Visa and Entry Requirements in Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. What is the current visa policy for traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina?


The current visa policy for traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina allows citizens of certain countries to enter without a visa for short stays. This includes citizens of the European Union, as well as nationals of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the EU do not need a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. Citizens of other countries may be eligible for a visa on arrival or may require a visa prior to travel.

3. How long can I stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa?

Citizens of the EU can stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days without needing a visa. Other nationalities may be able to stay for up to 30 days without a visa, but it is best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

4. Can I extend my stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina if I do not have a visa?

No, you cannot extend your stay beyond the allowed duration without obtaining a visa. If you wish to stay longer than the permitted time frame, you will need to apply for a visa extension at the relevant embassy or consulate before your current entry permit expires.

5. How can I apply for a Bosnian Visa?

You can apply for a Bosnian Visa by contacting the nearest Bosnian embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to submit an application form, along with supporting documents such as proof of purpose of travel, financial means, accommodation arrangements, and valid passport/travel document.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina as a tourist?


It depends on your country of citizenship. Citizens from the European Union (EU) countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina as tourists for up to 90 days. However, citizens from other countries may need to obtain a visa before their arrival. It is recommended to check with the Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy in your country for specific visa requirements.

3. Are there any exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Bosnia and Herzegovina?


Yes, citizens of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements for short-term stays in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These include citizens of EU member states, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many others. A full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website. However, it is important to note that even citizens of exempt countries may still need to obtain a valid work or residence permit if they plan on staying in Bosnia and Herzegovina for longer periods of time or engaging in employment or business activities.

4. How long does it typically take to obtain a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina?


The processing time for a visa to Bosnia and Herzegovina varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s country of origin. In general, it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several months to obtain a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least 3-4 weeks before your intended date of travel.

5. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Bosnia and Herzegovina?


Yes, there are several options for expedited processing of visa applications for Bosnia and Herzegovina. These include:

1. Express Visa Service: This service allows applicants to receive their visas within 3 business days.

2. Urgent Visa Processing: This option allows for visa applications to be processed within 24 hours.

3. Appointment priority: By booking an appointment online, applicants can choose a specific date and time for their visa interview, which can help expedite the application process.

4. Online Visa Application: Submitting the visa application online can also speed up the processing time as it eliminates the need for mailing or hand-delivering documents.

5. Visa Application Centers (VACs): Applicants can submit their visa applications at VACs, which offer faster processing times than submitting directly to the Embassy or Consulate.

It is important to note that these services may come at an additional cost. For more information on these options, it is recommended to contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

6. Are vaccinations required for entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina?


Yes, vaccinations are not required for entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends being up to date on routine vaccines before traveling to any destination. They also recommend getting a hepatitis A vaccine and a typhoid vaccine if you plan on drinking or eating outside of big hotels or restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is always best to consult with your doctor or a travel health professional before your trip to determine any necessary vaccines or precautions based on your individual health status and planned activities in the country.

7. Is there a limit on how long I am allowed to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina on a tourist visa?

Yes, tourists are typically allowed to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina for a maximum of 90 days within a 6-month period. This can vary depending on your country of citizenship, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your nationality before traveling. If you wish to stay longer, you may need to apply for a visa extension or apply for a different type of visa.

8. Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Bosnia and Herzegovina?


No, holding a tourist visa does not allow you to work or volunteer in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You would need to obtain a work or volunteer visa for these activities.

9. Is it possible to extend my tourist visa once I am already in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, it is possible to extend your tourist visa in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You will need to apply for an extension at the Service for Foreigners Affairs office in the city where you are currently staying. There is a non-refundable fee for extending your visa, and you will also need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during the extended stay. It is recommended that you begin the extension process at least 15 days before your current visa expires.

10. What are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Bosnia and Herzegovina?


The necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Bosnia and Herzegovina may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Generally, you will need:

1. A completed visa application form: This can be obtained from the embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina in your country or through their online portal.

2. A valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of departure from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

3. Two recent passport-sized photos: The photo requirements may differ, so it is best to check with the embassy before submitting your application.

4. Travel itinerary: This includes details of your trip such as flight bookings, hotel reservations, and planned activities.

5. Proof of accommodation: This can be a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from a host in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

6. Proof of financial means: You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This can be shown through bank statements, credit card statements, or sponsorship letter if someone else is funding your trip.

7. Travel insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or accidents during your stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

8. A copy of round-trip ticket or onward flight reservation: This shows that you have plans to return to your home country or continue traveling after your visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

9. Visa fee payment receipt: The cost of a visa varies depending on the type and duration of the visa you are applying for. Check with the embassy for their current fees and accepted payment methods.

10. Additional documents as per purpose of the visit: If you are visiting for business purposes, you may also need to provide an invitation letter from a company in Bosnia and Herzegovina along with other relevant documents.

It is important to note that the above list is for informational purposes only and the embassy or consulate may require additional documents. It is best to check with them directly before submitting your application.

11. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for business travelers entering Bosnia and Herzegovina?


Yes, there are specific requirements and restrictions for business travelers entering Bosnia and Herzegovina.

1. Valid passport: All travelers, including business travelers, must have a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining from the date of entry.

2. Visa requirements: Business travelers from some countries will need to obtain a visa before entering Bosnia and Herzegovina. For a list of countries whose citizens require a visa, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

3. Invitation letter or business purpose letter: Business travelers may be required to provide an invitation letter from their company in Bosnia and Herzegovina or a host company inviting them for meetings or conferences. They may also be asked to provide a letter stating the purpose of their trip.

4. COVID-19 restrictions: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all travelers entering Bosnia and Herzegovina must present a negative PCR test not older than 48 hours upon arrival. Business travelers must also register on the local health authority’s website prior to departure.

5. Work permits: Non-EU citizens may require a work permit if they plan to conduct business activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina for more than three months.

6. Business registration: If conducting business activities, foreign companies must register with the relevant competent authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

7. Tax registration number (PIB): Companies operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina must have a PIB number available before applying for residency visas or work permits for their employees.

8. Traveling with technology: It is advisable to bring any necessary technological equipment needed for conducting business as it may be difficult to find certain devices in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

9. Currency regulations: There are no restrictions on the import or export of foreign currency, but amounts exceeding €10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared at customs upon arrival or departure.

10. Quarantine requirements: Travelers who do not present a negative PCR test upon arrival may be subject to a 14-day quarantine. Business travelers should plan their trip accordingly and obtain the required PCR test before traveling.

11. Sanctions list: It is important for business travelers to ensure they are not on any sanctions list issued by the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina or the United Nations while conducting business in the country. It is also advisable to avoid doing business with individuals or entities on such lists.

12. Do minors require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Bosnia and Herzegovina?


Yes, minors do require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Bosnia and Herzegovina. They will need to apply for their own visa at the Bosnian embassy or consulate in their country of residence. The only exception is if the child holds a valid passport from an EU/EEA member state, in which case they may enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa if accompanied by their parent or legal guardian who holds a valid residence permit or biometric ID card issued by an EU/EEA member state.

13. What is the duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?


The duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina is dependent on the type of visa issued and the purpose of travel.

– Single entry: A single entry tourist visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days within a period of six months from the date of issue. This means that you can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina only once and stay for up to 90 days within a six-month period.

– Multiple entry: A multiple-entry tourist visa is valid for one year from the date of issue, with each stay limited to 90 days.

It is important to note that the duration of stay allowed may also be determined by the border authorities upon arrival. It is recommended to check with the Bosnian embassy or consulate in your country for specific information regarding visa validity.

14. Can I enter and exit multiple times with one single-entry tourist visa for travels within Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No, once you enter Bosnia and Herzegovina with a single-entry tourist visa, you cannot exit and re-enter multiple times. You will need to apply for a new visa if you plan on leaving and returning to the country.

15. Can I apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No, Bosnia and Herzegovina does not offer visas upon arrival for tourists. Visitors must obtain a visa from a Bosnian embassy or consulate before traveling to the country.

16. Does my passport need to have a minimum number of months remaining before expiration in order to apply for a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?


According to the official government website of Bosnia and Herzegovina, there is no minimum requirement for the number of months remaining on your passport in order to apply for a visa. However, it is recommended that your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your planned exit from the country. This is a general rule for most countries. It is always best to check with the embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina in your country of residence for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements.

17. Will my criminal record affect my eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?


Possibly. It depends on the nature of the crime and whether or not it is considered a threat to national security or public order. If you have a criminal record, you will need to disclose it in your visa application and provide documentation (such as court records) as proof. Applicants with serious criminal records may be denied a visa, while those with minor offenses may still be eligible but could face additional scrutiny during the application process. It is best to consult with a Bosnian embassy or consulate for specific guidance based on your individual situation.

18. What are the consequences if I overstay my tourist visa period in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Overstaying your tourist visa period in Bosnia and Herzegovina can result in fines, deportation, and difficulty in obtaining future visas. You may also be banned from re-entering the country for a certain period of time. It is important to abide by the terms of your visa and leave the country before it expires to avoid these consequences.

19.Is it possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit (such as student, work, or family) to another while remaining within country limits in Bosnia and Herzegovina?


It is possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit to another in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as long as the individual meets the requirements for the new permit and has valid reasons for the conversion. However, the process may vary depending on the specific circumstances and it is recommended to consult with the relevant authorities for guidance on the specific steps and documents required for a successful conversion.

20.What are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Bosnia and Herzegovina?


1. The photos must be recent, taken within the last 6 months.
2. They should measure 45mm x 35mm (1.77″ x 1.38″) – the usual size for passport photos.
3. The background should be plain, white or light-colored, with no patterns or shadows.
4. The photo should be in color, with good contrast and no filters or digital alterations.
5. The applicant’s face should be centered and directly facing the camera, with a neutral expression and mouth closed.
6. The head should occupy about 70-80% of the photo, with some space above the head and below the chin.
7. Both ears should be visible in the photo.
8. Glasses can be worn but they must not obscure any facial features and there should be no glare on the lenses.
9. Head coverings may only be worn for religious or cultural reasons, but they must not cover any facial features.
10. Photos of babies or young children must show their eyes open and mouths closed (no pacifiers).
11. There cannot be any objects such as toys or other people visible in the photo.
12. Photos printed at home are not accepted; they must be professionally printed on high-quality paper and have a glossy finish.
13. The back of each photo must include the full name of the applicant written in pencil, as well as their date of birth and signature (for children under 16 years old, parent/guardian signature is required).
14. It is recommended to get multiple copies of the same photo since some applications may require more than one photo.
15.. Digital photos uploaded online for eVisa applications must follow all of these requirements as well.

It’s important to check with the specific embassy or consulate where you will be applying for your visa to ensure that you meet all their requirements for passport photos before submitting your application.