Sarajevo Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, welcomes international visitors with relatively straightforward entry requirements. The country maintains a generous visa policy, offering visa-free access to citizens of many countries including the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Entry is typically granted for tourism, business, or family visits, with most visitors allowed to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a visa. The immigration process at Sarajevo International Airport is generally efficient and straightforward. Travelers will proceed through passport control upon arrival, where border officials will verify travel documents and may ask basic questions about the purpose and duration of the visit. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the European Union or Schengen Area, so all travelers, including EU citizens, must pass through immigration control. The country uses its own immigration system, and previous Schengen stays do not count toward the time allowed in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Before traveling to Sarajevo, ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's advisable to have proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds for your stay, as immigration officials may request these documents. While Bosnia and Herzegovina has aspirations to join the EU, travelers should be aware that it currently maintains its own entry requirements separate from neighboring EU member states like Croatia.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Bosnia and Herzegovina maintains a liberal visa policy for tourists and business travelers. Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for short stays, while others may obtain visas on arrival or must apply in advance through embassies or consulates.

Visa-Free Entry

90 days within any 180-day period

Citizens of these countries can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits

Includes

All European Union member states United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Brazil Argentina Chile Mexico Israel Turkey Serbia Montenegro North Macedonia Albania Kosovo (with biometric passport) United Arab Emirates Kuwait Qatar Bahrain

Holders of valid Schengen visas (Type C, multiple entry) or Schengen residence permits may also enter visa-free for up to 7 days or for the duration of visa validity if shorter. The same applies to holders of valid US, UK, or Irish visas and residence permits.

Visa on Arrival

Typically 7 to 30 days depending on nationality and purpose

Some nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Sarajevo International Airport

Includes

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry but holding valid Schengen, US, or UK visas may be eligible

How to Apply: Available at the border crossing points. Bring passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds. Processing is usually immediate but may take 30-60 minutes during busy periods.
Cost: Approximately 50-100 EUR depending on visa type and duration

Availability of visa on arrival can vary. It is strongly recommended to apply for a visa in advance at a Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or consulate to avoid potential entry denial.

Visa Required

Typically 30 to 90 days for tourist visas, depending on the application

Citizens of countries not covered by visa-free agreements must obtain a visa before traveling

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Applications typically require a completed form, valid passport, passport photos, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, financial means, and visa fee payment. Processing time is usually 7-15 business days but can take longer.

This includes citizens of most African countries, many Asian countries (including China, India, Pakistan, Philippines), and some Middle Eastern countries. Check with your nearest embassy for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Sarajevo International Airport or land border crossings, all travelers must pass through immigration control. The process is typically straightforward for those with proper documentation. Be prepared to present your passport, answer questions about your visit, and show supporting documents if requested.

Arrival and Disembarkation

After landing, follow signs to passport control (Pasoška kontrola). Keep your passport and any required documents easily accessible.

Passport Control

Present your passport to the border official. They will verify your identity, check visa requirements, and stamp your passport with an entry stamp. This stamp is important as it marks the start of your permitted stay.

Immigration Questions

Officers may ask about the purpose of your visit, where you're staying, and how long you plan to remain in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Answer honestly and concisely.

Baggage Claim

After clearing passport control, proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage.

Customs Declaration

Pass through customs control. Use the green channel (nothing to declare) if you have no items requiring declaration, or the red channel if you have goods to declare.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Once through customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can access transportation, currency exchange, and other services.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Should have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Visa (if required)

Printed copy of visa approval or valid visa sticker in passport for nationals requiring visas.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host. May be requested by immigration officials.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as return flight ticket or bus/train ticket to next destination.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay (approximately 150 BAM or 75 EUR per day is recommended).

Travel Insurance

While not always mandatory for visa-free travelers, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses is highly recommended and may be required for visa applications.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Ensure your passport has at least 3 months validity beyond your planned departure date and has blank pages for stamps.

Keep printed copies of all important documents (hotel bookings, return tickets, travel insurance) in your carry-on luggage for easy access.

Have the address of your first night's accommodation readily available, as immigration may ask for this information.

Be polite and patient with immigration officials. Answer questions clearly and honestly.

Keep your entry stamp visible and do not lose it, as you may need to show it when registering at hotels or when departing.

If staying with friends or family, have their contact information and address available.

Exchange a small amount of currency before arrival or at the airport to cover immediate expenses like transportation.

Download offline maps and important contact information before arrival in case of limited internet access.

If you plan to visit multiple Balkan countries, be aware that Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the Schengen Area, so separate entry requirements apply.

Customs & Duty-Free

Bosnia and Herzegovina customs regulations allow travelers to bring personal items and reasonable quantities of goods for personal use duty-free. All travelers must comply with customs regulations regarding prohibited and restricted items. Declaration is required for amounts exceeding specified limits.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits (over 22% alcohol) or 2 liters of wine or beer

Only for travelers aged 18 and over. Alcohol must be for personal consumption, not for commercial purposes.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Only for travelers aged 18 and over. Tobacco products must be for personal use.

Currency

Up to 10,000 EUR (or equivalent in other currencies) without declaration

Amounts exceeding 10,000 EUR must be declared to customs upon entry and exit. This includes cash, checks, and other monetary instruments. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Personal items and gifts up to 300 BAM (approximately 150 EUR) in value

Goods exceeding this value may be subject to customs duties and taxes. Items must be for personal use and not for resale.

Perfume

50 grams of perfume or 250 ml of eau de toilette

For personal use only.

Electronics

Personal electronic devices (laptop, phone, camera) are duty-free

Multiple items of the same type may be questioned and could be subject to duty if deemed for commercial purposes.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - strictly prohibited with severe criminal penalties
Weapons and ammunition - without proper permits and authorization
Explosives and fireworks - except with special authorization
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items and pirated media
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals or plants (ivory, certain furs, exotic leather)
Pornographic materials - particularly those involving minors
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - without proper export documentation from country of origin
Meat and dairy products - from non-EU countries (with some exceptions for small personal quantities)
Plants and seeds - without phytosanitary certificates

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by prescription or doctor's letter, limited to personal use quantities (typically 30-90 day supply)
Pets and animals - require valid pet passports, health certificates, rabies vaccination records, and microchip identification
Large amounts of cash - amounts over 10,000 EUR must be declared
Professional equipment - cameras, drones, and other professional equipment may require temporary import permits
Alcohol and tobacco exceeding duty-free limits - subject to customs duties and taxes
Drones and radio-controlled devices - may require permits for operation; check current regulations before bringing

Health Requirements

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not currently require specific vaccinations for entry for most travelers. However, health requirements can change, particularly in response to global health situations. It is essential to check current requirements before traveling.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - only required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (certificate must be presented at border)

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines including MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), and polio
Hepatitis A - recommended for most travelers due to potential exposure through food or water
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have contact with blood or body fluids, or engage in medical procedures
Rabies - recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities, working with animals, or in rural areas
Tick-borne encephalitis - recommended for travelers planning outdoor activities in forested areas, particularly from spring to autumn

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for all visitors, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for visa applications. Bosnia and Herzegovina has reciprocal healthcare agreements with some countries, but coverage may be limited. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), though private insurance is still advisable for comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation. Ensure your insurance covers medical treatment, hospitalization, and emergency repatriation.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 and other health requirements may change rapidly. Check the latest entry requirements regarding COVID-19 testing, vaccination certificates, or quarantine measures with the Bosnia and Herzegovina Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your nearest embassy before traveling. Some health measures may still be in place at borders or specific venues. It's advisable to carry proof of vaccination and travel insurance documentation regardless of current requirements.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Sarajevo for citizen services and emergency assistance

Check your government's travel advisory website before departure for current safety information and register your travel plans if available. Major embassies are located in Sarajevo's diplomatic quarter.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Official source for visa and entry requirement information: www.mvp.gov.ba

For visa applications, contact the nearest Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

Service for Foreigners' Affairs

Handles visa extensions, residence permits, and registration of foreign nationals

Located in Sarajevo for matters related to extending your stay or registration requirements.

Emergency Services

Dial 122 for Police, 124 for Ambulance, 123 for Fire Department, or 112 for general emergencies

112 is the European standard emergency number and works throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. English may be limited; having a local speaker assist if possible is helpful.

Sarajevo International Airport

Airport information and services: +387 33 289 100

For inquiries about arrivals, departures, lost luggage, and airport services.

Tourist Information

Sarajevo Tourist Information Center can assist with local information and questions

Located in the city center, staff can help with accommodation, transportation, and general visitor inquiries.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel. This letter should include the child's details, travel dates, destination, and contact information for the parent(s). If traveling with only one parent due to sole custody, divorce, or death of the other parent, carry supporting legal documentation. Birth certificates showing parental relationship may also be requested. These requirements help prevent child abduction and are strictly enforced at borders.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Bosnia and Herzegovina must have a valid pet passport or health certificate issued by an official veterinarian. Dogs and cats must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel (but not more than one year prior, or according to vaccine manufacturer's recommendations). A rabies antibody titer test may be required for pets from certain countries. Pets must enter through designated border crossings that have veterinary inspection services. Some breeds of dogs may be restricted. Contact the Veterinary Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina for current requirements. Airlines have their own pet travel policies that must also be followed.

Extended Stays

Visitors wishing to stay longer than the initial 90-day visa-free period must apply for a temporary residence permit through the Service for Foreigners' Affairs before their initial authorized stay expires. This typically requires proof of sufficient financial means, accommodation, health insurance, and a valid reason for extended stay (work, study, family reunification, etc.). Work permits are separate and must be obtained before starting employment. Overstaying your authorized period can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. If you need to extend for tourism purposes, you may need to exit the country and re-enter, but frequent border runs may raise questions from immigration officials.

Registration Requirements

Foreign visitors staying in Bosnia and Herzegovina must register their presence within 48 hours of arrival. If staying in hotels, hostels, or other commercial accommodation, the establishment will handle registration automatically. If staying with friends, family, or in private accommodation, you or your host must register your stay at the local police station. Keep proof of registration as you may need to present it when departing the country. Failure to register can result in fines when leaving.

Dual Citizens and Multiple Passports

Travelers holding dual citizenship, including Bosnian citizenship, must enter and exit Bosnia and Herzegovina using their Bosnian passport. Using a different passport when you hold Bosnian citizenship may cause complications at border control. If you have citizenship of Bosnia and Herzegovina and another country, clarify your entry requirements with the nearest embassy before traveling.

Business Travelers

Business visitors entering visa-free can attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot engage in paid employment without a work permit. Carry an invitation letter from the Bosnian company or organization, proof of business registration from your home country, and documentation of the business purpose. If you plan to work or provide services, you must obtain a work permit before arrival, which requires employer sponsorship and approval from the employment service.

Students

Students planning to study in Bosnia and Herzegovina need a temporary residence permit for educational purposes. This requires acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution, proof of financial means to support yourself, health insurance, and accommodation confirmation. Apply at a Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling. Short-term educational programs (under 90 days) may be possible on tourist entry, but verify with your institution.

Journalists and Media Professionals

Foreign journalists and media crews should notify the Bosnia and Herzegovina Ministry of Foreign Affairs before arrival. While tourist visas may suffice for some activities, professional media work may require special accreditation. Carry press credentials, assignment letters, and equipment lists. Be aware that filming in certain areas (military installations, government buildings) requires special permission.