Effective 2024, Serbia increased its national minimum wage – a positive development for both employers and foreign workers seeking local employment. This blog outlines the key points you need to know:
The New Minimum Wage
The minimum wage now stands at RSD 271 per hour, up from RSD 230 per hour. This increase can benefit both foreign workers seeking employment in Serbia and employers who can now offer more competitive salaries.
Who Does it Affect?
The minimum salary level applies specifically to locally hired foreign nationals. This means if you’re a foreign worker and your employer is based in Serbia, your offered salary needs to meet or exceed the new minimum hourly rate.
Understanding Monthly Variations
The minimum monthly salary requirement isn’t a fixed amount. It fluctuates depending on the number of working hours in a specific month. For instance, January has 184 working hours, requiring a higher minimum monthly salary compared to February with only 160 working hours.
Important Note on Benefits
Benefits and allowances don’t count towards meeting the minimum wage requirement. This means your base salary, excluding any benefits offered, needs to reach the minimum threshold.
Compliance for Employers
The new minimum wage applies to new applications, pending applications, and current permit holders. Employers must ensure all foreign workers, regardless of application status, receive at least the new minimum hourly rate.
Planning Your Career Move to Serbia
With the rise in the minimum wage, Serbia offers a more attractive proposition for foreign workers. Remember to research the average salary for your specific job role and ensure your offered salary meets or exceeds the minimum requirement. So, research your desired job market, ensure your salary aligns with the regulations, and get ready to embark on a rewarding career path in Serbia!
