Bosnia and Herzegovina: Where your new chapter begins.
The labor market in Bosnia and Herzegovina is characterized by a high unemployment rate, but there are growing opportunities in sectors such as information technology, engineering, and tourism.
Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a supportive environment for starting a business, particularly in sectors such as technology and exports.
First, you need to find a job or receive a work invitation. Then, your employer applies for a work permit for you at the employment office. You may only enter Bosnia and Herzegovina after the work permit has been issued. Once granted, you can apply for a residence permit based on this permit. This can be done outside Bosnia and Herzegovina through a diplomatic consular mission or directly within the country at the appropriate authority. Note: The initial application for temporary residence must typically be submitted in person, unless you entered with a D-visa or come from a visa-free country.
You may only start working after you have been granted both a work permit and a temporary residence permit. The work permit only allows you to work in the specific job or activity for which it was issued. Temporary residence is granted for the duration of your work permit’s validity plus 30 days, but no longer than one year.
Certain categories of foreigners may work in Bosnia and Herzegovina without a work permit under specific conditions. These include key personnel, business founders, university professors, scientists, and experts or teachers from foreign cultural and educational institutions.
Government officials, both civilian and military, members of international scientific missions, representatives of registered religious communities, and accredited foreign correspondents or media reporters can also work without a special work permit.
Additionally, this applies to artists, technical staff, participants in sports and chess events, individuals undergoing professional training, and those involved in major projects, trade fairs, circuses, amusement parks, or voluntary work in humanitarian organizations.
A fee of 100.00 KM is required for the approval or renewal of temporary residence. The necessary documents must be submitted in original or certified copy form. Documents in a foreign language require a translation into one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s official languages.