Serbia

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly, particularly in response to new variants of concern. Should you decide to travel overseas at this time, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses. Talk to your insurer about how sudden changes to the international travel environment might affect your insurance.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
Travellers to New Zealand may be required to enter government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). The length of your stay in MIQ may depend on where you are travelling from. Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
Most travellers must have a negative pre-departure test result and approved documentation to enter New Zealand. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

Serbia

Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur from time to time in Serbia, particularly in major towns and cities like Belgrade, and occasional unrest along the border with Kosovo remains possible. These can cause major traffic delays and disruptions.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. New Zealanders are also advised to maintain a high degree of personal security awareness and monitor local developments closely by following media sources, and any instructions from local authorities.

Terrorism
There is an underlying threat of terrorism in Serbia. Terrorist groups, including those based in Syria and Iraq, have made threats to conduct attacks across Europe.

New Zealanders in Serbia are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places. 

Landmines
Unexploded land mines and munitions left over from the 1999 conflict remain along the border with Kosovo and in southern Serbia. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all off-road travel in these areas and stay on clearly marked paths.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing occurs in Serbia and is common in tourist areas, in larger cities and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery.

General Travel Advice
The security situation along the Kosovo-Serbia border is unpredictable. Foreign nationals have been denied entry into Serbia if they have Republic of Kosovo stamps in their passports. Enhanced border controls are in place, and border crossings may be closed at short notice.

New Zealanders are advised to carry photo identification, or a photocopy of their passport, with them at all times and produce this if asked by authorities.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Serbia should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Serbia are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

The New Zealand Embassy Rome, Italy is accredited to Serbia

Street Address Via Clitunno, 44, 00198 Rome, Italy Telephone +39 06 853 7501 Fax +39 06 440 2984 Email rome@nzembassy.it Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/italy Hours Mon- Fri 0830-1230 and 1330-1700

See our regional advice for Europe

MIL OSI