Serbia (RS)
A low-cost Western Balkan EU-candidate country with a lively Belgrade expat scene, strong IT and gaming sectors, cafe culture, good regional travel links, private healthcare options and a fast-moving residence/work permit system.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Serbia.
Denominations
Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 dinars. Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 dinars.
Payment Culture
Cards are widely accepted in Belgrade, Novi Sad and larger chains, but cash is still essential for green markets, small bakeries, taxis, rural restaurants, landlords and many public-office fees. Keep small notes because change for 5000 dinar notes can be awkward.
ATM Tips
Use bank ATMs attached to major banks such as Banca Intesa, OTP, Raiffeisen, UniCredit, Erste, AIK or NLB Komercijalna. Decline dynamic currency conversion, avoid standalone tourist ATMs, and keep receipts for large withdrawals.
Exchange Tips
Exchange offices called menjacnica are common and often beat airport rates. For large transfers, use bank transfer with source-of-funds documents. Serbia is outside the eurozone, so euro cash is useful for backup but daily bills are in dinars.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents