Bosnia and Herzegovina Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomes millions of visitors each year to experience its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. The country maintains a relatively open visa policy, with citizens of many countries able to enter visa-free for tourism purposes. Entry requirements vary depending on nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. The immigration process in Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally straightforward for most travelers. Upon arrival at international airports in Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Mostar, or Tuzla, or at land border crossings, visitors will present their travel documents to border police for inspection and stamping. The country has two political entities - the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska - but there are no internal borders, and entry requirements are uniform throughout the country. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date from Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's essential to verify current entry requirements before travel, as visa policies can change, and additional health-related requirements may be implemented. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Area, so separate entry requirements apply even for those holding Schengen visas.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Bosnia and Herzegovina offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for short-term stays. The visa policy is designed to facilitate tourism and business visits while maintaining border security. Requirements depend primarily on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit.

Visa-Free Entry

90 days within a 6-month period

Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

All European Union member states United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Israel Turkey Serbia Montenegro North Macedonia Albania Norway Switzerland Iceland Andorra Monaco San Marino Vatican City Argentina Brazil Chile Mexico Malaysia Singapore Brunei United Arab Emirates

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure date. Holders of valid Schengen visas or residence permits can also enter visa-free for up to 7 days or for the duration of their Schengen visa validity, whichever is shorter. Time spent in Bosnia and Herzegovina does not count toward the 90/180 day Schengen calculation.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

N/A

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not currently operate an electronic visa or ETA system

How to Apply: Not applicable - Bosnia and Herzegovina does not offer eVisas at this time
Cost: N/A

Travelers requiring visas must apply through traditional embassy/consulate channels. Some online services claim to offer Bosnia and Herzegovina eVisas, but these are not official government services.

Visa Required

Typically 90 days for tourist visas, depending on visa type issued

Citizens of countries not listed under visa-free entry must obtain a visa before traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Applications typically require a completed visa application form, valid passport, passport photos, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds, and a cover letter explaining the purpose of visit. Processing time is usually 5-15 business days but can vary.

Citizens of India, China, Russia, and many African and Asian countries require visas. Holders of diplomatic or service passports may have different requirements. Transit passengers not leaving the airport international zone typically do not need a visa for stays under 24 hours.

Arrival Process

The entry process into Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally efficient and straightforward. Whether arriving by air at one of the international airports or by land from neighboring countries (Croatia, Serbia, or Montenegro), travelers should be prepared to present required documents and answer basic questions about their visit. Border officials are professional, and most speak English at major entry points.

Document Check

Present your passport and any required visa to the border police officer. They will verify the validity of your documents and check that you meet entry requirements.

Immigration Questions

The officer may ask questions about the purpose of your visit, intended length of stay, accommodation details, and your return travel plans. Answer clearly and honestly.

Passport Stamping

Upon approval, your passport will be stamped with an entry stamp showing the date of entry. Keep this stamp legible as you'll need to show it when exiting the country.

Customs Declaration

If you have items to declare or are carrying amounts exceeding duty-free allowances, proceed through the red customs channel. Otherwise, use the green channel (nothing to declare).

Baggage Collection and Exit

Collect your luggage if arriving by air, and proceed to the exit. Random customs inspections may occur.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Should have at least one blank page for entry/exit stamps.

Visa (if required)

Citizens of countries requiring visas must have a valid visa sticker in their passport before arrival. Visas on arrival are not available.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host. May be requested at border control, especially for longer stays.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Bosnia and Herzegovina within the allowed period. Can be flight, bus, or train ticket.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence that you can support yourself during your stay. Credit cards, bank statements, or cash may be requested, though this is rarely checked for short tourist visits.

Travel Insurance

While not always mandatory for visa-free travelers, comprehensive travel and health insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for visa applications.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the immigration counter to speed up the process.

Keep digital and physical copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance, accommodation bookings) in case of loss or theft.

Ensure your entry stamp is clear and legible - you'll need to show it when exiting. If the stamp is unclear, politely ask the officer to re-stamp.

Register your stay with local police if staying in private accommodation (not hotels) within 48 hours of arrival. Hotels typically handle this automatically.

Keep your passport safe throughout your stay as you'll need it for hotel check-ins, currency exchange, and departure.

Land border crossings can be busy during summer months and holidays. Allow extra time, especially when crossing from Croatia.

If entering from Serbia or Montenegro, ensure you have all necessary stamps as these are non-EU borders and proper documentation is essential.

Customs & Duty-Free

Bosnia and Herzegovina customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal imports while allowing travelers to bring reasonable personal items. Understanding duty-free allowances and prohibited items will help ensure a smooth customs clearance process. Declare all items that exceed allowances or require declaration to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits (over 22% alcohol) OR 2 liters of wine or beer

Only for travelers aged 18 and over. Amounts exceeding this limit are subject to customs duty.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 250 grams of tobacco

Only for travelers aged 18 and over. Combination of products is allowed but total must not exceed allowance equivalent.

Currency

Amounts exceeding 10,000 EUR (or equivalent in other currencies) must be declared

This applies to cash, checks, traveler's checks, and other monetary instruments. No limit on amount that can be brought in, but declaration is mandatory above this threshold. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and fines.

Gifts/Goods

Personal goods and gifts up to 300 BAM (approximately 150 EUR) in value

Items clearly for personal use during the trip are generally exempt. New items in commercial quantities may be questioned. Receipts may be requested for valuable items.

Perfume

50 grams of perfume and 0.25 liters of eau de toilette

For personal use only. Commercial quantities require declaration and may incur duties.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - strict penalties including imprisonment apply
Weapons and ammunition - unless proper permits obtained in advance from authorities
Explosives and fireworks - security threat, strictly forbidden
Counterfeit goods and pirated media - intellectual property violations
Endangered species and products - protected under CITES regulations
Pornographic materials - particularly those involving minors
Hazardous materials - certain chemicals and toxic substances
Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries - animal health regulations (with some exceptions for small personal quantities)

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only what's needed for your trip with original prescriptions and doctor's letter, especially for controlled substances
Cultural artifacts and antiques - export of items of cultural significance requires special permits from the Ministry of Culture
Plants and plant products - phytosanitary certificates may be required
Live animals and pets - require health certificates, vaccination records, and microchipping (see special situations section)
Professional equipment - cameras, laptops, and other professional gear should be declared to avoid issues when departing
Drones - require special permission from aviation authorities for operation

Health Requirements

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not impose mandatory vaccination requirements for most travelers. However, ensuring you are up to date with routine vaccinations and taking appropriate health precautions will help ensure a safe and healthy visit. Health insurance is strongly recommended as medical costs for foreigners can be significant.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - only required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Certificate must be presented at border control.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure you are current on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - recommended for most travelers as contamination can occur through food or water
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have contact with blood or body fluids, or for longer stays
Rabies - consider for travelers who might have contact with animals, especially in rural areas
Tick-borne Encephalitis - recommended for travelers planning extensive outdoor activities in forested areas, particularly spring through autumn

Health Insurance

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not have reciprocal healthcare agreements with most countries. Comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical treatment and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended for all travelers. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may receive some coverage, but private insurance is still advisable. Ensure your insurance covers COVID-19 related medical care if applicable. Medical facilities in major cities are adequate, but serious conditions may require evacuation to neighboring countries.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 entry requirements have been lifted as of 2023, but health regulations can change rapidly. Check the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina and your departure country's travel advisory for the latest health-related entry requirements before traveling. Some countries may require proof of vaccination or testing for return travel. Masks may still be required in healthcare facilities.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Bosnia and Herzegovina for citizen services and emergency assistance

Major embassies are located in Sarajevo. Register with your embassy if planning an extended stay. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure.

Immigration Authority

Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina - Service for Foreigners' Affairs handles visa and immigration matters

For visa applications, extensions, and official immigration information, contact the nearest Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or the Ministry of Security website

Emergency Services

Dial 112 for all emergencies (police, ambulance, fire)

112 is the universal emergency number throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Operators may speak English. Specific services: Police 122, Fire 123, Ambulance 124

Tourist Police

Special tourist police units operate in major tourist areas and can assist with issues affecting visitors

In Sarajevo, tourist police can be reached through the main emergency number or at tourist information centers

Border Police

Border Police of Bosnia and Herzegovina manages all border crossings and entry/exit procedures

For questions about entry requirements or border crossing issues, contact through the Ministry of Security

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina; they cannot be included on a parent's passport. Minors (under 18) traveling alone or with only one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) or legal guardian, authorizing the travel. This letter should include contact information and be in English or translated to Bosnian. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. Birth certificates may also be requested. These requirements are strictly enforced to prevent child abduction.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Bosnia and Herzegovina must have a microchip for identification. Dogs and cats require a valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 21 days before travel but not more than one year prior). A veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is required, confirming the animal is healthy and fit to travel. EU Pet Passports are accepted. Treatment for tapeworm (for dogs) may be required if arriving from certain countries. Dangerous dog breeds may face restrictions. Birds and other animals have additional requirements. Contact the Veterinary Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina for specific regulations. Airlines have their own pet travel policies.

Extended Stays

Tourist visits are limited to 90 days within a 6-month period for visa-free nationals. For stays exceeding this period, you must apply for a temporary residence permit through the Service for Foreigners' Affairs before your authorized stay expires. Purposes for extended stays include work, study, family reunification, or retirement. Requirements vary by purpose but generally include proof of accommodation, financial means, health insurance, and criminal background check. Work permits require a job offer from a Bosnia and Herzegovina employer. Student visas require acceptance from a recognized educational institution. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. Start the extension or residence permit process well before your initial authorization expires.

Business Travelers

Visa-free travelers can conduct business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, and negotiations during their 90-day stay without a work permit. However, gainful employment or long-term contracts require a work permit and residence authorization. Bring invitation letters from Bosnia and Herzegovina business partners, conference registration, or other documentation proving business purpose. Business travelers may be asked to show these documents at border control. If establishing a business or working long-term, consult with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations and obtain proper work authorization.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Bosnia and Herzegovina airports without leaving the international zone do not need a visa for stays under 24 hours, regardless of nationality. If you need to collect luggage, change airports, or leave the airport, normal entry requirements apply. Ensure you have valid documents for your final destination. If transiting by land through Bosnia and Herzegovina to another country, you must meet entry requirements even for short stays, as there are no transit corridors.

Dual Nationals

Bosnia and Herzegovina recognizes dual citizenship. Dual nationals should enter and exit Bosnia and Herzegovina using their Bosnian passport if they hold one. Using a foreign passport when you also hold Bosnian citizenship may cause complications. If you have citizenship questions, contact the Ministry of Civil Affairs or a Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy.

Visitors with Criminal Records

Bosnia and Herzegovina may deny entry to individuals with criminal records, particularly for serious crimes. There is no automatic ban, but immigration officers have discretion. If you have a criminal record and are applying for a visa, you may need to provide a police certificate. Visa-free travelers are not required to declare criminal history but may be denied entry if discovered. Be honest if asked directly by immigration officials.

Journalists and Media

Foreign journalists and media crews can enter on tourist visas for short visits but should notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if conducting professional activities. For longer assignments or sensitive reporting, a journalist accreditation may be required. Professional filming equipment may need to be declared at customs. Always carry press credentials and assignment letters. Respect local laws regarding privacy and restricted areas.