% (one of Europe’s lowest).
Dividend Tax: 15% (reduced or exempt under double taxation treaties).
VAT: Standard rate 20%; reduced rate 10%.
Withholding Tax: 20% (on dividends, interest, and royalties; reduced by treaties).
Social Contributions: Employer contributions ~17%; employee ~19.9%.
Incentives:
- Tax holidays for large-scale investments.
- R&D tax credits and exemptions.
- Free zones with customs and tax benefits.
- Employment incentives and grants for new jobs.

How We Can Help You

Our team of Serbia company formation specialists provides end-to-end assistance for international investors, ensuring full compliance and efficiency.

Our Services Include

Company structure and jurisdiction consulting
Name reservation and APR registration
Drafting and notarization of company documents
Bank account setup and capital deposit support
Tax and VAT registration
Accounting, payroll, and HR setup
Legal and corporate advisory
Registered office and virtual address services
Ongoing compliance and management support

Start Your Serbia Company Formation Today

With its low taxes, strategic European position, and business-friendly environment, Serbia is one of the best emerging destinations for global entrepreneurs.

Whether you’re expanding your international footprint or launching a new venture, our experts will guide you through every step of the Serbia company formation process — ensuring compliance, speed, and success.

Contact us today to begin your Serbia company formation and unlock your access to one of Europe’s most promising and cost-effective business destinations.

Ready to Register Your Company in Serbia?

Questions & Answers

FAQ: Taxation in Serbia

1. What is the Corporation Tax rate in Serbia?

The Corporation Tax rate in Serbia is 15%. This rate applies to the taxable profit of legal entities operating within the country. Additionally, small businesses with an annual income of less than 8 million RSD can opt for a reduced tax rate of 10%.

2. How are dividends taxed in Serbia?

Dividends paid to both resident and non-resident individuals and entities ar subject to a withholding tax of 15%. However, this rate can often be reduced if a double taxation treaty exists between Serbia and the recipient’s country.

3. What are the Income Tax rates in Serbia?

In Serbia, personal income tax is assessed at a flat rate of 10% on regular income. For certain types of income, like capital gains, a tax rate of 15% may apply. Additionally, a progressive tax system is in place for specific income brackets, ranging from 0% to 15%.

4. What is the VAT Tax in Serbia?

The standard VAT rate in Serbia is 20%. However, a reduced VAT rate of 10% applies to certain goods and services, such as basic food items and medical supplies. Businesses must register for VAT if their annual turnover exceeds 8 million RSD.

5. Are there any other significant taxes in Serbia?

Yes, Serbia has several other taxes, including property tax, inheritance tax, and local taxes. Property tax is calculated based on the value of the property and varies by municipality. Inheritance tax rates range from 1% to 2.5% based on the relationship to the deceased.

These concise answers provide a clear overview of the taxation landscape in Serbia, helping you understand essential tax obligations.

Learn more: Visit our Full Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page
or contact our tax and company formation team at [email protected]

FAQ: Company Registration in Serbia

What are the requirements for non-residents to form a company in Serbia?

Non-residents looking to form a company in Serbia must have a valid passport and a registered office address in Serbia. Additionally, they must provide identification documentation, such as a photo and proof of the source of funds. It’s also advisable to obtain a Serbian Tax Identification Number (TIN) and open a local bank account.

What types of companies can non-residents establish in Serbia?

Non-residents can establish several types of companies in Serbia, with the most common being a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and a Joint-Stock Company (JSC). An LLC is typically preferred due to its simpler structure and lower capital requirements. There are also options for sole proprietorships and branches of foreign companies.

What is the minimum share capital required for company formation in Serbia?

The minimum share capital required to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Serbia is 100 RSD (Serbian dinars), which is equivalent to approximately 1 EUR. For a Joint-Stock Company (JSC), the minimum share capital requirement is significantly higher, set at 3 million RSD (around 25,000 EUR).

How long does it take to register a company in Serbia?

The process of registering a company in Serbia can vary, but it generally takes between 5 to 10 business days. Once all necessary documents are prepared and submitted to the Serbian Business Registers Agency, they will review your application and issue a decision. Delays can occur if documents are incomplete or incorrectly submitted.

Do non-residents need a local partner to register a company in Serbia?

No, non-residents do not need a local partner to register a company in Serbia. Foreign individuals can fully own and manage their business without the requirement of a Serbian counterpart. This feature makes Serbia an attractive location for foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to enter the Balkan market.

Are there any tax benefits for companies established by non-residents in Serbia?

Yes, companies established by non-residents in Serbia may enjoy several tax benefits, including a corporate income tax rate of 15%, which is competitive in the region. Additionally, there are various incentives for foreign investors, such as exemptions from certain taxes and reduced rates in specific sectors or regions.