The demand for foreign labor in Serbia is growing, particularly in construction, hospitality, transportation, retail, delivery and industry. Currently, over 50,000 foreign workers are employed in Serbia, with numbers steadily rising, according to Jelena Jevtović from the Serbian Employers’ Union.
Most foreign workers come from Russia, China, Turkey, Nepal, Bangladesh, India, and Cuba. Serbia faces labor shortages because many locals have moved abroad, and younger generations show limited interest in certain professions. Both low-skilled workers and highly educated specialists are needed, including masons, tilers, construction engineers, and professionals in other sectors.
Recent amendments to the Foreign Employment Law have simplified the hiring process. Applications are now fully electronic, and workers receive a unified residence and work permit within a month, valid for up to three years. Foreign employees can now also change employers, with rights equal to domestic workers.
Integration challenges include language barriers and cultural differences, and most foreign workers intend to stay temporarily for several months or years. Despite occasional prejudice, Jevtović emphasized that foreign workers are a reality Serbia must adapt to.
A finalized list of professions in shortage has been sent to the government to facilitate foreign employment, with adoption expected soon.
