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Setting Up a Subsidiary in Serbia: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Learn the steps to set up a subsidiary in Serbia, from choosing a company type to registering and understanding local laws. Start your business expansion smoothly!

04.09.24.

14 minutes

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Setting Up a Subsidiary in Serbia

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Introduction

Starting a subsidiary in Serbia is a smart move for companies wanting to expand. Serbia stands out as a top country for business growth. It ranks 44th in ease of doing business, indicating it outperforms many other countries. This high ranking suggests that both starting and managing a business in Serbia are easier than in many other places.

Serbia is full of opportunities across various sectors. Whether you are in manufacturing, IT, or services, you can find good chances to succeed here. The country's location in Europe also makes it a central spot for reaching other European markets easily. This can be very helpful for businesses that want to spread their reach.

The government in Serbia supports new businesses. They offer help like tax benefits and funding supports. This makes Serbia not just a place with good policies but also a welcoming place for new businesses. Companies coming to Serbia find it cost-effective because of lower operational costs. This includes cheaper labor which can make a big difference in managing a budget. Setting up a subsidiary here means taking a smart step towards growth in a supportive environment

  • What is a Subsidiary?
    A subsidiary is a company that is part of a bigger company. It is not completely separate because the bigger company owns most or all of it. In Serbia, this setup allows the main company to control its operations while benefiting from Serbia's business-friendly environment.


Benefits of Setting Up a Subsidiary in Serbia

Starting a subsidiary in Serbia brings many benefits. Here's why it's a good choice:

  1. High Ranking for Ease of Doing Business:
    Serbia ranked 44th in the World Bank's ease of doing business report in 2020. This means the country has strong laws and systems that make business operations smooth.
  2. Ownership Freedom:
    You can fully own your subsidiary in Serbia. There are no rules stopping foreign businesses from owning their company here.
  3. Attractive Labor Market:
    Serbia has a lot of skilled workers but lower wage demands. This makes hiring both easier and more cost-effective.
  4. Tax Benefits:
    Serbia offers great tax advantages. For example, if you hire more than 100 employees, you won’t have to pay Corporate Profit Tax for 10 years.
  5. No Incorporation Limits:
    There are no restrictions on setting up your company in Serbia. You can start your business quickly and easily.
  6. Location Benefits:
    Serbia is in the heart of Europe. This makes it easy to connect with other European markets, which is great for business growth.
  7. Government Support:
    The Serbian government is very supportive of foreign investment. They offer many incentives like tax relief and grants to help your business succeed.
  8. Economic Stability:
    Serbia's economy is stable, growing, and integrated with the rest of Europe. This makes it a safe place for investment.
  9. Access to Markets:
    Serbia has free trade agreements with many countries. This means you can sell to a larger market without extra taxes.

These points show why Serbia is a top choice for businesses looking to expand. It's not just about the cost savings. It's also about the support and opportunities Serbia offers. Setting up here could help your business grow in many ways.

Understanding Serbia's Subsidiary Laws

Setting up a subsidiary in Serbia means you need to know about local laws. These laws help make sure your business runs smoothly and legally. Here are some key points:

  • Company Types: Serbia allows different types of company structures. You can choose from options like limited liability companies (DOO), joint-stock companies (AD), and more. Each type has its own rules.
  • Registration Process: Every new company must register with the Serbian Business Registers Agency. This process helps you become officially recognized as a business in Serbia.
  • Tax Compliance: Companies in Serbia must follow specific tax laws. For example, if you employ more than 100 people, your subsidiary could be exempt from corporate profit tax for up to ten years. This is a big saving!
  • Employment Rules: Serbian law protects workers. As a business, you must ensure fair pay and safe working conditions. This is good for your workers and good for your business.
  • Reporting Requirements: Companies must keep accurate financial records. You need to report your earnings and expenses regularly. This is important for tax purposes and keeping your business transparent.
  • Local and International Standards: Serbia's laws align with both local and international business standards. This makes it easier to operate both in Serbia and with other countries.

By knowing these laws, you can ensure your subsidiary operates without legal troubles. This knowledge also helps in planning your business activities in Serbia. Following these rules keeps your business safe and respected in the market.

Serbia's Subsidiary Laws for Banks and Insurance Companies

Serbia has specific laws for banks and insurance companies that want to set up subsidiaries. These laws help make sure that these businesses work in a safe and proper way. Here are the main points you need to know:

  1. Licensing:
    • Banks and insurance companies must get a license from the National Bank of Serbia before they start working. This is important to ensure they follow the rules.
    • The process includes checking the financial health and the background of the company.
  2. Capital Requirements:
    • Banks need to have a minimum amount of money set aside. This is to make sure they can cover their activities without risk.
    • Insurance companies also need to show they have enough money to pay for risks they cover.
  3. Reporting:
    • These companies must report their finances regularly. This is to show they are still healthy and following the rules.
    • They report to the National Bank of Serbia and other government bodies.
  4. Management:
    • The top people running these companies must meet certain standards. They need to have experience and be trustworthy.
    • This rule helps make sure that the companies are run well.
  5. Consumer Protection:
    • Banks and insurance companies must treat their customers fairly.
    • There are laws to protect customers, like making sure they get clear information about services.

These rules help keep the banking and insurance sectors in Serbia safe and reliable. They make sure that the companies have enough money, are run by good people, and treat customers right. This is good for everyone.

Steps to Establish a Subsidiary in Serbia

Two men reviewing a document.

Here are the detailed steps to establish a subsidiary in Serbia, which can help you set up your business smoothly:

  1. Choose the Type of Subsidiary:
    According to the Companies Law of the Republic of Serbia, you can choose from several legal forms for your business entity:
    • Entrepreneur (Preduzetnik): This is suitable for individual business owners.
    • Limited Liability Company (Društvo sa ograničenom odgovornošću - DOO): Ideal for small to medium businesses, it limits the owners' financial risks.
    • Partnership Company (Ortačko društvo - OD): This form is for businesses owned by two or more people who share profits and responsibilities.
    • Limited Partnership Company (Komanditno društvo - KD): Similar to a partnership, but with one or more partners having limited liability.
    • Joint-Stock Company (Akcionarsko društvo - AD): Best for larger companies, allows selling shares to the public.
  2. Register Your Business:
    • Name Your Subsidiary: Choose a unique name that’s not used by another company.
    • Legal Address: You must have a registered address in Serbia.
    • Registration Process: File your business with the Serbian Business Registers Agency. This includes:
      • Submitting a registration form.
      • Providing identification for the company directors.
      • Paying the required registration fee.
  3. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits:
    To operate legally, gather all necessary documents and apply for the right licenses. These documents typically include:
    • Registration Application: A form signed by an authorized representative to register the LLC and enter into the Register of Taxpayers.
    • Members’ Proof of Identity: IDs of all the company's founders or members.
    • Memorandum of Association: Must have certified signatures of all founders or members.
    • Proof of Payment: Receipts for paid registration fees for the LLC.
  4. Set Up Your Finances:
    • Open a Bank Account: Open a local bank account in Serbia for business transactions.
    • Plan Financially: Establish a funding strategy and budget for your operations in Serbia, considering all potential financial obligations, including taxes and salaries.
  5. Comply with Local Laws:
    • Employ Employment Laws: Understand and follow Serbian laws on hiring and managing employees to ensure legal compliance.
    • Meet Tax Obligations: Be aware of and adhere to all tax requirements, which might include income tax and corporate tax, ensuring your business operates within legal financial frameworks.

Following these steps will make setting up a subsidiary in Serbia smoother. Serbia offers a business-friendly environment and a strategic spot in Europe. This location can help your company grow.

How Teamcubate Can Help You Start a Subsidiary in Serbia

Setting up a subsidiary in Serbia is a big step for your business. Teamcubate is here to make this process easier and more successful. Here’s how we can help:

Expert Guidance
  • Our business growth experts know all about starting a business in Serbia. They understand the local laws and business environment. They can guide you through each step, from choosing the right business form to handling legal requirements.
Free Consultation Meeting
  • You can talk to one of our experts for free. This meeting is very helpful. Many business owners have used it to learn how to expand their business without making costly mistakes.
Continuous Support
  • Once your subsidiary is set up, our support doesn’t stop. We stay with you to make sure your business grows well. We help solve any problems you might face.

Contact one of our business growth experts today. Start your business journey in Serbia with the right help and confidence.

Starting Your Office in Serbia's Main Cities with Teamcubate's Help

A view of Belgrade.

Serbia has three main cities where you can set up an office: Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Niš. Each city has its own benefits for your business. Belgrade is the largest and most connected, perfect for companies needing many flights and big business networks. Novi Sad is known for its vibrant tech community and is quieter and less costly. Niš offers the lowest operational costs and has a strong academic background in tech fields.

Here's how Teamcubate can help you set up your office in these cities:

  • Choose the Right City: We help you pick the city that matches your business needs. We know the pros and cons of each place.
  • Handle the Paperwork: We guide you through the whole process of registering your company. We make sure you have all the documents you need.
  • Find the Best Talent: We connect you to skilled developers and other professionals in Serbia. We help you build a strong team.

Setting up in Serbia can help your business grow. With Teamcubate, you can do it without stress. We know the local rules and the best ways to get things done. Contact Teamcubate to start your business in Serbia with confidence.

Setting Up an Office in Belgrade

Belgrade is a great city to set up an office if you need developers. It is the capital of Serbia and has many talented people. The city is known for its strong IT community. Here, you can find developers who are skilled and ready to work on various projects. Setting up an office in Belgrade means you are in the heart of Serbia’s tech scene.

The process of opening an office here is straightforward. You need to register your business first. Then you find a good place for your office. Belgrade has many areas where tech companies like to set up. Prices for office spaces are reasonable compared to other European cities. This makes Belgrade a cost-effective choice.

Once your office is ready, hiring developers is the next step. There are many universities and tech schools in Belgrade. They prepare students well for jobs in tech. This means you can hire fresh graduates who are eager to start their careers. There are also many experienced developers looking for new opportunities.

By setting up your office in Belgrade, you join a growing community of tech businesses. This community is supportive and full of opportunities. Your business can grow, and you can find all the tech talent you need right here in Belgrade.

Setting Up an Office in Novi Sad

Novi Sad is a great city for setting up an office if you need developers. It is smaller than Belgrade but offers many good things. Novi Sad has a strong tech scene. It has big tech events and many schools that teach technology. This makes it easy to find smart developers.

When thinking about Novi Sad and other cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, you can see good and not-so-good points. Novi Sad is quieter and smaller. Many people like this because there is less traffic and things cost less. The price for office space is also lower here. This makes it cheaper to run a business.

But Novi Sad has fewer tech events than a big city like Belgrade. Belgrade also has more flights to other places, which can be important for business. Novi Sad has a smaller airport with fewer flights.

Overall, Novi Sad is a good place if you want a peaceful, cheaper place to work. It has a growing tech community. Your business can find all the tech talent it needs right here.

Setting Up an Office in Niš

Niš is a good place for setting up an office, especially for tech companies. It is one of the main cities in Serbia. It offers many good things for businesses. Niš has schools that are great in teaching electronics and mechanics. This means you can find smart people to work in tech jobs.

If you think about Niš compared to Belgrade and Novi Sad, it has its good and not-so-good sides. The best thing about Niš is it costs less to live and work there. The money you need for an office and to pay people is less than in bigger cities. This helps you spend less money.

But there are some downsides too. Niš is smaller and not as well-connected by flights like Belgrade. This can be hard if you need to travel a lot. Niš also has fewer tech meetings and fewer chances to meet other tech people.

Still, Niš is a friendly place for new and growing businesses. It's a calm city, and people are welcoming. If you set up your business here, you can find good workers and save money. This makes Niš a smart choice for your business in Serbia.

Setting Up an Office in Kragujevac

Kragujevac is a smart choice for setting up an office. It is the fourth biggest city in Serbia. This city can be a great choice for your business because it has many good points.

Kragujevac has lower living costs and business costs than Belgrade. This means you can find cheaper office spaces and pay less for things. The city has schools that teach many students. These students can work for you after they graduate.

But there are some hard parts about Kragujevac. It does not have as many flights to other big cities as Belgrade has. This can make travel harder for your business. Kragujevac also does not have as many tech people and events as Niš has.

In all, Kragujevac is a quiet place that costs less. It is good for new businesses. It has enough skilled people to work. But it is not as busy as bigger cities. This is important to think about when you choose where to set up.

FAQ

Building in the Belgrade Waterfront.

When thinking about setting up a subsidiary in Serbia, you might have some questions. Here are answers to some common questions that we haven't covered yet:

  1. Can foreign companies own land in Serbia?
    Yes, foreign companies can own land in Serbia. This makes it easier to build or expand an office.
  2. What is the average time to set up a subsidiary in Serbia?
    It usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks to set up a subsidiary. This depends on how quickly you gather and submit all required documents.
  3. Are there any specific industries where Serbia offers more benefits?
    Yes, Serbia offers extra benefits in tech, agriculture, and energy sectors. The government provides incentives like tax relief and grants to businesses in these areas.
  4. How does Serbia protect foreign investors?
    Serbia has laws that protect all business owners, including foreigners. These laws make sure that your investment is safe.
  5. What language do business documents need to be in?
    All business documents need to be in Serbian. You might need to translate your documents from English to Serbian.
  6. Is there any support for startups in Serbia?
    Yes, Serbia has many programs to support startups. These include funding, mentorship, and resources to help you grow.

These questions and answers can help you understand more about setting up a subsidiary in Serbia. If you have more questions, feel free to contact one of Teamcubate's business growth experts. They can give you more information and help you make the right decisions for your business.

Conclusion: Why Setting Up a Subsidiary in Serbia is a Smart Move

Setting up a subsidiary in Serbia offers many benefits. This article has shown you the steps, the laws, and the advantages of choosing cities like Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac. Each city has its own perks, from lower costs to a pool of skilled workers. The laws in Serbia are clear and help protect your business while ensuring it operates smoothly.

Choosing Serbia for your subsidiary means you are looking at a future where your business can grow. This country's strategic location in Europe and its business-friendly environment make it an ideal place for expansion. The Serbian government supports foreign investment, which can be very helpful as you build and grow your business.

If you think Serbia might be the right place for your subsidiary, why not talk to an expert? Teamcubate's business growth experts are here to help. You can meet with one of our experts for free. This meeting can help you understand how to expand your business in Serbia without making costly mistakes. Many people have found these meetings very helpful. They learn what steps to take next and how to make their business stronger.

Contact Teamcubate today to learn more about setting up your subsidiary in Serbia. Let us help you make the right moves for your business's future.

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