Starting your own business in Serbia is significantly easier today thanks to the digitalization of procedures. Sole proprietorship registration can now be done entirely online, without visiting any government counters—especially important for young people in IT and service sectors. Below is a guide with all the key steps.
1. Obtain an Electronic Certificate
An electronic certificate is a prerequisite for submitting documentation and for electronic signing. You have two options:
Free Certificate from the Ministry of the Interior (MUP)
→ Apply at your nearest police station with your ID card.
→ The process takes a few days.
→ Instructions are available on the MUP website.
Paid Certificates
→ Issued by the Serbian Post Office, Chamber of Commerce, Halcom, and other authorized institutions.
→ Price: RSD 3,000–5,000.
2. Register Accounts on the eID and SBRA Portals
After receiving your certificate:
- Register on the eID portal.
- Create an account on the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA/APR) portal.
→ Without these accounts, submitting an online registration request is not possible.
3. Install the NexU Application
The SBRA uses the NexU application for electronic document signing.
- Download it from the SBRA website.
- Install and test it before submitting your application.
4. Submit an Online Registration Request
The online registration process includes:
- Entering your information: personal data, address, contact.
- Business name and activity code: align it with your business plan.
- Employment status: state whether this is your main occupation or if you’re already employed.
- Taxation model:
- Flat-rate taxation – simple, ideal for beginners.
- Personal salary – suitable for steady income, requires bookkeeping.
- Self-taxation – default option, often less favorable.
- VAT status: decide based on expected revenue.
- Fee payment: RSD 1,500–1,600.
- Decision issuance: typically within 6 business days.
5. How to Choose the Right Taxation Model?
Flat-Rate Taxation
→ The simplest and most common choice for service-based businesses.
→ No bookkeeping required.
Personal Salary
→ A good option for higher income and better control.
→ Requires maintaining business books.
Self-Taxation
→ The least favorable option, involves high taxes and contributions.
Tips: What to Avoid
- Incomplete documentation – double-check everything in advance.
- Incorrect taxation model – for most startups and freelancers, flat-rate taxation is the most cost-effective.
- Invalid certificate – test it before submitting your application.
Source: “Ask an Accountant” website
Author: Ivan Obućina
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