Location: Serbia
Event: As of May 15, the Serbian Ministry of Health announced 10,438 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Serbia and 225 deaths, with 4,301 of those infected having recovered, leaving an estimated 5,912 remaining active infections.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts, and check our Embassy COVID-19 webpage for updated information as it is released.
The government of Serbia has started to relax some measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. Updates since our last Alert are bolded:
Travel and Quarantine
- We remind all U.S. citizens that the U.S. Department of State Global Health Advisory remains at “Level 4: Do Not Travel” and Americans worldwide continue to face challenges in coordinating their travel home.
- It has been reported that three border crossings between Serbia and Hungary, Reszka (Horgos), Tompa (Kelebija) and Hercegszanto (Backi Breg), are open for individuals who work in the neighboring country.
- Limited air travel may resume starting May 18, subject to restrictions by other countries. Additional flights are expected to resume in June. Please check with air carriers for routes and schedules.
- The Serbian government announced that entry to Serbia for foreign citizens will require a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival AND a “stay authorization” or “authorization for transit” from the Serbian government. The government of Serbia reportedly plans to launch a web portal where foreign citizens can apply for this authorization, but that web portal is not yet operational. The PCR test must be given by the national reference laboratory of the country the foreigner is coming from. Tests will not be required for children up to 12 as long as the parent/guardian has the test results. These requirements may change at any time.
Transportation
- Public transportation has resumed throughout Serbia, masks are required.
Businesses, Parks, and Schools
- Most businesses are permitted to be open, though with limited numbers of customers inside and requirements for disinfection and use of protective equipment.
- Sports betting venues under 400 square meters may operate with protective measures.
- Public gatherings of up to 50 participants may be allowed with police notification at least five days in advance.
- Public parks are open and outdoor sports training is allowed, subject to social distancing of at least 2 meters between people.
- Primary and secondary schools, and higher education institutions remain closed. Day care centers are permitted to be open, though not all are.
Travelers should be prepared for restrictions to change with little or no advance notice. Visit the website of the Government of Serbia for additional information on these measures.
Effective March 16, U.S. Embassy Belgrade has suspended routine consular services. Emergency American Citizens Services including emergency passport issuance continue to be available. Please visit our website for additional information.
The Department of State has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory for COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Warning for COVID-19 advising travelers to avoid non-essential travel.
Actions to Take:
- Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
- For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
- Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
- Check with your airlines or cruise lines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
- Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Serbia.
- Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restriction to the U.S.
- Seek medical care right away if you believe you may have COVID-19 (or similar symptoms) or were exposed to someone who may have COVID-19 in the last six weeks.
Assistance:
· Embassy Belgrade, Serbia
o +381 (11) 706-4000 (24 hours)
· State Department – Consular Affairs
o 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.