Serbia: Authorities to slightly ease domestic COVID-19-related restrictions May 7 /update 29

Event

Authorities in Serbia will slightly ease certain domestic COVID-19-related restrictions following a decrease in infection rates. Effective May 7, catering establishments will be allowed to reopen their indoor areas; restaurants are permitted to reopen their outdoor areas.

As of May 6, other restrictions have remained largely unchanged since mid-April. Most nonessential businesses and services are permitted to reopen but are subject to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Gatherings of more than five people remain prohibited and facemasks are mandatory in all enclosed public spaces and outdoor spaces where social distancing of at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) cannot be observed.

Additionally, certain entry restrictions remain in force for international travelers. Upon arrival, all incoming travelers must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival; travelers arriving from the US may present a negative result from a rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival instead of a negative PCR test result. Serbian nationals and residents who enter the country without a negative test result must undergo a 10-day self-isolation period instead. All travelers from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Hungary, and Montenegro, as well as foreign nationals transiting through Serbia, freight transporters, and aircraft crews, are exempt from entry restrictions.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Local authorities are empowered to introduce stricter measures within their jurisdictions if infection rates warrant.

Advice

Heed all official advisories and remain nonconfrontational if stopped by authorities. Reconfirm all travel arrangements if traveling to, from, or via Serbia. Shipping disruptions may occur; consider delaying or rerouting shipments. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19.

Resources

Government of Serbia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Detailed Entry Requirements
World Health Organization (WHO)