Register a business in Serbia
In Serbia’s dynamic business environment, an increasing number of individuals are recognizing the potential of entrepreneurship and taking the first step toward launching their own company. From young professionals and experienced specialists seeking independence, to foreign investors drawn to Serbia’s growing economy—starting a business has become a popular and promising path.
Despite recent efforts to streamline administrative procedures, the process of company formation in Serbia can still be complex, especially for those unfamiliar with local legal requirements, bureaucracy, and accounting obligations. One of the main issues new entrepreneurs face is the lack of clear and centralized information:
- What documents are required?
- How long does the process take?
- What are the registration costs?
- Which legal form (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.) is best?
- What are the legal obligations post-registration?
Because of these uncertainties, many individuals waste time and resources—or even give up—while navigating a process that could be much more efficient with proper legal support.
Business Growth and Demand for New Companies in Serbia
According to the Serbian Business Registers Agency (BRA), more than 40,000 new legal entities are established annually, and the number of registered entrepreneurs and limited liability companies (LLCs) is steadily growing. This upward trend confirms both the high demand and growing interest in starting a business in Serbia, but it also highlights the need for better support in both the formation and development stages.
Start a company in Serbia is an exciting milestone, but understanding the Serbian legal framework is key to avoiding costly mistakes. Many of our clients reach out to us unsure of which business entity to register, how to prepare founding documents, and how long the process will take.
Our corporate law attorneys are here to support you through every step of the open a business in Serbia, from the moment you decide to start your business until you’re fully operational.
This guide will walk you through the registration process step-by-step, explain the differences between legal forms, and provide practical tips to help you accelerate your registration.
Related Article: What Does an Employment Contract Look Like in Serbia?
How to Register a Company in Serbia?
Whether you plan to start as a sole proprietor (entrepreneur), limited liability company (LLC), or joint-stock company, register a private business in Serbia, the formation process generally includes:
- Choosing the appropriate legal form (LLC, entrepreneur, general partnership, etc.)
- Verifying and reserving the business name
- Preparing the founding act and additional documentation
- Notarizing the founding act
- Optional: Signing a shareholder agreement
- Registering the company with the Serbian Business Registers Agency (BRA)
Legal Forms of Business Entities in Serbia
Before registration, it’s essential to decide on the most suitable legal structure for your business. The Serbian Law on Business Entities recognizes several legal forms:
- General Partnership
- Limited Partnership
- Limited Liability Company
- Joint-stock Company
- Sole Proprietorship – Register as a entrepreneur in Serbia
Both domestic and foreign individuals or legal entities can establish a business in Serbia.
Business Name Reservation in Serbia
Before submitting your registration application, we recommend becoming familiar with the rules regarding company names. Choosing a name that violates the rules may result in rejection of your application and additional costs. Our law office offers free consultations to help you understand the naming rules and how to reserve a business name properly.
Required Documentation for Company Formation in Serbia
Open a company in Serbia, the type of documentation depends on your chosen legal form. For example:
- The Founding Act is the key document of any company and may take the form of a decision (for single founders) or contract (for multiple founders).
- Signatures must be notarized by a certified notary public.
- LLCs and partnerships include specific provisions on management and ownership in the Founding Act.
- Joint-stock companies are additionally required to prepare a Statute.
Additional documents may be required depending on your structure. Our legal team will ensure all required documentation is accurately prepared.
Company Registration with the Business Registers Agency Serbia (BRA)
Since May 2023, Serbia company registration applications must be submitted electronically through the BRA’s online platform, except for specific legal transformations or entrepreneurs converting into business entities.
Incorporation LLC in Serbia
The establishment of a limited liability company (LLC) is the most common choice for investors and business owners who wish to start a company with clearly defined rights and obligations. The process includes the preparation of the founding act, payment of the share capital (the statutory minimum being RSD 100), registration with the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA), and tax registration. Our law office provides full legal support throughout this process – from legal consultation and preparation of the necessary documentation to the final registration of the company.
Company formation Serbia doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With timely preparation and professional legal assistance, you can launch your business smoothly and legally compliant.
Our law office provides comprehensive support how to start a firm in Serbia:
- Legal form selection
- Preparation of all necessary documentation
- Complete registration with the BRA
Contact us today for a consultation. Let’s find the best legal solution tailored to your business needs. Legal support at the right moment makes all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to register a company in Serbia?
- Registration fees range from 5,000 to 10,000 RSD, depending on the legal form. Notary fees are additional. Our law office charges according to the official attorney tariff.
Can I register a company on my own?
- Yes, but mistakes during the process are common and can lead to unnecessary delays and higher costs. Many clients turn to us to ensure their business is built on solid legal foundations from day one.
How long does registration take?
- The BRA typically issues a decision within 5 business days after receiving a complete application. Preparing documents in advance can speed up the process significantly.
Which legal form is best for my business?
- It depends on your business goals, tax obligations, and risk exposure. The most common legal forms in Serbia are LLC (doo) and sole proprietorship (entrepreneur).
