Tax Advantages and Benefits of Investing in Serbia and Montenegro

1. Low Corporate Tax

  • Serbia has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe: 15%.

  • There are no regional or municipal surcharges as in Spain.

  • Businesses can deduct many expenses (rent, services, travel, consultancy, etc.).

2. Partial or Total Exemption for New Companies

  • Startups and new foreign investments may receive tax exemptions of up to 10 years in certain municipalities.

  • Special Economic Zones offer temporary reductions or elimination of profit tax.

3. Dividend and Withholding Taxes

  • Dividend tax: 15%, which can be reduced to 0–5% under double taxation treaties (Serbia has agreements with Spain and over 60 countries).

  • No additional tax on repatriated profits.

4. Low Labor Costs and Reduced Contributions

  • Average salaries are much lower than in Western Europe, reducing personnel costs.

  • Total social contributions are around 37%, much lower than Spain’s (over 45%).

  • Incentives exist for hiring local staff, especially young or tech professionals.

5. Stable and Favorable Regime for Foreigners

  • Serbia allows 100% foreign ownership of local companies (DOO or SRL).

  • Possible to open business and personal bank accounts without prior residence (with proper guidance).

  • No restrictive currency controls: funds can be moved freely to and from the EU.

6. Strategic Location and Trade Agreements

  • Although not part of the EU, Serbia has free trade agreements with:

    • The European Union (duty-free exports on many products).

    • Russia, Turkey, China, EFTA, and CEFTA countries.
      This allows companies to sell to multiple markets without paying customs duties.

7. Moderate Income Tax

  • 10% for self-employed or small businesses, with options for direct or lump-sum taxation.

  • Personal dividends and profits taxed at a flat 15%, significantly lower than Spain’s income tax.

8. International Tax Optimization

  • Serbia is not a tax haven, but offers a transparent and efficient fiscal environment.

  • Ideal for those seeking to legally and sustainably reduce their tax burden with a solid legal framework.

9. Support for Foreign Investment

  • The Serbian government offers grants and financial support for investments in technology, manufacturing, tourism, or energy.

  • Possibility of obtaining legal residency through investment or company creation, without the need for large initial capital.

10. Advantageous Tax Residency

  • Residents in Serbia can be taxed at 10–15% on worldwide income — instead of the much higher rates in Spain.

  • Serbia does not tax wealth, inheritances, or international donations.