Arriving in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Entry

General Information

Entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina requires valid documents. These can include a passport or another internationally recognized travel document (ID card). Citizens of the EU and other countries exempt from visa requirements can enter without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry Requirements

Document Requirements

Every traveler must be able to present a valid passport or another recognized travel document. German citizens can enter with a passport, ID card, or temporary passport. Austrian and Swiss citizens can also enter with a passport or ID card.

At the time of your planned departure, travel documents must be valid for at least three more months, and a longer validity may be required upon entry.

Border Crossings

Entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina is only allowed at international border crossings. Here is an interactive map with all official border crossings and contact information.

Minors

Children under 14 may only enter with a parent/legal guardian or an accompanying person authorized by the parent/legal guardian.

Financial Requirements for Entry

You may need to prove that you have sufficient funds to finance your stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The minimum amount is set at 150 BAM (approx. 77 EUR) per day.

Visa Regulations and Residence Permits

The need for a visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of the visit, and the length of your stay. Visas can be issued for short stays (Visa C) or longer stays (Visa D), depending on the purpose of your stay and the duration.

Types of Visas

Depending on the purpose of travel, there are different types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, and long-term visas (Type D).

Tourist Visa

For short stays of up to 90 days.

Business Visa

For individuals entering for business purposes.

Long-Term Visa (Type D)

Required for long-term stays such as work, study, or family reunification.

Tourists must register their stay with the relevant authorities (either the Foreigners’ Service or a local police station) within 48 hours of arrival if it exceeds three days. The registration fee is 10 KM (approx. 5 EUR).

Requirements and Process

For most visas, an application must be submitted before entry at a diplomatic mission of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Detailed information on the application process can be found on the official website of the Bosnian immigration authority.

In exceptional cases, visas can be issued at the borders of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This includes transit visas (Visa A) for a one-day stay and short-term visas (Visa C) for stays of up to 15 days. These visas can be issued at certain international border crossings, including Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Tuzla, and Mostar airports, as well as key crossings such as Izačić, Bosanska Gradiška, Bosanski Brod, Gorica, and others. The border crossings are open 24/7.

Applying for a Residence Permit

Process

After arriving in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you must apply for a residence permit if you plan to stay longer than 90 days. This is necessary for those emigrating to Bosnia and Herzegovina. This applies to nationals who can enter visa-free. Others should secure a visa before entering.

Required Documents

Valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of residence, and depending on the visa type, additional specific documents.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Submit the application: Visit the local immigration authority within a few days of arrival.
2. Provide documents: Passport, proof of financial means, proof of residence, medical certificate.
3. Processing time: Processing can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.