Serbia Study Visa – Application, Requirements, and Funding
If you are planning to study in Serbia, you will need to obtain a Serbia study visa. The process for obtaining a study visa is relatively straightforward. Still, ensuring you have all the required documents in order is vital.
Undoubtedly, Serbia has a well-developed education system that offers a variety of schooling options. Although Serbia is not a popular study destination compared to its neighboring countries, it is outstanding in providing exclusive education to its students.
This article will explore the requirements, criteria, and how to apply for a Serbian study visa.
About Serbia study visa
The Serbia study visa is a long visa type specific for individuals who want to earn a degree or take a short course in Serbia. Students who have been admitted into a recognized institution in Serbia receive this type of visa.
Serbia is an excellent place for international studies. The country has a rich history and culture and rests in a strategic location in Europe. And yes, Serbian universities offer a wide range of programs and courses in English, making it easy for international students to study there.
Eligibility criteria for Serbia study visa
Without a doubt, Serbia is one of the European countries that are not among the European Union, EEA, or Schengen member countries. Although, citizens of this union may enter Serbia without a visa. However, they will need a study visa to carry out a course of study in any of the institutions in Serbia.
Moreso, to apply for the visa, you must have reached an admission agreement with the institution you plan on carrying out your course study in Serbia. Therefore, it would be best to accompany it with an admission letter from your institution.
Requirements for the Serbia study visa
To stand a chance of studying at any of the outstanding institutions in Serbia, you must fulfill the requirement stated below:
#1. Valid passport
Your passport should be valid for at least three months after you leave Serbia. Also, it must have not less than two blank pages where you can fix your visa.
#2. Colored photos
The photos should be taken against a white background and measure 3.5 by 4.5 cm. Also, it must not take six months, with no ink creases or folding. Finally, remember not to staple the photo to your visa application form. Instead, get the glue to fasten it on the form.
#3. Completed application form
You can obtain the application form for the Serbia study visa online. Get it, accomplish it, print it, sign it, and get it ready for submission. The application form is an official document and must not be folded. Instead, you can quickly put it away in a document folder.
#4. A copy of the registration of your institution
This document proves that the institution you plan on earning a degree, carrying out research, or taking a short course in Serbia is registered and authentic. Failure to provide these documents is a risk to your application process.
#5. Evidence of sufficient fund
Frequently students gain scholarships to study in any of the registered institutions in Serbia. However, if you are going to finance your studies, you are to submit any of the following documents
- Traveler’s cheque; or
- Bank statement; or
- Letter of guarantee; or
- Credit cards.
Note that sufficient funds entail that the balance in your bank account is enough to cover the cost of living in Serbia. The cost of living in Serbia is approximately 50 Euro to 60 euros per day.
#6. Health insurance
This health coverage plan is needed as part of your documents to be submitted to the Serbian embassy. Usually, this amount is between EUR 20,000 and $23,515 and must be valid throughout your stay of study in Serbia.
#7. Vaccination certificate
Because of the current pandemic and communicable diseases around the globe, it will be profitable for your application to submit a document that satisfies that you have been vaccinated against communicable diseases.
#8. Proof of accommodation
The proof of accommodation for a Serbia study visa can be in the form of a hostel provided by the institution you are registered in Serbia. However, suppose you want to go for a private housing option. In that case, you must provide evidence of accommodation or bookings of the lodge.
Steps on Applying for a Serbia Study Visa
Getting the Serbia study visa is quite a haul, but we are making it easier and more viable. What you need to do to get the visa is provided below in a stepwise fashion. Keep reading!.
Step one: Gather all the application requirements
Preparing all the documents listed above is wise before visiting the Serbian embassy or consulate in your country for the visa. To succeed, gather all documents one after the other in separate files, name them, and put them together. This will ensure that all documents you need are complete.
Step two: Book an appointment with the consulate/embassy in your country
There are two ways to succeed at this. You can either book an appointment and submit your document personally or send it through the mail.
Suppose you live close to the consulate or embassy for Serbia. In that case, you may have to book an appointment and make the submission yourself. However, if you live far off, you should submit the document through mail along with a letter stating why you had to do so. In addition, make a proper list of the documents in your packet for adequate scanning.
Step three: Wait for the long stay visa
Without a doubt, it could take about 30 days to issue the long stay visa. However, it may take longer if you do not complete your documents and the embassy requests other supporting documentation. It is wise to apply for the visa 90 days before the day you plan your trip to be on the safer side.
Note that you will first be issued the long stay visa before you proceed to other registration in Serbia.
Step four: Travel to Serbia and register for your student visa
You can fly to Serbia once you have your long-stay visa with you. First, however, you must make registration with the police department within 24 hours of your arrival in Serbia. This department will be responsible for issuing the student visa for you.
Step five: Wait for your white card.
After fulfilling the visa requirements, the police station will issue you the white card. And yes, you will have to submit a copy of the card to the International Students Office of your university.
Step six: Apply for a temporary residence permit
Proceed to apply for the residence permit once you obtain the white card. You should do this within three months of arrival in the country. If you fail to do so, you may be flagged as illegal and deported to your country.
Step seven: Submit the application permission slip to your university
Once you have submitted your temporary residence permit requirements, you will get a confirmation slip. Provide a copy of the slip to the university to you are admitted.
Once this is fixed, you can submit a copy of the Passport page having the temporary residence label to your institution. Note that the permit is valid until two years, after which you would have to renew it about one month before it expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get a study visa for Serbia?
Study visas for Serbia can vary depending on your nationality and the type of study you wish to undertake. Generally, you will need to provide documentation proving that you have been accepted to a recognized educational institution in Serbia. You will also provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses. Additionally, you may be required to take a language proficiency test. For more information, contact the Embassy of Serbia in your country.
Is Serbia a Schengen country?
No, Serbia is not a Schengen country. The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their common borders.
Can I study in Serbia?
Yes, you can study in Serbia. The country has several universities, both private and public, that offer a variety of programs at different levels. Tuition fees vary depending on the institution and program but are generally affordable. The cost of living in Serbia is also relatively low.
Is Serbia good for education?
There are many good universities in Serbia, and the quality of education is high. Tuition is also relatively affordable, making Serbia a good option for students looking for quality education at a reasonable price.
Is University in Serbia free?
Yes, public university in Serbia is free for Serbian citizens. In addition to tuition-free attendance, the government also provides students with a monthly stipend.
Conclusion
Getting the Serbia study visa is an excellent move to studying in the several outstanding institutions in Serbia. There are bountiful opportunities to grow, and you will learn from one of the world’s academic experts.
