Serbia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 192 for police. 
• Dial 194 for ambulance. 
• Dial 193 for fire. 
• Dial 0800 222 003 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.  
• Dial 1987 for reliable roadside assistance to reach the Auto-Moto Association of Serbia (AMSS).  

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools 
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Crime

Violent crime in Serbia is often connected to organized crime and violence by fans at major sports events.

• Organized crime-related attacks involving incendiary devices are happening more often, even at popular businesses, homes, and near cars parked on the streets.  Many of these activities happen at night and when buildings are empty, but some attacks happen during the day as well.
• Tourists and visitors should stay aware of their surroundings, as in any big city.
• Pickpocketing and theft are the most common crimes. 
• Tourists should watch taxi meters and prices. Some taxi drivers may try to scam foreigners and charge them more money.

Anti-U.S. sentiment

Serbians can be welcoming to visitors, but anti-U.S. sentiment is common. It can be more common around certain anniversaries and some national holidays, such as:

• February 17 (anniversary of Kosovo’s 2008 declaration of independence)
• March 24 and June 10 (The 1999 NATO air campaign against Yugoslavia, in response to events in Kosovo)
• June 28 (St. Vitus’s Day or Vidovdan)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common and have been occurring more often and getting larger since 2024. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable and are often held without official permits. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Maintain caution near demonstrations. 
• There is often a heavier than usual police presence near demonstrations.
• Traffic may slow or stop even after the demonstration ends.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Unexploded landmines and ordnance 

Unexploded landmines and bombs from past wars may still be in rural areas and possibly in cities. They are most likely near the border with Kosovo in southern Serbia.

• If you go hiking, stay on well-marked paths that people use often.
• If you find an unexploded bomb or landmine, stop right away. Do not touch it, even if it looks old, rusty, or harmless.
• Back away safely and slowly. Walk back exactly the way you came to avoid setting off other hidden bombs.
• Mark the area from a safe distance with an item such as clothing, a hat, or a stick so authorities can find it later.
• Tell local police what you found and warn others to stay away from the area.
• Do not use electronics near unexploded bombs or landmines.

Violence at sporting events

Violence can happen before, during, and after sporting events.

• Police and fans have fought near sports stadiums. These stadiums are often in neighborhoods where people live.
• Games between certain teams, like Partizan and Red Star, can be dangerous. Violence has happened at past games.
• U.S. citizens have not generally been targeted. However, in a few cases, non-Serbians have been hurt by sports-related violence.
• U.S. government employees are generally advised to avoid the vicinity of high-profile sporting events.

Safety at night clubs

As a safety precaution, “Mr. Stefan Braun” night club is off-limits for U.S. embassy personnel due to xenophobic violence.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  Financial and Internet romance scams are present in Serbia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or dating apps.

Common scams in Serbia include: 

• Taxi overcharging: Unlicensed or unmetered taxi drivers frequently target tourists. This is common at the airport, train stations, or popular nightlife spots. They demand expensive flat rates instead of using the meter.
• Romance and online dating: Scammers form online relationships and then request money for emergencies or flights.
• Money transfers: Requests to wire money via Western Union or similar services to help a "friend" or "romantic partner" in distress.
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized: Fraudsters impersonating friends or loved ones claiming they have been arrested or injured abroad and need immediate funds.
• Work permits and job offers: Fraudulent online job listings designed to steal personal information or get "processing fees."

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 192.  Not all police officers speak English.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.
• There are numerous services assisting victims of crime in Serbia.  Contact details can be found on the interactive map.  

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence may contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.

Drones 

The use of drones is strictly regulated. 

• You must obtain prior authorization from the Serbian Ministry of Defense and the Civil Aviation Directorate (CAD) before bringing a drone into Serbia as a foreigner. 
• Operating a drone or conducting aerial photography without these specific permits is illegal. 
• Flying near government buildings, airports, or military facilities can result in the immediate confiscation of your equipment and severe fines. 
• For detailed information on regulation of drones, visit the website of the Serbian Civil Aviation Directorate. 

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
• Staff may not be trained or certified. 
• If you get injured, you may need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
• First responders may not be able to reach remote areas in case of emergencies. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel 

Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Rafting

River conditions can be unpredictable and highly dangerous. Spring snowmelt from April to June can cause fast-moving, freezing water and flash floods. This makes even popular rafting spots dangerous.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time, even for non-violent offenses. 
• If you enter Serbia with more than 10,000 euro in cash—or equivalent in other currencies—you must declare it to customs. If you fail to do so, Serbian customs may confiscate your money or levy heavy fines. Please review our customs information for additional details.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Serbia, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Report

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Serbia.  

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Serbia prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, and mental disabilities. The law is not consistently enforced.

• The most common places with accessible facilities are newly constructed buildings, modern shopping malls, and some recently updated tourist attractions. These are found in newly developed areas, Belgrade. 
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure. 
• Older buildings often lack elevators, and sidewalks are frequently obstructed by high curbs, uneven pavements (including cobblestones), or parked cars.
• General public sentiment around disability is mostly respectful and hospitable, but practical awareness is lower than in the United States. 
• The historical infrastructure rarely accommodates physical disabilities. Locals are not always used to seeing travelers with mobility issues. However, if you have physical barriers, people are generally willing to help when asked.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers  

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Serbia Traveler Information 
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 194 for emergency medical services and ambulances
• Dial 1987 for reliable roadside assistance to reach the Auto-Moto Association of Serbia (AMSS)
• Dial 192 for police
• Dial 193 for fire

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are generally available, but response times may be poor.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Serbia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Credit card payment is generally available in major hospitals and clinics. 
• Cash may be necessary in smaller rural clinics and pharmacies. 
• Private clinics require payment immediately following your consultation or treatment.  While public hospitals will provide immediate life-saving emergency care by law, they will demand full payment before discharge.  Proof of comprehensive travel medical insurance or an upfront deposit is often required for hospital admission.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments.  The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider.  Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Healthcare facilities 

Adequate private health facilities are available in Belgrade and other major cities. It is much harder to find good health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics and hospitals often suffer from underfunding and may lack the resources, modern equipment, and comforts routinely found in U.S. facilities.
• Hospitals and doctors generally require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff in public hospitals and rural clinics may speak little or no English. However, doctors and staff are much more likely to speak English in major private clinics in Belgrade.
• Generally, in public hospitals, only minimal nursing staff are available overnight in non-emergency wards. If admitted to a public facility, consider having family stay the night with the patient.
• Patients must cover all costs for private ambulance transfers to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services in English are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry.  Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.

• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Serbia. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• In case of malpractice, you may pursue legal remedies using local attorneys.

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the Medicines and Medical Devices Agency of Serbia or the Serbian Customs Administration to ensure the medication is legal in Serbia.
• Serbian customs laws strictly limit the amount of medication you can bring into the country.  You may bring up to a 15-day supply of medication for personal use without special documentation.  If you need a larger supply of up to six months, you must declare it at customs and present a formal doctor's report.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad.  Serbia has strictly regulated pharmacies (apoteka). Medications are generally safe and of high quality when you purchase them there.  
• Counterfeit medication is not a common issue in official Serbian pharmacies, but you should never buy medication from open-air markets or unlicensed online vendors. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Serbia strictly regulates the importation of medications containing psychotropic substances. This includes Adderall, Ritalin, Xanax, or strong opioid painkillers. Travelers must carry a valid doctor's prescription stating the diagnosis and the need for the drug. You may only bring a quantity enough to last your immediate trip.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 
• The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine 

Just as elsewhere in the world, homeopathy, herbal remedies, and other non-traditional treatments are practiced in Serbia. These are promoted as natural alternatives to traditional medicine. Exercise caution and make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

Surrogacy is strictly illegal for foreigners and citizens in Serbia.  Any form of surrogacy, commercial or altruistic, is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment.

• If you are considering traveling to Serbia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

Water quality and food safety 

• Tap water in Belgrade is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. 
• The use of bottled or purified water is encouraged in areas outside of Belgrade.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Always ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• Food and dairy products purchased in public groceries are usually of good quality. 
• Serbia has a well-operated and internationally recognized Veterinary Health Services that inspect cattle and test them for tuberculosis, brucellosis, and other diseases. 
• Shelf-stable milk is safe to drink.  
• Commercially manufactured dairy products are safe to eat. 
• Milk and cheese products from small family operations and sold from stands or markets vary in quality
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air quality is poor during winter months.  Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Serbia. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Main toll highways are modern and generally well-maintained. Secondary roads are often narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. 

• Driving at night can be dangerous, especially in rural areas. This is due to poorly lit roads, thick fog in river valleys, and slow-moving, unlit tractors or stray livestock.
• There are sufficient traffic signs on major highways, but signs may be missing or hard to see on rural routes.  
• Serbia has mandatory annual vehicle inspections. However, you may still share the road with many older, poorly maintained vehicles and overloaded trucks.  
• Aggressive driving, tailgating, and illegal passing are common safety risks.
• Emergency services are generally responsive. However, response times can be longer in remote mountainous areas.  

Traffic laws  

The law does not strictly require an International Driver’s License (IDP). However, it can be helpful to have one.  You cannot get an IDP locally. You may get it in the United States, typically through AAA, before you travel.

If you have a car accident

• If you are in a crash, do not move your vehicle, even if it is blocking traffic, unless leaving it could cause immediate danger to your life.  
• You must dial 192 for the police. Wait for them to arrive and get an official police damage report.  
• You will need this document to file any insurance claims and to drive a damaged vehicle across the border out of Serbia.

Required documents

• You must carry your passport, U.S. driver's license, and vehicle registration or insurance documents at all times while driving. 
• If you have an International Drivers Permit (IDP), it is recommended to carry it with you 
• Police conduct frequent, random traffic stops. 
• Some traffic police may still suggest or request bribes. You should politely decline to pay cash on the spot. Instead, ask the officer to issue an official, written traffic citation. You can legally pay later at a local bank or post office.

Driving rules

•  Your vehicle's headlights must be turned on 24 hours a day, year-round. 
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers in front and back seats.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal without a hands-free system.
• Winter or all-season tires are mandatory from November through March. 

Drunk driving laws

• Serbia has strict drunk driving laws.  
• The legal blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.02%.  Police often set up unannounced breathalyzer checkpoints, especially on weekends and holidays.  
• Violating this limit results in immediate arrest, heavy fines, and potential imprisonment. 

Taxis and ride-shares

Local ride-share apps exist.  They are widely used, generally safe, and predictable because they provide upfront pricing and GPS tracking.

• Legitimate taxis are available and safe in major cities. But taxi scams and overcharging are very common, particularly targeting foreigners. 
• Unlicensed or "wild" taxis work around tourist hotspots, train and bus stations, and popular nightlife districts. 
• Never accept rides from drivers soliciting passengers inside the terminal at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. Always go to the official "Taxi Info" kiosk located in the baggage claim area. You will get a fixed-price taxi voucher from the machine before exiting the terminal. You can also choose to use a trusted app to order a ride.

Public and commercial transportation 

Belgrade and some other large cities in Serbia have public transportation networks. 

• Buses are often crowded. Some lines and vehicles are poorly maintained. 
• Intercity bus and train services are available for many locations in Serbia.
• Visit the website of Serbia’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Serbia’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Flooding

• Floodings are the most frequent natural disaster in Serbia.
• Flooding happens in the spring from April to June due to heavy rainfall and mountain snowmelt.
• Major river basins, including the Danube, Sava, and Morava, may swell. This can wash out roads, cause landslides, and severely disrupt transportation and local infrastructure.

Earthquakes

• Serbia is in a seismically active region, particularly in the central and southern areas (such as Kraljevo).
• Earthquakes can happen year-round.
• While most are minor, moderate tremors can cause structural damage.

Severe winter weather

• Occurs from December to February.
• Heavy snowfall and blizzards are common, particularly in the mountainous regions of western and southern Serbia.
• These storms can cause sudden road closures, dangerous driving conditions, and occasional power outages in rural areas.

Extreme heat and wildfires

• During the peak summer months of July and August, Serbia experiences extreme heatwaves.
• The dry, hot conditions increase the risk of forest and brush fires.
• Wildfires are common in rural and densely forested national parks. They may lead to road closures and poor air quality.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes and registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates