SCROLLForeign nationals can cross the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina with a valid travel document only at border crossings open for international traffic. The date of entry marks the first day of stay, while the date of exit is considered the last day of stay in the territory of BiH. Nationals of neighboring countries can use border crossings intended for traffic between BiH and neighboring states, unless bilateral agreements stipulate otherwise.
Upon entering BiH, foreigners must have a valid passport or other recognized travel document. They can also use a valid ID card or other personal document with a photo if that document is recognized by an international agreement to which Bosnia and Herzegovina is a party. Foreigners can also use travel documents issued in BiH according to the Law on the Movement and Stay of Aliens and Asylum.
Nationals of the following countries can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days within a period of six months, starting from the day of the first entry, with a travel document and a valid ID card proving identity and citizenship: Member States of the European Union, Signatories of the Schengen Agreement, Andorra, Montenegro, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Serbia, the Holy See, and the Swiss Confederation.
Visa Regime
To enter Bosnia and Herzegovina, foreigners from visa-regime countries must possess a valid visa or residence permit.
Short-Term Stay Visa – Visa C
This visa allows transit, one or multiple entries, or stay up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. The maximum duration of the visa is one year, with the possibility of extension up to five years. Visa C is issued for business, educational, tourist, and other private purposes, as well as for political, scientific, cultural, sports, religious, and similar events. This visa does not allow for a temporary residence application.
Long-Term Stay Visa – Visa D
This visa allows stay up to 180 days within one year, with the possibility to apply for temporary residence. The maximum duration of this visa is one year.
Airport Transit Visa – Visa A
This visa allows passage through the international transit area of the airport without entering the country, during a stopover or continuation of an international flight.
Issuance of Visa at the Border
In special cases, the Border Police of BiH can issue a Visa C for one entry up to 15 days or a Visa A at the border, provided that the foreigner:
- Meets general entry conditions.
- Proves they could not apply for a visa in advance.
- Presents documentation justifying urgent entry.
Foreigners must have at least 150 KM per day of stay as proof of means of subsistence.
Entry of Minors
Minors up to 14 years can cross the border with parents, legal representatives or guardians, or with a person holding a notarized authorization from the parents. Unaccompanied minors must have a notarized consent from the parents or guardians.
