May 2nd, 2025 at 05:51 am

Serbia Revises D Visa Rules for Medical Treatment and Extended Care Stays in 2025

In a significant update that benefits global health travelers, Serbia has revised its D Visa policy. This change specifically targets foreign nationals seeking entry for medical treatment and social care services. The updated policy prioritizes transparency, healthcare institution accreditation, and clearer documentation requirements.

These improvements aim to streamline the visa application process for visitors.

What’s New?

Serbia now offers D Visas for two main medical purposes:

• Medical Treatment: This pathway is for those needing hospital-based care.
• Medical Care: This option caters to individuals requiring assistance in social welfare settings.

Both pathways aim to support extended medical stays for foreign nationals. These enhancements further establish Serbia as an attractive destination for affordable, high-quality medical tourism and long-term care.

Required Documentation Breakdown

For Medical Treatment

Foreign nationals seeking specialized care in Serbian healthcare institutions must provide the following documents:

• Completed D Visa Application Form: This can be submitted online or at Serbian embassies.
• Valid Passport: It should be valid for at least 90 days beyond the intended stay, issued within the last ten years, and contain two blank pages.
• Applicant’s Photo: A recent photograph that meets the official requirements.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment: A receipt confirming payment for the visa application.
• Invitation Letter: This must come from a registered healthcare institution in Serbia.
• Valid Health Insurance: Coverage that meets the requirements for medical treatment.
• Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that the applicant can cover expenses for the duration of their stay.
• Healthcare Institution Registration Certificate: This confirms that the institution is legally recognized in Serbia.
• Medical Letter: A document confirming the necessity and location of ongoing treatment.

For Medical Care (Social Welfare Institutions)

Individuals requiring long-term care in welfare homes must submit different documentation:

• Completed D Visa Application Form: Similar to the medical treatment route.
• Valid Passport: The same validity requirements apply as above.
• Applicant’s Photo: A recent photograph that adheres to official guidelines.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment: Confirmation of payment.
• Invitation Letter: This letter should be from a registered care institution.
• Valid Health Insurance: Must meet necessary criteria for social welfare.
• Proof of Financial Means: To cover the stay in the institution.
• Accommodation Confirmation: Documentation from the social protection institution.
• Institution’s Registration Certificate: Verification that the institution is licensed.
• Valid Work License: This should be issued by Serbian social protection authorities.

Note: All medical and social care institutions must be registered and licensed in Serbia, according to new compliance protocols.

Who Does This Impact?

These changes significantly affect several groups:

• International Patients: Individuals needing long-term treatment, such as cancer therapy, surgeries, or rehabilitation.
• Seniors: Older adults and those with chronic care needs seeking entry into certified assisted living homes.
• Family Caregivers: Guardians accompanying patients under Serbian long-stay visas will also benefit from the new regulations.

In conclusion, Serbia’s revised D Visa rules provide clearer pathways for medical treatment and long-term care. This initiative improves access for international patients, reinforcing Serbia’s position in the global medical tourism market.