Relocating to Serbia is not just a personal journey – it’s a legal and strategic process. 

For many foreigners already living in Serbia, bringing their family members is the natural next step. However, this requires careful coordination, legal expertise, and full compliance with Serbian immigration law.

At Anđelković Law, we specialize in guiding foreign clients through the family reunification process, ensuring a smooth, compliant, and stress-free experience.

Who can apply for family reunification?

Foreign citizens who already possess temporary or permanent residence in Serbia (whether based on employment, company ownership, property ownership, or studies) have the right to family reunification, i.e., to invite members of their immediate family to join them. 

This includes:

• Spouses
• Minor children (biological, adopted, or stepchildren)

Each case is unique, and immigration officials carefully assess the documentation and overall structure of the application. Our role is to make sure everything is legally sound and strategically prepared.

If you’re not yet familiar with the Serbian residence process, read our guide on how to get a residence permit in Serbia.

What kind of documentation is needed for family reunification?

Applications for family immigration require the submission of personal documents, proof of relationship (such as birth and marriage certificates), valid passports, and evidence of the inviting family member’s legal status in Serbia.

Birth and marriage certificates, along with certain notarial statements (such as a parent’s consent when only one parent is present at the time of application), must be translated into Serbian by a certified court translator. 

No international legalisation or apostille is required.

Health insurance coverage is also mandatory. Children can be insured either individually or under a parent’s existing insurance policy.

We ensure that every document meets the legal requirements and is presented in a way that avoids unnecessary delays or rejections.

Accommodation requirements for family members

The foreigner inviting family members must provide proof that their family will be legally and adequately housed in Serbia. 

If the accommodation is a rented apartment, we advise one of the following two options:

1. A written consent from the landlord, allowing family members to register their residence at that address.
2. An annex to the rental agreement that adds the family members as additional tenants. This is often the simpler and more formalized approach.

We assist our clients in choosing and preparing the appropriate method based on their lease, location, and timeline.

How long does the process of family reunification take?

In most cases, document preparation takes 5 to 10 days, depending on the applicant’s location and access to required certificates. Once the application is submitted, the approval process typically takes a few weeks.

From start to finish, you can expect the entire family reunification process to take between 5 and 8 weeks, assuming all documentation is correct and complete. We manage deadlines, communicate with authorities, and update our clients at every step.

Why legal assistance matters

The family reunification process is not just administrative -it’s legal. 

Navigating deadlines, Serbian-language documentation, notarized statements, insurance policies, and other requirements can quickly become overwhelming for anyone unfamiliar with the system.

At Anđelković Law, we go beyond form-filling. Our team:

• Personally oversees each case with a designated immigration lawyer
• Reviews all documents for compliance with Serbian immigration law
• Coordinates submission appointments and communication with local authorities
• Advises on special situations such as shared custody, relocation timing, or combining legal bases

Many clients contact us only after encountering problems with incorrectly submitted family applications. Working with a skilled legal team from the start prevents setbacks, protects your legal status, and offers peace of mind.

Already own property in Serbia?

If you’re a foreigner residing in Serbia based on property ownership, you’re also eligible to invite family members. 

If you want to Learn more about your rights as a property-owning resident or if you are aiming to buy property in Serbia, read more in our article: Buying property in Serbia as a foreigner.

Start your family’s new chapter with confidence

Building a life in Serbia should be a secure and joyful experience for you and your family. 

Whether you’re bringing a spouse, children, or both, we provide full-service legal support so that your family immigration process is efficient, compliant, and stress-free.

Contact us today to begin your family reunification plan in Serbia, and take the next step toward a stable life together – legally and confidently.

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