Belgrade: Indian citizens now need a visa to visit Serbia. The move is part of making the country’s visa regulations similar to those of the European Union. The new rule will come into effect on January 1, 2023. The Serbian government believes that such decisions will help to prevent illegal immigration.
Currently, Indian citizens do not require a visa to visit Serbia. He had the right to stay in the country for 30 days a year. Indian nationals intending to enter Serbia on or following 1 January 2023 must first apply for a visa at the Embassy of Serbia in New Delhi or in their country of residence, with Serbia withdrawing the existing arrangement of visa-free entry for Indian passport holders.
But it should also be noted that holders of Indian passports with a valid Schengen, UK visa, or US visa or residence permit of these countries can enter the Republic of Serbia visa-free for up to 90 days. But such persons must possess a valid passport of the said visas or residence permits with a validity of six months.
The Western Balkan route, which includes Serbia, has registered the highest number of illegal border crossings since 2015, when the migrant crisis reached its peak. Apart from India, visa is also made mandatory for citizens of Guinea Bissau, Tunisia and Burundi.
English Summary : Serbia bars visa-free entry for Indians from January 1
