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Hire in Serbia

Updated on:
16 Jan, 2024
EOR in 
Serbia
Monthly
best value
Annually
Pay monthly at a discounted rate with a 12-month commitment
(Save upto 15%)
$
249
/month
(billed monthly)
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Employ contractors and employees in 160+ countries
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Employ contractors and employees in 160+ countries
EOR in 
Serbia
Offer banner
Monthly
$
299
/month
(billed annually)
Annually
Pay monthly at a discounted rate with a 12-month commitment
$
249
/month
(billed monthly)

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Hire in Serbia

The Serbian economy is service-based and is ranked 78th in 2020 in gross domestic product. The tertiary sector heavily dominates the Serbian economy. The unemployment rate in Serbia in 2020 was 12.72%, which showed an increase of 0.03 % from 2019. Serbia has one of the highest unemployment rates in the region. The prominent industries of Serbia include the automotive, energy industry, machinery, agriculture, and mining industry. Trade also plays a major role in the economy.

Other emerging industries include tourism, telecommunication, and IT industry, and the manufacturing industry. Its multicultural and welcoming society is perfect for young and qualified professionals and graduates. The education, science, and technology sector has shown considerable growth in the last year. The Serbian economy follows the principles of a free-market economy. The economic heart of the country is Belgrade, occupied with stock exchanges and banks.

Overview of Serbia

As of 2020, Serbia is the 75th largest economy in the world by nominal GDP (Gross Domestic Product). The service sector heavily dominates the economy with the lion's share of 67.9% and employs about 56% of its working population, followed by the industrial and agricultural sectors. The country has the best economy in Europe. The growth rate is very high compared to other European countries.

Total population – 6.94 million

GDP- US $53 billion (FY 20)

Economic Overview

As per the National Bureau of Statistics reports, the Serbian economy bounced back in 2021 after the pandemic enforced restrictions, and its growth rate is greater than the other European countries. The GDP of Serbia decreased by 0.98 % in 2020 compared to 2019, and it has reached a valuation of US $53 billion. The GDP is expected to grow by 4.9% in the coming years.

Market size

Even though the pandemic has hit hard in the country, affecting industries like tourism and agriculture, the recent growth has shown that it has become the best economy among the European countries. Financial, IT, and health sectors are the emerging sectors in the economy.

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A brief glimpse of the industries

  • The energy sector is a major contributor to the Serbian economy. This sector is run by the main producers of electricity who control the supplies for the whole country. The country has large coal reserves. It is a large exporter of electricity and importer of fuels. There are plenty of job opportunities available in this sector. 
  • Agriculture is another prominent industry of the Serbian economy. It has favorable natural conditions for cultivation. The country is a large supplier of frozen fruit in the European Union. Major agricultural products include maize, wheat, sunflower, plum, dairy, poultry, potato, and apple. 
  • Tourism is another major sector of the country's economy. The main attraction of tourists is the mountains and spas of the country. Several music festivals are also held in the country. Around 75,000 people are employed in this sector and have witnessed growth in recent years.

Cost of living in Serbia

Serbia is the 56th best country to live in the world. Belgrade, a city in Serbia, is one of the great places to live in southeastern Europe. The country is known for its delicious cuisine, culture, and nightlife. Serbia currently has the 123rd highest cost of living in the world.

Category Area of expense Estimated cost USD Range
Utilities Electricity, Water, Heating, Internet services, Prepaid mobile tariff $19.89 (17,777.54 Дин) US $ 118-273
Rental rates

Apartment (1 room) in city and outside city,


Apartment (2-3 rooms) In the city and outside the city.

$312.97 (30,926.41 Дин) (in city)
$210.06 (20,756.99 Дин) (outside city)

$570.26 (56,350 Дин) (in city)
$ 362.25 (35,796.11 Дин) (outside city)

US $178-506
The US $121-354

US $283-1055
US $ 202-607

Transportation Cost One way ticket local transport, Taxi tariff, Gasoline. $ 8.01 (791.46 Дин) US $ 7.00 -10.00
Food and Beverage Grocery, Vegetables, Meat and Poultry $ 13.82 (1366.03 Дин) US $12-17
Salaries and Financing

Average monthly net salary

$ 555.47 (54,894.6 Дин)

Cost of Renting

The cost of living on rent in Serbia depends on the locality as well as the features available. You can expect to spend around $312.97 (30,926.41 Дин), depending upon the area for a one bedroom apartment. The rent can increase or decrease based on personal preferences.

Some of the prominent sectors that will lead the hiring process in 2021 in Serbia are: -

S.No Top Industries looking to hire
1. Agriculture
2. Professional services and IT sector
3. Energy
4. Manufacturing
5. Teaching
6. Healthcare
7. Tourism
8. Creative
9. Export
10. Financial Service


Top skills in Serbia

Serbia has a free-market economy and is heavily dominated by the service sector. Consequently, it is keen on hiring skilled individuals and highly qualified professionals trained in various hard and soft skills. From high-level software developers to creative graphic designers, there are fantastic job opportunities available for all these skills.

Major skills and areas which have witnessed a recent growth rate

  • Computer Science/IT
  • Business
  • Healthcare
  • Teaching
  • Graphic Design (Website Design)
  • Language (Translator)

Top skills city-wise occupation-wise

As a country, Serbia has managed to promote various cities for industrial and economic development. In addition, Serbia is a beautiful country with delicious cuisine and nightlife and has got special work opportunities for many enthusiastic immigrants and expats.

Belgrade - It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. The city is the financial center and economic heart of Serbia. It consists of commercial banks and the Belgrade Stock Exchange. Also, it is one of the IT hubs in southeastern Europe. There are a lot of job opportunities in the IT sector.

Novi Sad - Novi Sad is one of the economic and cultural cities of Serbia. It is the most fertile region in Serbia. The main industries in the city include the financial and banking sector, insurance, agriculture, and energy sectors.

Hiring Cost

One of the most important aspects of the recruitment process in Serbia is the cost of hiring. There are various factors that need to be considered before making a hiring decision, such as: - 

  • Onboarding and training cost
  • Opportunity costs
  • Cost of conducting the interview
  • Time required

Salary structure for various roles

Here are the crucial details pertaining to the average salaries that professionals can expect in various roles in Serbia: -

Business Sector Average Annual Salary (RSD) Average Annual Salary (USD)
Education and Training 1,780,000 RSD $ 18,015
Wholesale Trade 1,840,000 RSD $ 18,623
Arts and Recreation Services 1,370,000 RSD $ 13,866
Administrative and Support Services 1,470,000 RSD $ 14,878
Retail Trade 1,840,000 RSD $ 18,623
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services 2,250,000 RSD $ 22,772
Transport, Postal, Warehousing 1,740,000 RSD $ 17,611
Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants 1,120,000 RSD $ 11,336
Health Care and Social Assistance 2,510,000 RSD $ 25,404
Mining 1,510,000 RSD $ 15,283
Rental, Hiring and Real Estate Services 1,910,000 RSD $ 19,331
Financial and Insurance Services 1,169,000 RSD $11,831
Information Media and Telecommunications 1,480,000 RSD $ 14,979
Construction 990,000 RSD $ 10,019
Manufacturing 1,150,000 RSD $ 11,639


Employment Laws in Serbia

Serbia enjoys a well-defined employment system with clearly stated federal as well as provincial laws. Some of the key aspects that govern the employment market in Serbia are minimum wages, work hours, overtime payment etc. The Serbian Labor Law governs the following aspects regarding the employment market: -

  • Minimum 36 work hours a week
  • Paid and unpaid leave
  • Termination of employment
  • Workplace surveillance
  • Anti-discrimination

Different regulations that regulate the employer-employee relationships in Serbia are based upon

  • Legislations
  • Contractual Agreements
  • Constitutional Law

Serbia Remote Hiring Trends 2024

Serbia ranks among the top ten countries worldwide for the number of freelancers. This trend alone – not expected to wane anytime soon – should highlight how dynamic and exciting this country's remote work world is.

Trending Industries in Serbia

In 2024, one of the most thriving sectors for employment in the country is the tech industry. This becomes apparent after a quick browse on Belgrade Gets Digital, a recently launched platform to attract digital nomads to Serbia. The Belgrade-based website is rapidly becoming a hub for savvy Serbian and foreign IT freelancers open to new work opportunities.

Unsurprisingly, the most in-demand job titles in the country include:

  • JavaScript developer
  • Java developer
  • IT help desk
  • Net developer
  • PHP developer

Top Companies in Serbia

The top five companies (based on anonymous employee reviews) in Serbia in 2022 are:

  • Microsoft
  • NCR
  • EY
  • Foundever
  • Deloitte
  • PWC

How Can Skuad Help You with Hiring in Serbia?

Organizing a hiring process in Serbia is an extremely cumbersome task involving various rules and regulations. Factors like cost of living, cost of hiring, and training are some of the factors that have an impact on the decision. Instead of investing your time and resources in this complicated process, conduct hassle-free recruitments with Skuad unified employment solution. Connect with Skuad to know more.

FAQs

How to Hire Employees in Serbia?

In Serbia, employment can be managed either by establishing a local entity or through an Employer of Record (EOR). The EOR option allows you to hire talent in Serbia without setting up a local presence, handling legal and HR responsibilities. Whether you choose direct hiring or an EOR, ensure compliance with Serbia employment laws, focusing on fair contract terms and workplace regulations. This strategic approach is key for how to hire employees in Serbia effectively.

What is the Employment Law in Serbia?

Employment law in Serbia mandates a maximum 40-hour work week, with overtime pay regulations. Employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 days annual leave, plus public holidays. Laws also cover maternity and sick leave provisions. Employers must adhere to these standards, including fair termination practices and mandatory social contributions. Understanding these aspects is vital for those exploring how to hire in Serbia, ensuring compliance and fair employment practices.

Can a Foreign Company Directly Hire Employees in Serbia?

Foreign companies have two main options for hiring in Serbia: establishing a local entity or partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR). Setting up a local entity offers more control but requires understanding Serbia's employment and corporate laws. An EOR simplifies the process, managing legal and HR aspects of Serbia employment.

limited-offer-banner
EOR in 
Serbia
Monthly
best value
Annually
Pay monthly at a discounted rate with a 12-month commitment
(Save upto 15%)
$
249
/month
(billed annually)
Start Hiring Now

Employ contractors and employees in 160+ countries

Get started
limited-offer-banner
EOR in 
Serbia
Monthly
$
299
/month
(billed annually)
Annually
Pay monthly at a discounted rate with a 12-month commitment
$
249
/month
(billed monthly)

Employ contractors and employees in 160+ countries

Table of Content

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