How to get a job in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a Foreigner

Bosnia and Herzegovina is an emerging job market with growing opportunities for foreign workers in the tourism, construction, healthcare, IT, and manufacturing sectors. If you are a foreigner looking to work in Bosnia and Herzegovina, understanding the local job market, work permit requirements and visa procedures is essential. This guide will cover everything you need to know about finding a job in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a foreigner.

Why Work in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a relatively low cost of living and a developing economy with increasing demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers. Here’s why you should consider working in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

1. Growing Job Market—The construction, tourism, IT, and healthcare sectors are expanding rapidly.
2. Strategic Location—Bosnia and Herzegovina is located in the heart of the Balkans, providing access to Eastern and Western Europe.
3. Affordable living costs are lower than in most European countries.
4. Work Opportunities for Foreigners— Skilled and semi-skilled workers are in demand, especially in healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing.

Types of Jobs Available for Foreigners in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Here are the most common industries hiring foreign workers:

1. Construction

• Construction workers
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Engineers

2. Healthcare

• Nurses
• Caregivers
• Medical Technicians
• Hospital support staff

3. Tourism and Hospitality

• Hotel staff
• Tour guides
• Restaurant workers
• Chefs

4. Information Technology (IT)

• Software developers
• IT support technicians
• Cybersecurity specialists
• Network engineers

5. Manufacturing

• Factory workers
• Quality controllers
• Assembly line workers

6. Education

• English teachers
• Language instructors
• University lecturers

Eligibility to Work in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a Foreigner

To work legally in Bosnia and Herzegovina, foreign nationals typically need:

1. Valid Work Permit—Issued by the employer or the local employment authority.
2. Visa (if applicable) – Depending on the applicant's nationality.
3. Residence Permit—Required for long-term work and stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
4. Health Insurance—Proof of valid health insurance coverage.
5. Qualifications and Skills—Some positions may require relevant degrees, certifications, or work experience.

How to Find a Job in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a Foreigner

 1. Online Job Portals

Many companies post job openings on popular job search websites. Top job portals in Bosnia and Herzegovina include:

• Posao.ba—Leading job site in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• MojPosao.ba features job listings from various industries
• Indeed—International job portal with listings in Bosnia

 2. Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies can help connect you with employers and assist with the work permit process. Top agencies include:

• Manpower Bosnia
• Adecco

3. Company Websites

Many large employers in Bosnia and Herzegovina post job openings directly on their websites. It’s worth checking company career pages.

 4. Networking

Personal connections and professional networking through platforms like LinkedIn can help you find job opportunities and referrals.

 5. Job Fairs and Expos

Attending job fairs allows you to meet potential employers and explore available job opportunities.

Work Permit for Foreigners in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Types of Work Permits:

1. Work Permit for Employment—Issued to foreign nationals for regular employment.
2. Seasonal Work Permit—For short-term seasonal jobs (e.g., tourism, agriculture).
3. Intra-Company Transfer Permit—For foreign nationals working in a branch of an international company.

Required Documents for a Work Permit:

To apply for a work permit, you generally need:

1. Completed work permit application form
2. Valid passport
3. Job offer from a Bosnian employer
4. Proof of education and professional qualifications
5. Health insurance certificate
6. Payment of work permit fee

Who Applies for the Work Permit?

• The employer is responsible for applying for the work permit on behalf of the employee.
• Work permits are usually valid for one year and can be renewed.

Visa Requirements for Working in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Foreign nationals from non-EU countries usually need a visa to work in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Types of Work Visas:

1. Work Visa (Type D) – For long-term employment
2. Seasonal Work Visa—For seasonal employment

Documents Required for a Work Visa:

1. Completed visa application form
2. Valid passport
3. Work permit approval
4. Proof of accommodation
5. Health insurance
6. Financial proof of self-sufficiency

Cost of Living in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The cost of living in Bosnia and Herzegovina is affordable compared to other European countries.

Housing:

• Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: €250 – €500
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water): €100 – €150

Food:

• Average meal at a restaurant: €5 – €10
• Monthly groceries: €150 – €300

Transportation:

• Monthly public transport pass: €25 – €40
• Taxi fare (per km): €0.50 – €1.00

Average Salary in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The average salary in Bosnia and Herzegovina varies by industry and job type:

Language Requirements for Working in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Knowing Bosnian, Serbian, or Croatian is an advantage, especially for customer-facing roles.
• English is widely used in business, IT, and tourism sectors.
• Some employers may require language proficiency certificates.

Taxes and Social Contributions

Foreign workers are subject to the same tax regulations as Bosnian citizens:

• Income Tax: 10%
• Social Security Contributions: 31% (employer pays 24%, employee pays 7%)

Challenges for Foreigners Working in Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. Language barrier—Bosnian, Serbian, and Croatian are widely spoken.
2. Strict work permit process—Non-EU nationals face a longer permit processing time.
3. Limited job market—The job market is smaller than in Western Europe.

Tips for Finding a Job in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Improve your language skills (Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian)
• Tailor your CV to the Bosnian job market format
• Highlight relevant experience and qualifications
• Use LinkedIn and other professional networks
• Consider working with a recruitment agency

Conclusion

Working in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a foreigner is possible with the right qualifications and work permit. By targeting high-demand industries, improving your language skills, and understanding the work permit process, you can increase your chances of securing a job. If you need professional assistance with finding a job and securing a work permit, contact AtoZ Serwis Plus for expert guidance.

Would you like to explore job openings or need help with the visa process? Contact AtoZ Serwis Plus today!

FAQs on How to Get a Job in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a Foreigner

1. Can foreigners work in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, foreigners can work in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but they need to obtain a work permit and a residence permit unless they are from countries that have special agreements with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

2. What types of jobs are available for foreigners in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Foreigners can find jobs in sectors such as:

• Healthcare (nurses, caregivers)
• Construction (bricklayers, electricians)
• IT (software developers, engineers)
• Tourism and hospitality (hotel staff, chefs)
• Manufacturing (factory workers, machine operators)

3. How can I find a job in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a foreigner?

You can search for jobs through:

• Online job portals like Posao.ba and MojPosao.ba
• Recruitment agencies
• LinkedIn and other professional networks
• Direct applications to companies

4. Do foreigners need a work permit to work in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, non-EU and non-EEA citizens need a valid work permit before starting work in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

5. What are the requirements to apply for a work permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

To apply for a work permit, you typically need:

• A valid passport
• A job offer from a Bosnian employer
• Proof of qualifications and work experience
• Health insurance
• Work permit application form and fee payment

6. How long does it take to process a work permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

It usually takes 30 to 60 days to process a work permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, depending on the complexity of the application.

7. Can I work in Bosnia and Herzegovina without knowing the local language?

Yes, but speaking Bosnian, Serbian, or Croatian improves your chances of getting hired, especially in customer-facing roles. English-speaking jobs are more common in the IT, business, and tourism sectors.

8. What is the average salary for foreigners in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The average salary depends on the industry:

• IT—€1,500—€3,000 per month
• Healthcare—€800–€1,500 per month
• Construction—€600–€1,200 per month
• Hospitality—€400–€800 per month

9. Can I change jobs with the same work permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No, work permits in Bosnia and Herzegovina are employer-specific. If you want to change jobs, you need to apply for a new work permit.

10. Can I apply for permanent residency after working in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, after living and working legally in Bosnia and Herzegovina for 5 continuous years, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.