A bank account in Serbia is essential for expats: for rent payments, salary receipts, and everyday expenses. The process is manageable, but has its pitfalls.
Which Bank?
For expats I generally recommend Raiffeisen Bank Serbia or UniCredit Bank. Both have English-speaking staff in branches and good online banking apps. Local banks like Erste or Banca Intesa are cheaper but communication can be more demanding.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (NOT national ID card)
- Tax number (PIB): must be obtained beforehand
- Proof of address (rental contract or residence certificate)
- At some banks: proof of income source
Common Pitfalls
Many expats arrive without a PIB and are turned away. Or they bring a national ID instead of a passport. Schedule your appointment after receiving your PIB, it usually works on the first attempt.
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