The Short Answer
Yes, Serbia allows dual and multiple citizenship. In most cases, you do not need to give up your existing passport to acquire Serbian citizenship. This applies to the most common pathways used by foreign nationals: citizenship by descent, citizenship by marriage, and citizenship by exception.
There is one important distinction. Foreigners applying through regular naturalization are technically required to renounce their existing citizenship under Serbian law. In practice, this requirement is applied inconsistently, and many applicants successfully retain both passports.
If you are part of the Serbian diaspora, or married to a Serbian citizen, you almost certainly qualify to hold dual citizenship without renouncing your current nationality.
Citizenship by Descent and Dual Citizenship
Citizenship by descent is the pathway most relevant to members of the Serbian diaspora, including descendants of citizens of the former Yugoslavia.
Under Serbian law, persons of Serbian origin who apply for citizenship through descent are not required to:
- Renounce their existing citizenship
- Reside in Serbia prior to the application
- Meet a minimum residency period
This makes it one of the most accessible routes to Serbian citizenship for foreign nationals. If one of your parents or grandparents was a Serbian citizen or a citizen of the former Yugoslavia, you may qualify.
For a full breakdown of requirements, see our guide to Serbian citizenship by descent.
Citizenship by Marriage and Dual Citizenship
Foreign nationals married to a Serbian citizen can also acquire Serbian citizenship without renouncing their original nationality.
To qualify through this route, you generally need to:
- Be legally married to a Serbian citizen for at least three years
- Hold permanent residency in Serbia
- Submit a declaration confirming Serbia as your country
Marriage alone does not grant citizenship automatically. You must complete the full application process and meet the residency requirement. Once approved, you are entitled to hold both citizenships simultaneously.
What About Regular Naturalization?
Regular naturalization in Serbia requires three years of permanent residency. Unlike citizenship by descent and marriage, the law formally requires applicants to renounce their foreign citizenship before naturalization is approved.
In practice, this requirement is applied unevenly. Many applicants retain their original passport after naturalizing, particularly those from countries that do not enforce renunciation on their end.
If you are considering this route, speaking with a lawyer before proceeding is strongly advisable to understand how this applies to your specific situation and home country.
Does Your Home Country Matter?
Yes. Even if Serbia permits dual citizenship, your home country’s laws determine whether you can legally hold both passports.
Countries that generally allow their citizens to hold Serbian citizenship include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Countries with stricter rules on dual nationality include Germany, Austria, China, Japan, and India. Citizens of these countries may face legal complications or be required to notify authorities when acquiring a second citizenship.
Always check the rules in your home country before starting the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Serbia allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Serbia permits dual and multiple citizenship in most cases, particularly for those acquiring citizenship by descent, by marriage, or by exception.
Can I keep my current passport if I get Serbian citizenship by descent?
Yes. Citizenship by descent does not require renunciation of your existing nationality. You can hold both passports simultaneously, with no prior residency in Serbia required.
Does Serbia require you to renounce citizenship through naturalization?
Technically yes, under Serbian law. In practice, enforcement varies. A lawyer can advise you on how this applies to your specific circumstances.
Can my spouse get Serbian citizenship without giving up their passport?
Yes. Spouses of Serbian citizens who qualify through the marriage route are not required to renounce their existing citizenship.
What if my home country does not allow dual citizenship?
Your home country’s rules take precedence on their side. Serbia will not prevent you from acquiring Serbian citizenship, but you may face consequences under your home country’s laws.
Get Legal Advice on Your Dual Citizenship Options
Dual citizenship rules can be complex, particularly when your home country has restrictions or your pathway involves naturalization. Our team of English-speaking Serbian lawyers can review your situation and advise you on the best route forward.
Written and reviewed by Milica Jeremic
Serbian immigration lawyer – Lawyer Serbia
Practising Serbian immigration law since 2015
