can i travel to bosnia with id card

• Immigration

Visa Rules and Required Documents for Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Traveling to bosnia and herzegovina make sure to familiarize yourself with the visa rules and required documents. this article provides essential information on visa requirements for bosnia and herzegovina, including necessary documents, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience..

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the visa requirements for traveling to Bosnia & Herzegovina, including exemptions for certain nationalities and required documents.
• Learn how to apply for a visa, including completing an application form and providing supporting documents.
• Stay informed about visa regulations by checking the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or consulting the embassy.

Understanding Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Visa Requirements

Traveling to new countries can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to understanding visa rules. If you’re planning to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, familiarizing yourself with the visa regulations and necessary documentation ahead of time can save you from unwanted stress. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or to visit family, knowing the entry requirements is crucial. Here’s a simplified guide to help you prepare for your trip to this beautiful Balkan country.

Who Needs a Visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Firstly, it’s important to ascertain if you even need a visa for your visit. Citizens of many countries, including those from the European Union, the United States, and Canada, are exempt from visa requirements for visits of up to 90 days within a six-month period. However, the rules may vary, so it’s always best to check current visa requirements before traveling.

Required Documents for a Trouble-Free Entry

Even if you do not need a visa, you must present several documents upon arrival:

• Valid Passport : It should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds : Ensure you can show you have enough money to cover your stay. This might include cash, traveler’s checks, or bank statements.
• Evidence of Accommodation : Be ready to show where you will be staying, whether it’s a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation if staying with friends or family.
• Return Ticket : It’s wise to have proof of your intention to leave the country after your visit, such as a return or onward travel ticket.

Those needing a visa will require additional documentation, which often includes a completed application form, a passport-size photograph, and proof of travel insurance.

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New umrah visa rule: 3-month validity from issuance date, japan esta requirement for visa-exempt travelers by 2030, applying for a visa.

If you do require a visa, you will need to apply before you travel. Applications should be submitted to the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

• Application Form : Complete the application form with accurate information.
• Recent Passport-Size Photo : Make sure it meets the specified requirements.
• Travel Itinerary : This includes confirmed hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with a host.

Remember to check the specific visa type according to your travel purpose, as the required documents may differ for tourists, business visitors, or those visiting family.

Staying Informed and Updated

Laws and requirements can change, so for the latest and most accurate information regarding visas and travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina, check the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina or consult with their embassy in your country.

Final Checklist Before Traveling

To ensure a hassle-free experience when you arrive in Bosnia and Herzegovina, here’s a quick checklist:

• Verify if you need a visa based on your citizenship.
• Double-check passport validity and renew it if necessary.
• Prepare your supporting documents, such as proof of sufficient funds and accommodation.
• If a visa is required, apply well in advance at an embassy or consulate.
• Keep an eye on potential changes in immigration laws as your travel date approaches.

Embracing the Bosnian Experience

By understanding and adhering to the visa rules and documentation requirements, you can look forward to a memorable visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, exploring its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming culture. Prepare well, travel smart, and enjoy your Bosnian adventure to the fullest!

Alrighty, folks! Now that you’re armed with all the visa knowledge you need for your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, nothing can stop you from having an epic adventure! Just remember to check if you need a visa, gather those essential documents like a pro, and apply ahead of time if required. Stay updated with the latest info, and don’t forget to explore more travel tips on visaverge.com. So, get ready to immerse yourself in Bosnian beauty and let the good times roll!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: Who needs a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Answer: Citizens of many countries, including those from the European Union, the United States, and Canada, are exempt from visa requirements for visits of up to 90 days within a six-month period. However, visa rules may vary, so it’s always best to check current visa requirements before traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

FAQ 2: What documents are required for entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Answer: To enter Bosnia and Herzegovina, even without a visa, you must present several documents upon arrival, including a valid passport (with at least three months’ validity beyond your planned departure date), proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, evidence of accommodation, and a return ticket to show your intention to leave the country after your visit. Additional documentation may be required for those needing a visa, such as a completed application form, a passport-size photograph, and proof of travel insurance.

FAQ 3: How do I apply for a visa to Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Answer: If you require a visa to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, you will need to apply before your trip. The application should be submitted to the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina. To apply, complete the application form with accurate information, provide a recent passport-size photo that meets the specified requirements, and include a travel itinerary that includes confirmed hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with a host. Make sure to check the specific visa type and its requirements based on your travel purpose, whether it’s tourism, business, or visiting family.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• True or False: Citizens of the European Union are exempt from visa requirements when visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days within a six-month period.
• What are the four key documents that travelers must present upon arrival in Bosnia and Herzegovina, even if they do not need a visa? a) Valid Passport, Proof of Sufficient Funds, Evidence of Accommodation, Return Ticket b) Valid ID Card, Bank Statements, Hotel Reservation, Travel Insurance c) Birth Certificate, Letter of Invitation, Employment Contract, Itinerary d) Student ID, Credit Card Statements, Airbnb Booking Confirmation, Round-trip Ticket
• Where should travelers submit their visa applications for Bosnia and Herzegovina? a) Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina b) Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina c) Local Post Office or Travel Agency d) Online through the Electronic Visa Application System

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Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without restrictions.

Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Mask usage in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegovina are open. Bars in Bosnia and Herzegovina are .

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Bosnia and Herzegovina

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
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Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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• Bosnia Herzegovina
• 11 Things To Know Before...

11 Things to Know Before Visiting Bosnia

Two decades after the conflict, Bosnia is recovering and becoming a destination for adventurous travellers. Here are a few practical things to know before travelling to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bosnia is not a war zone.

“Tell your friends that Bosnia isn’t a war zone anymore,” were the final words of Neno, our Sarajevo walking tour guide. More than 20 years after the Yugoslav Wars and the Siege of Sarajevo, it’s surprising how many people think Bosnia is still in conflict. Neno joked with us about how many Western tourists expressed delight at not being shot as they took part in his tour. Bosnia is a safe destination to visit, and you’re not going to be the target of a sniper hiding in the hills!

Getting into Bosnia

The passport stamp.

When arriving in Bosnia and Herzegovina over a land border, you may or may not get an entrance or exit stamp. Immigration officers collect the documents on the bus before returning them to the driver. Passengers usually don’t get off. Border officials are sometimes careless because the locals only need to show their ID cards. You may not get your passport back until the bus has long since departed from the border. Not getting a stamp is worrying but rarely causes problems. If you’re concerned, insist on getting off the bus.

Know the difference between ‘Bosnian’ and ‘Bosniak’

The complicated history makes a tiny difference in spelling a contentious issue. ‘Bosnian’ and ‘Bosniak’ aren’t synonyms. A Bosniak is an ethnic Muslim; a Bosnian is someone from Bosnia, or their nationality. There are Bosnian Bosniaks (Muslims), Bosnian Serbs (Orthodox Christians), and Bosnian Croats (Catholics).

The Bosnian convertible mark

The Bosnian Mark is the official currency, which Republika Srpska uses too. At the time of writing, $1 USD is approximately 1.6KM, and €1 is just under 2KM. Tourists can often pay in USD or Euros with an unfavourable exchange rate, and locals accept the Croatian Kuna in places near the border. But don’t rely on people accepting foreign currency, especially outside of the touristy areas.

Exchange rates

Compared to neighbouring countries, the exchange rates in Bosnia take up to 5 percent. Rates in Serbia are better and give almost a one-to-one rate, which means it may be a good idea to change money before reaching Bosnia if you’re already in the Balkans. If you do need to change more, several exchange offices are along Ferhadija Street.

Expect beggars in Sarajevo, Mostar and Banja Luka. Some are genuine. Others are not. Unemployment, alcoholism and a lack government help force the unfortunate to the streets. Older women, probably widowed, roam the streets selling anything from tissues to socks. ‘Buy’ something to donate your money. Others sit in the touristy areas holding their hands out.

Credit cards

Bosnia is a cash-based society, perhaps because the country’s only just starting to recover a result of the economic crash after the Bosnian War. ATMs are available where you can expect to pay up to 7 percent in fees, conversions and commissions. Not all places accept credit card. Bring cash.

The free walking tour

Free walking tours are available in Sarajevo and Mostar . Local guides take visitors around explaining the main sights in a historical and cultural context. The young guides lived through the war and will share their experience. Sarajevo has two daily free tours: The East Meets West in the morning goes to the main attractions, and the afternoon War Scars is about the Siege of Sarajevo.

Shopping in Bosnia

Bosnia isn’t part of the EU and doesn’t have the same freedom to trade as other countries. Retail prices are higher for imported goods such as shoes and clothes. You may get a Western European price tag in some shops for cheap, lower-quality products.

Having a stress-free trip to Bosnia

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a little rough around the edges but nowhere is perfect, right? Bring cash, expect laid-back border officials and give donations to the right people.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Introducing Bosnia and Herzegovina

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• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Before you go

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• Sarajevo International Airport

Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa and Passport Requirements

A passport valid for three months beyond the date of departure from Bosnia and Herzegovina is required by all nationals referred to in chart above.

1. EU citizens may also enter using a valid ID card.

Visas are not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for staying in Bosnia and Herzegovina of up to 90 days within a six-month period and with up to 30 days per stay.

Nationals not referred to in the chart are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.

All visitors need to register with the police within 72 hours of arrival; your hotel will usually arrange this on your behalf.

Types and Cost

Short-term single-entry visa and transit visa: £26; short-term multiple-entry visa: £48; long-term visa: £61.

Single- or double-entry transit visas: five days; short-term single- and multiple-entry visas: 90 days; single- or multiple-entry long-term visas: over 90 days.

Application to

Consulate (or consular section at embassy).

Temporary residence

If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply to the Border Police for a residence permit.

Working days

Allow three working days for short-term visas and one to three months for long-term visas.

Sufficient Funds

Travellers should have at least KM150 for each day of their visit.

Compulsary Registration

Registration is mandatory for all foreigners who wish to remain in the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina longer than 3 days. A landlord with whom a foreigner resides is obliged to register the address of his/her residence directly to competent organizational units of the service or police within 48 hours from the moment of entry.

Entry with children

If applying for a visa for a child, both parents should sign the form. If one parent can't sign it, they need to provide a notarised letter authorising travel with a copy of their passport. 

Entry with pets

Pets must be accompanied by a veterinary certificate and rabies vaccination record.

Embassies and tourist offices

Embassy of bosnia and herzegovina in the uk.

Mon-Fri 0900-1700, Mon-Fri 1000-1300 (consular section).

Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the USA

Mon-Fri 0900-1700; Mon-Fri 1000-1500 (consular section).

British Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mon-Thurs 0830-1700, Fri 0830-1430.

Related Articles

10 things to see and do in Sarajevo

Sarajevo's many places of interest resulted from the scars of past conflicts, here are ten things to see and do that you shouldn't miss

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BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

BORDER POLICE

Border Police of BiH recording ever better work results!

Director Kuprešaković in a study visit to Spain

19.04.2024.

Two foreign citizens apprehended for migrant smuggling

18.04.2024.

Deputy Director of the Border Police of BiH, Ensad Korman received a visit from representatives of the PISCES Program

16.04.2024.

Meeting of Director Kuprešaković with the IOM Chief of Mission Laura Lungarotti

09.04.2024.

Temporary ban on the traffic of vehicles weighing more than 5 tons

08.04.2024.

BiH citizens apprehended for the smuggling of 28 people of African-Asian origin

05.04.2024.

PHOTO GALLERY

Solemn ceremony on the occasion of the Day and the 23th Anniversary of Border Police of BiH, Sarajevo, 6 June 2023

Solemn ceremony on the occasion of the Day and the 22th Anniversary of Border Police of BiH, Sarajevo, 6 June 2022

Solemn ceremony on the occasion of the Day and the 21th Anniversary of Border Police of BiH, Sarajevo, 6 June 2021

Donation of specialist equipment and presentation of the Anti-Bomb Team of BP BiH, Sarajevo, 14 October 2019

Handover of specialist equipment donation of the Czech Republic to Border Police of BiH, Sarajevo, 11 September 2019

Mirko Kuprešaković, Director of Border Police

Mirko Kuprešaković ,  Director of Border Police  

Dear visitors!

Welcome to the official website of Border Police of BiH, whose goal is transparent, objective, valid and timely informing the public about all issues within the competence of Border Police of BiH. The content of this page seeks to provide readers with all important information on the structure and functioning of Border Police of BiH, the first multiethnic law enforcement agency in BiH, established in 2000.

Crossing the state border of BiH

CITIZENS’ REPORTING

(complaints, corruption, cross border crime)

THE LAW ON FREEDOM OF ACCESS TO INFORMATION

Guidebook: access to information

Frequently asked questions

PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS

Interactive Map of Organizational Units of Border Police of BiH

Whose citizens may, except with a travel document, cross the state border of BiH with a valid ID card?

With a valid identity card proving identity and citizenship, citizens of the European Union Member States, Schengen countries, Albania, Andorra, Montenegro, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Monaco, San Marino, Serbia, the Holy See and the Swiss Confederation may enter, exit, transit and stay in the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina for 90 days in any period of 180 days, which includes taking into account the period of 180 days preceding each day of stay.

Note: With the entry into force of the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union, i.e. upon the expiration of the transitional period on 31 December.2020, citizens of the United Kingdom cannot enter, exit, transit and stay on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina with a valid identity card, i.e. it is necessary to have a valid national passport when crossing the state border of BiH.

May a BiH citizen travel to the Republic of Croatia with an ID card?

After the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union, the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina must have a valid travel document (biometric passport) for entry and visa-free stay for up to 90 days in the territory of the Republic of Croatia.

Is a power of attorney required for crossing the state border of a minor citizen of BiH?

The holder of a travel document - a BiH citizen under the age of 14, i.e. an incapacitated person, does not need a power of attorney/consent to travel abroad accompanied by one or both parents or a legal representative or guardian.

A BiH citizen under the age of 14 must have the consent of both parents or a legal representative or guardian, certified by the competent authority, if he/she is accompanied by another person.

Documents required by a BiH citizen to cross the BiH state border?

BiH citizens may cross the state border with valid travel documents. A travel document is a valid passport or other identification document issued by the competent authority of BiH, and a valid identity card and other identification document with a photograph that may be used to cross the state border and is recognized by an international agreement to which BiH is a party.

The state border of Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be crossed with a birth certificate, health certificate or school book.

A BiH citizen who has the citizenship of another state is not considered a foreigner in the territory of BiH.

The state border of BiH may be crossed only at border crossing points, at a time and in a manner consistent with the purpose of the border crossing points.

What documents does a foreigner need to enter BiH?

A foreigner may enter BiH if he/she has a valid passport or other identification document that he/she may use to enter BiH, whose validity is at least three months longer than the intended date of departure from the territory of BiH, and was issued in the last 10 years or is issued PERMANENTLY. In justified urgent cases, i.e. if required by the BiH security reasons, humanitarian, serious professional or personal reasons, the validity period of the travel document may be shorter.

A travel document is a valid passport or other identification document issued by a foreign competent authority and recognized by BiH, and a valid identity card and other identification document with a photograph that may be used to cross the state border and is recognized by an international agreement to which BiH is a party, as well as a travel document issued to a foreigner in BiH in accordance with the Law on Foreigners or the Law on Asylum.

A foreigner who does not enter BiH with a travel document issued by a state whose citizens are exempted from the obligation to obtain a visa, may enter BiH if he/she has a valid visa to enter, stay or cross the territory of BiH, or if he/she has a residence permit prescribed by law.

Služba za međunarodnu saradnju

VISA & RESIDENCE PERMIT

Coming to Bosnia and Herzegovina for educational purposes

This page explains the following topics for regulating your status in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Travel documents
• entering without visa
• entering with visa
• Residence permit
• Foreign Affairs Office

1 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Entry of international students and staff members to Bosnia and Herzegovina is regulated by the  Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina . To enter Bosnia and Herzegovina, you need a valid ID or passport . If you hold a European Union (EU) Member state ID or passport, you can enter our country for a short stay of up to 90 days. For all other countries, please check the status of your travel document with the Embassy or a Consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina in your country. Please note: citizens of non-EU countries (holders of the non-EU passport) who live and stay in the EU and have a valid EU visa can enter for a short stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Please let us know if you need a visa to enter B&H. Providing a visa is a lengthy procedure that can take up to two months. 

Please note: 

• Students coming for educational purposes and staying longer than three months must bring their passports . 
• Staff members (who do not require a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina) and stay less than three months can use their ID.

2 VISA TO ENTER BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

• Without visa

Nationals of the following states may enter Bosnia and Herzegovina with a passport or a valid identity card proving their identity and citizenship without a visa: 

• Member State of the European Union
• State signatory to the Schengen Agreement
• Albania, Andora, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Serbia, the Holy See, the Swiss Confederation, Turkey

You can check whether your home country needs a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of B&H. We recommend contacting your country’s embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina for correct information. 

Below you can check if your home country has an official representation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (embassy or consulate). If not listed, you will see which country covers the administration for your home country. Blue pins show the country with the embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina in that country. Red pins mark countries that don’t have an embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina and connect your country’s representation. 

Suppose you need a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. In that case, you need to obtain  a verified invitation letter to enter/stay in B&H  (which differs from the invitation letter from the University of Sarajevo).

A verified invitation letter to enter/stay in B&H  is prepared by the University of Sarajevo’s member unit (faculty, academy, centre, institute) and confirmed by the Foreign Affairs Office. Its content is focused on inviting a student or staff member to visit B&H for a specific purpose and a certain period when they need a visa to enter B&H. 

Students and staff can stay in B&H for a shorter or longer period, so documents for issuing a “C” or “D” visa are prepared accordingly:

• “C” visa  – This visa is issued for foreign students and staff staying in B&H for less than 90 days.
• “D” visa  – This visa is issued for foreign students and staff who will stay in B&H for more than 90 days to 1 year (this is the most common type of visa required since one semester lasts longer than three months).

Please note: It is essential to know about your visa status a few months prior, as preparing and collecting documents is bureaucratic and can last up to two months. Check the deadlines for nomination.

More detailed information is provided in the  Instructions for the verified invitation letter  for the local staff at the University of Sarajevo. This document is available to the local staff that will prepare and administrate the invitation letter and can be downloaded from this link (titled: DOLAZNI – Uputstvo za pripremanje pozivnog pisma za vizu za inostrane studente ).

3 REGULATING YOUR RESIDENCE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

As in every country in the world, Bosnia and Herzegovina has regulations regarding foreign entering, staying and exiting. As an international student/staff member staying in Bosnia and Herzegovina for more than 90 days  for academic/teaching purposes, you must regulate your  residence  status. For this, you need to obtain two documents:

Please note:  these documents are obtained upon your arrival in Sarajevo, so you do not need to get them before. However, you must bring certain supporting documents from your home country for the residence permit. 

Regulating your residence (white card and residence permit) in B&H – instructions – <<< please download it and read carefully!

4 how to get to the foreigner affairs office.

The Foreign Affairs Office is placed at the address: A transverzala-Michael Schumacher, broj 8, Braće Mulić 38, Sarajevo 71000. You will notice black – glass building and official flags of Bosnia and Herzegovina next to it. Before going there, ensure your documents are prepared as instructed in our guides.

How to reach it?

By taxi:  depending on where you are leaving, from the Old Town Baščaršija until the Office, the taxi should charge you approximately 20-25 KM. The price is less the closer you are to the Office. Make sure that the taxi meter is turned on.

By trolleybus:  make sure to catch the electric bus from the centre towards Dobrinja. You’ll need to exit at the second-to-last station and walk approximately 800 meters back to the Foreign Affairs Office.

Update April 12, 2024

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Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, bosnia and herzegovina - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to  terrorism  and  land mines .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Minefields and land mines are present throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. While suspected hazardous areas are normally clearly marked, several people are killed or injured each year.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

If you decide to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina:   

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Remain on hard-surfaced roads and stay out of abandoned buildings due to risks from land mines.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Arab Emirates to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina from the United Arab Emirates?

Most visitors from the United Arab Emirates, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Arab Emirates can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without restrictions.

Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Arab Emirates can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Visitors from the United Arab Emirates are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Arab Emirates are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Mask usage in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegovina are open. Bars in Bosnia and Herzegovina are .

Bosnia and Herzegovina

VISA REGIME

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE COUNTRY Citizens of the Republic of Serbia may enter the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa, with a personal ID card or a travel document, through all border crossings open for international travel, and stay there up to 90 days as of the date of entry. Underage persons must travel with a passport.

SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT

A Social Insurance Agreement was signed between the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. This agreement relates to regulations on:

• Health insurance, healthcare and maternity,
• Pension and disability insurance,
• Insurance in case of workplace injury or professional disease,
• Financial reimbursement in case of unemployment, and
• Child allowance.

Healthcare services can be used during stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina based on a Certificate on the right to use healthcare services in another state, obtained in the Health Insurance Branch where the person is insured.

USEFUL INFORMATION

TRANSPORT —  Air Serbia, national airline of Serbia, operates regular flight routes Belgrade―Sarajevo and Belgrade―Banja Luka. The Republic of Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina are also well connected by bus lines. Major cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are connected by regular bus and train lines.

Citizens of the Republic of Serbia may drive motor vehicles within the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina on a valid new driver’s licence issued in the Republic of Serbia during their temporary stay or in transit. If citizens of the Republic of Serbia plan to regulate a longer stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, they may exchange their national driver’s licence for one issued by the relevant authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

OTHER — The currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the convertible mark (KM). Payment for goods and services in euros is not possible in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Police may be contacted by dialling 122, after the area code for a given city (e.g., Sarajevo 00 387 (0)33 122, Banja Luka 00 387 (0)51 122).

Contact information: During your stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, for consular assistance and protection you may contact: The Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Sarajevo, Obala Maka Dizdara 3a, Sarajevo, at the following telephone numbers: 00 387 33 26 00 80 and 00 387 33 26 00 90, or e-mail:  [email protected] . General Consulate of the Republic of Serbia Banja Luka, Vojvode Radomira Putnika 2, Banja Luka, at the following telephone numbers: 00 387 51 22 70 40, 00 387 51 22 70 60 or for emergency calls 00 387 51 22 70 41, or e-mail:  [email protected] . General Consulate of the Republic of Serbia Mostar, Konak 5, Mostar, at the following telephone numbers: 00 387 36 55 60 01 and 00 387 36 55 59 10, or e-mail:  [email protected] . Consular Office of the General Consulate of the Republic of Serbia in Banja Luka, with its seat in Trebinje, Njegoševa 4, Trebinje, at the following telephone numbers: +387 59 490 505, 00 387 59 49 05 06 and 00 387 59 49 05 07, or e-mail:  [email protected] . Consular Office of the General Consulate of the Republic of Serbia in Mostar, with its seat in Drvar, Titova BB, Drvar, at the following telephone numbers: 00 387 34 96 10 30 and 00 387 34 96 10 31, or e-mail:  [email protected] .

Information for drivers of foreign vehicles entering Bosnia and Herzegovina

Drivers who enter and drive on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina with vehicles that are normally based abroad, i.e. vehicles with foreign registration plates, must possess a valid international MTPL (motor third parties liability) insurance document that is valid on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Depending on the regime on which the contractual relationship between the BIH Green Card Bureau and certain national Bureaux of member countries of the "Green Card System" is based, a Green Card/IMIC is recognized as a valid international document on MTPL insurance in the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Green Card Regime) or registration plate (MA Regime).

  1.     Green Card Regime

 In the Green Card Regime, the contractual relationship between the BIH Green Card Bureau and the national Bureaux of certain member countries of the "Green Card System" is based on the existence of a valid Green Card/IMIC.

 In accordance with the current regulations and instructions of the BIH Green Card Bureau, a document known as the "Green Card/IMIC" (International Motor Insurance Card) is recognized as a valid international document on MTPL insurance for vehicles with a foreign registration plate, which can be printed on green or white paper, the largest format up to A4, which must be an independent document (e.g. independent of the MTPL insurance policy), and which must be presented in material (paper) form (electronic form is not accepted).

 Drivers of motor vehicles with registration plates from the following "Green Card System" countries must possess a valid green card/IMIC when entering and driving on the roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

1. Albania (AL),

2. Azerbaijan (AZ),

3. North Macedonia (MK),

4. Morocco (MA),

5. Moldova (MD),

6. Tunisia (TN),

7. Turkiye (TR),

8. Ukraine (UA).

 2.     Regime of the Multilateral Agreement (MA)

 In the MA Regime, the contractual relationship between the BIH Green Card Bureau and the national Bureaux of certain member countries of the "Green Card System" is based on assumed insurance coverage, and the registration plate is recognized as a valid international MTPL insurance document, so that vehicles with registration plates from countries that are signatories to the Multilateral agreements do not need to have a Green Card/IMIC.

 When entering and driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the registration plate of a vehicle from the following member states of the "Green Card System" whose Bureaux are signatories to the Multilateral Agreement is recognized as a valid international MTPL insurance document:

1.      Andorra (AND),

2.      Austria (A),

3.      Belgium (B),

4.      Bulgaria (BG),

5.      Cyprus (CY),

6.      Czech Republic (CZ),

7.      Germany (D),

8.      Denmark (DK),

9.      Spain (E),

10.  Estonia (EST),

11.  France (F),

12.  Finland (FIN),

13.  Greece (GR),

14.  Hungary (H),

15.  Croatia (HR),

16.  Italy (I),

17.  Ireland (IRL),

18.  Iceland (IS),

19.  Luxembourg (L),

20.  Lithuania (LT),

21.  Latvia (LV),

22.  Malta (M),

23.  Norway (N),

24.  The Netherlands (NL),

25.  Portugal (P),

26.  Poland (PL),

27.  Romania (RO),

28.  Sweden (S),

29.  Slovakia (SK),

30.  Slovenia (SL),

31.  Switzerland (CH),

32.  United Kingdom (UK),

33.  Serbia (SRB),

34.  Montenegro (MNE),

35.  Liechtenstein (FL),

36.  Monaco (MC),

37.  San Marino (RSM),

38.  Vatican City (V).

 The provisions of the Multilateral Agreement do not apply to certain types of vehicles - for example, agricultural machines, vehicles belonging to NATO military forces or individual military forces of certain countries, vehicles without registration plates. Most often, drivers of these vehicles present a green card/IMIC as proof of valid international insurance.

 3.     Frontier insurance

 Vehicles with registration plates of countries that are not members of the "Green Card System", e.g. The United States of America (USA), Qatar (Q), etc., as well as vehicles from member countries of the "Green Card System" but without possession of a valid international MTPL insurance document, must have a frontier insurance policy when entering and driving on the roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which covers the period of stay in the country.

 Border insurance can be concluded at the border crossing (not online) with one of the insurance companies from Bosnia and Herzegovina that deals with compulsory MTPL insurance, and a list of those can be found at the following link:

https:/www.bzkbih.ba/en/clanice

 The price of the frontier insurance premium depends on the type of vehicle and length of stay.

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UAE approves visa-free travel for Bosnia and Herzegovina

A mutual visa exemption has been agreed on between the two nations.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a stunning country with lush green landscapes, mountains, waterfalls and rivers. Yu Siang Teo / Unsplash

Travellers from Bosnia and Herzegovina can now visit the UAE visa-free.

On Monday, the two countries signed an agreement that allows visa exemptions for citizens of both nations for tourism, business and short-term visits, the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced.

The memorandum of understanding aims to facilitate and promote travel, trade and people-to-people exchanges, said the ministry. “This exemption is expected to enhance cultural understanding, foster economic growth and reinforce tourism between the two countries,” read a statement.

The agreement was signed by Reem Al Hashimy, the UAE's Minister of State for International Co-operation, and Elmedin Konakovic, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The UAE made the decision to remove the need for visas for citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina in April, after a meeting in Sarajevo between Konakovic and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs, according to local media.

Citizens of the UAE have been exempted from visa requirements when entering, exiting or travelling through Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days since 2015. The criteria includes having a passport that's valid for six months after the stay and proof of onward travel, according to the embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Abu Dhabi.

The UAE passport has consistently been named one of the world's strongest, according to the Henley Passport Index . Over the past 10 years, the UAE passport has climbed more than 40 places from 56th in 2013. It now ranks 14th as Emirati passport holders can currently travel visa-free to 179 countries.

The Bosnian passport provides visa-free access to 118 countries, according to the passport index, which ranks the country 51st.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, located on the Balkan Peninsular, gained independence in 1992 and is known for its East-meets-West setting that draws influence from Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian cultures.

It's a stunning country with lush green landscapes, mountains, waterfalls and rivers, peppered with medieval ruins, old-world towns and more modern cities that still retain plenty of character.

The nation is also incredibly ethnically diverse and is home to Perucica, one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe where the trees are hundreds of years old.

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