Residence permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Temporary residence lets a foreigner live in Bosnia for a specific purpose — work, business, family or studies. Here is who qualifies, what you need and how a company fits in.
Grounds for temporary residence
You always apply for residence on a ground set out in Article 48 of the Law on Foreigners of BiH. These are the most common for our clients.
| Ground | Who it is for | What you need first |
|---|---|---|
| Work | Employees and directors working in Bosnia | Work permit issued for the employer |
| Company owners | Owners who work for their Bosnian company in Bosnia | Registered company and a work permit (residence on the ground of work) |
| Family reunification | Spouses and children of residents | Family member’s valid residence |
| Property ownership | Exceptionally, owners of real estate with an effective link to BiH | Proof of ownership and of the link to BiH |
| Studies | Students at Bosnian universities | Enrolment confirmation |
Documents you usually need
Requirements depend on the ground. We send you a personal checklist after the first call.
- Valid passport
- Proof of the purpose of stay — work permit, company ownership, family relationship, studies
- Proof of accommodation in Bosnia (rental contract or ownership)
- Proof of sufficient means of support
- Health insurance valid in Bosnia
- Criminal record certificate from your country, apostilled and translated
Residence questions
Residence is decided by the Service for Foreigners’ Affairs. We prepare and coordinate the application; we never guarantee the outcome.
Can I get residence in Bosnia by opening a company?
A company alone is not enough. Residence is granted for a purpose — most often work. If you own a Bosnian company and work for it in Bosnia as director, the company applies for your work permit and you apply for temporary residence for work.
Is a “resident visa” the same as a residence permit?
People often use the terms interchangeably. A visa is for entering Bosnia; temporary residence is the permit to stay longer. Citizens of countries that need a visa first enter with a visa, then apply for temporary residence.
How long is temporary residence valid?
Up to one year (Article 48(3), Law on Foreigners). It can be extended, but only on the same ground on which it was granted.
When can I get permanent residence?
After at least five years of continuous temporary residence immediately before the application, with the other conditions met (Article 79, Law on Foreigners).
Can my family come with me?
Yes, spouses and minor children can apply for temporary residence for family reunification once your residence is granted.
Planning to live in Bosnia?
Tell us your situation. We explain the route to residence and the full cost in writing.