Open a Foundation in Serbia: Requirements and Documents

Would you like to open a foundation in Serbia and need assistance? This article explains the key steps so that you can get a clear picture. Tailored support can be offered by our specialists in company formation in Serbia once you access our online services.

Quick Facts
Legal framework	Foundations are regulated by the Law on Foundations and Endowments in Serbia.
Purposes to open a foundation in Serbia	Must have a clear charitable purpose (e.g., education, health, culture).
Types of foundations in Serbia	Foundations pursue public-benefit goals only; endowments may also pursue permitted private interests
Minimum capital	None for a foundation; EUR 30,000 for an endowment
Founders	Can be individuals or legal entities, no specific residency requirement applies.
Governing body	Must have a governing board (3+ members) and establish operational rules.
Registration of a foundation in Serbia	Must register with the Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR).
Required documents	– statute, – founder’s decision, – proof of capital, – identification official paper, – application form
Tax status	Some tax exemptions may apply under certain conditions.
Accounting requirements	Must maintain transparent financial records and report annually.
Funding sources	Donations, grants, fundraisers, and membership fees can be sources of funds.
Operating obligations	Must comply with local laws, charity regulations, and reporting obligations.
Duration	Can be established for a fixed term or indefinitely.
Dissolution procedure	Must follow legal procedures to dissolve, including asset distribution.
Legal assistance	Consult our experts for detailed advice and compliance.

How is a foundation known in Serbia?

Fondacija.

Who can register/stablish foundations in Serbia?

Foreign/local individuals and legal entities.

What is the purpose of a foundation in Serbia?

it has a charitable purpose,
it is used for public benefit.

Is a foundation the same as a charity?

Yes.

NOTE: A foundation can be established in Serbia to serve educational, humanitarian, cultural and/or religious purposes.

What are the key documents for opening a foundation in Serbia?

founder’s statement, or the founding act,
a bank statement showing initial assets,
IDs of shareholders,
proof of authorized representatives, etc.

NOTE: The application with all documents must be submitted in duplicate form at the Business Registers Agency, where our agents who specialize in company formation in Serbia can represent you.

What is the minimum share capital for a foundation in Serbia?

There is no minimum capital required.

What other aspects are important when opening a foundation in Serbia?

foundations in Serbia can be registered by one person or a group of persons. Also, a legal entity in Serbia can be a charity founder.
the Deed of the Foundation is a document that must include information about the purpose and goals of the charity in Serbia.
a foundation can have a board of directors, where the founder of the charity, chairperson, and managing director also have their place.
the director of the foundation in Serbia can be a family member if the founder so wishes. Foreigners with residency in Serbia are also accepted.
there are no restrictions regarding the founders of a charity. They can be from Serbia or other countries.

Are private foundations available in Serbia?

Yes. Regarding private foundations, the money comes from the people who take care of the respective foundation, and here can be included all the family members or the corporations they manage.

NOTE: Private foundations do not get involved in fundraising, while public charities do.

Are there any recommendations when opening a foundation in Serbia?

The beneficial-owner report is now mandatory for foundations in Serbia. This should be submitted to the Central Register of Beneficial Owners annually.

Our Serbian accountants are well-equipped to assist with all your accounting needs, ensuring compliance and efficiency in your financial operations, including for Serbian foundations. Contact us for our services if you are interested in company incorporation in Serbia.