Serbia Plans to Introduce Visas for Russians and Belarusians by 2026 as Part of EU Integration

Serbia, striving for membership in the European Union (EU), has begun to align its visa policy with the requirements of the Schengen Area. This may lead to the introduction of a visa regime for citizens of Belarus and Russia by the end of 2026. This is reported by the internet portal Schengen News. We will explain what is happening, how it will affect travelers, and what to expect in the coming years.

Why is Serbia changing its visa policy?

Serbia is actively preparing to join the EU, and one of the key conditions is the harmonization of visa legislation with European standards. In October 2024, the country's government adopted the "Growth Plan for the Western Balkans" — a program developed by the European Union for regional integration. According to this plan, by the end of 2026, Serbia must introduce visas for citizens of several countries with which the EU has a visa regime. The list includes:

• Belarus;
• Russia;
• Turkey;
• China and other states.

The process has already begun: Serbia has introduced visas for citizens of Qatar, Mongolia, Oman, and Kuwait. This demonstrates Belgrade's determination to follow EU requirements to accelerate negotiations on joining the union.

"Harmonization of visa policy is not only a technical step but also part of measures to combat illegal migration and cross-border crime," the Serbian Foreign Ministry stated on March 30, 2025.

What about visas for Belarusians and Russians?

Currently, the situation for citizens of Belarus and Russia differs:

• Belarus: Serbian authorities have not made official statements about maintaining a visa-free regime for Belarusians. This may mean that the introduction of visas for citizens of the Republic of Belarus is more likely as part of harmonization with the EU.
• Russia: Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin emphasized in October 2024 that the country does not plan to change its visa policy toward Russians. Currently, Russian citizens can enter Serbia without a visa for up to 30 days. However, this statement contrasts with the general course toward closer ties with the EU, which raises questions about Belgrade's long-term plans.

Experts believe that the final decision on Russia may be postponed until 2026. Political scientist Milan Lazovich from the Russian Council on International Affairs noted in an interview with Lenta.ru:

"Belgrade is acting cautiously, trying to maintain friendly relations with Moscow. In the next year or two, radical changes should not be expected, but EU pressure may outweigh."

Serbia as a "window to Europe" for Russians

Serbia remains the only European country that has maintained direct air connections with Russia. Flights operate from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, and Sochi. From Belgrade, Russians can inexpensively travel to neighboring countries — Montenegro, Albania, or Bosnia, where simplified entry rules apply. However, the introduction of visas could affect this route. Although direct flights to Belgrade are convenient, their cost is high: a round-trip ticket from Moscow will cost more than 100,000 rubles. In comparison, transit flights through Turkey, Armenia, or Georgia are often cheaper, even considering layovers.

"The introduction of visas is unlikely to significantly impact transit trips of Russians to Europe through Serbia due to the costliness of the route. But the tourist flow to Serbia itself may decrease," believes political scientist Artem Kosorukov.

Serbia's geopolitical choice

Serbia finds itself at a crossroads between historical ties with Russia and aspirations for European integration. Introducing visas for Russians and Belarusians is not only a bureaucratic step but also a symbolic gesture that could cool relations with Moscow. Russia traditionally supports Serbia on the Kosovo issue, which makes this choice particularly difficult. Political scientist Kosorukov adds:

"The chances of introducing visas for Russians by 2026 are high, but not absolute. It all depends on how ready Belgrade is to sacrifice political capital for the sake of the EU."

At the same time, the Serbian Foreign Ministry emphasizes that joining the European Union remains a strategic priority, and the country intends to complete all reforms by the end of 2026.

What should travelers do?

For citizens of Russia and Belarus planning trips to Serbia, the situation remains uncertain. While the visa-free regime is still in effect, changes may be introduced at any moment after 2025. We recommend:

1. Monitor the news: Official statements from the Serbian Foreign Ministry and updates on the embassy website will help you stay informed.
2. Plan ahead: If visas are introduced, the process of obtaining them may take time.
3. Consider alternatives: For trips to Europe through other countries (such as Turkey or Armenia), visas are not yet required.

Conclusion: wait or prepare?

Serbia is moving toward the EU, and the introduction of a visa regime for Belarusians seems almost inevitable, while for Russians, the question remains open. Belgrade is balancing between geopolitical interests, but the pressure from the European Union may prevail. Travelers should closely monitor developments to avoid being caught off guard.