GoBosnia and Herzegovina Visa Requirements

Visa Entry

1、 Visa Notice

According to the agreement between China and Poland, Chinese citizens holding diplomatic passports, official passports, and ordinary official passports are exempt from visa requirements for entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 30 days.

The agreement between China and Poland on mutual exemption of visas for ordinary passport holders has officially come into effect on May 29, 2018. Citizens holding ordinary passports who enter, exit, stay or transit in each other's countries are exempt from visa requirements for a maximum stay of 90 days per 180 days. 180 refers to a period of 180 days that extends back from any day of stay. If you wish to stay in the other country for more than 90 days every 180 days, or engage in activities such as studying, working, or reporting in the other country that require prior approval from the competent authorities of the other country, you should apply for and obtain the corresponding visa before entering the country.

According to the decision of the Bosnia and Herzegovina government, individuals holding Hong Kong or Macau SAR passports are eligible for visa free entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a maximum stay of 90 days.

Entry of minors

Foreign minors under the age of 18 but with personal travel documents may cross the border between Poland and Montenegro with the accompaniment of their parents, legal representatives, or guardians, or with the accompaniment of an authorized person of the guardian (who must provide a written authorization letter from their parents, legal representatives, or guardians). The consent form or power of attorney should include: personal information of minors and legal guardians, personal information of accompanying persons (if accompanied), purpose and duration of stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, validity period of the consent form, and signature of the authorized person. The document must be written in one of the official languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina or in English, and authenticated by an authorized court translator (if the document is translated). Minors shall be deemed to hold the consent of their legal representative in the following circumstances:

Take a flight and hold a minor transfer certificate issued by the airline operator;

Participate in school trips and be on the approved list of tour group members by the competent school agency;

Participate in sports, cultural or similar activities and be on the list of participants.

If a minor under the age of 18 is not accompanied by parents, legal representatives, or guardians and does not meet the above requirements, the minor will be handed over to the border police of the country of entry.

2、 Related information webpage

（1） BiH Bureau of Foreign Affairs

http://sps.gov.ba/index.php?lang=en

（2） Visa Information Website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina

www.mfa.ba/konzularne_informacije/vize/default.aspx

（3） State Border Management Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina

www.granpol.gov.ba/info/

3、 Entry and Exit Notice

According to the requirements of the State Border Administration of Bosnia and Herzegovina, inbound personnel must hold valid travel documents, or valid visas, permits, temporary or long-term residency in Bosnia and Herzegovina (except for those who meet visa free conditions); Driving into the country also requires holding a series of train and owner certification materials, such as a driver's license, driving license, vehicle ownership certificate, insurance, etc. recognized by Bosnia and Herzegovina; During the stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, there must be sufficient funds (including payment of necessary medical security expenses), with a specific amount of 150 "convertible marks" (approximately 75 euros) per day during the stay. Those who have not been expelled, revoked, or prohibited from entering Bosnia and Herzegovina will not pose a threat to Bosnia and Herzegovina's national security, laws, and public order during their stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Customs epidemic prevention and control

1、 Customs regulations

The State Administration of Indirect Taxes of Bosnia and Herzegovina (www.uno. gov.ba) is the unified customs management agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, established in 2004 on the basis of the customs management agencies of the two entities of Bosnia and Herzegovina - the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Serbs. It officially began operations on January 1, 2005.

Passengers entering Bosnia and Herzegovina must follow the following regulations:

According to relevant regulations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is allowed to carry foreign currency and checks with a total value not exceeding 10000 euros when entering or leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina; At the same time, after obtaining an authorized bank certificate, additional foreign currency and checks with a total value not exceeding 10000 euros can be carried without declaration. If the amount exceeds the above limit, it must be declared for customs clearance. Otherwise, once discovered, the customs will report to the Bosnia and Herzegovina Investigation and Security Bureau and impose penalties in accordance with the Bosnia and Herzegovina Anti Money Laundering Law.

Items carried by passengers in their personal luggage (including gifts or souvenirs) are exempt from customs duties, but such items are only for personal and family needs and must not have a trade import nature. Their total value must not exceed 600 "convertible marks" (approximately 300 euros). Minors under the age of 18 are not allowed to carry cigarettes or alcohol. The scope of personal belongings includes: clothing, hygiene products, jewelry, cameras, video recorders, portable projectors, portable musical instruments, portable recording and broadcasting equipment, portable televisions, portable typewriters, laptops, children's cars, disabled seats, small sports equipment, and medical devices.

For certain specific goods (alcoholic beverages, tobacco, etc.), the number of duty-free items that passengers can carry is limited as follows:

（1） Tobacco: Can carry one of the following three items: 200 cigarettes; 100 cigarettes; Tobacco 250g

（2） Alcoholic beverages: 2-liter low alcohol wine; 1 liter of alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content exceeding 22 degrees or aperitif wine; Champagne, 2 liters of strong wine.

（3） Perfume: 60ml perfume, 250ml freshener

If passengers enter Bosnia and Herzegovina with items exceeding the above-mentioned restrictions, they should declare to customs and pay customs duties. Simplified procedures will be implemented for passengers to pay customs duties. If the value of their personal belongings is below 3000 "convertible marks" (approximately 1500 euros), they will be subject to a uniform tax rate of 10%.

Passengers entering and leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina are prohibited from carrying the following items:

Commodities with trade characteristics, narcotics, toxic substances, chemicals or other dangerous goods, weapons, ammunition and explosives, and other items that endanger the interests and safety of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Antiques and artworks with historical and cultural value.

2、 Entry quarantine

Foreigners who come from epidemic areas of infectious diseases must hold vaccination certificates when entering Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The legal provisions on animal and plant inspection and quarantine in Bosnia and Herzegovina generally follow the relevant practices and regulations of the European Union. When passengers bring cats, dogs, and other animals into Bosnia and Herzegovina, they need to prepare the origin and health certificate of the animal. In addition to providing detailed information about the animal and the owner's identity, the certificate also needs to prove that the animal is in good health condition. Bosnia and Herzegovina prohibits the import and export of protected rare animals and plants.

3、 Entry requirements during the COVID-19 epidemic

From May 26, 2022, Bosnia and Herzegovina will terminate the decision on the additional conditions for foreigners to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Additional conditions: foreigners entering Bosnia and Herzegovina shall hold COVID-19 PCR test or rapid antigen test negative report, vaccination certificate or COVID-19 rehabilitation certificate)

Residency and Naturalization

1、 Alien residence policy and related procedures

Staying in Bosnia and Herzegovina shall not exceed the validity period of the visa, or the period stipulated in the agreement between the two countries waiving visas for ordinary passport holders, otherwise it will be considered illegal residence and prosecuted.

（1） According to Article 51 of the Law of Bosnia and Herzegovina on Entry Exit, Residence and Asylum of Foreigners, promulgated on April 16, 2008, foreigners can obtain temporary residence by marrying citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina or maintaining de facto marital status; Family reunion; Engage in educational, scientific research, artistic, sports, or consulting activities; Obtaining a work permit; Engaging in private enterprise or volunteer activities or projects of significant importance to Bosnia and Herzegovina; Engaging in religious activities; Owning real estate property rights within Bosnia and Herzegovina; Medical or other humanitarian reasons, such as due to Bosnia and Herzegovina's responsibilities as a signatory to international agreements.

1. Foreigners can only apply for temporary residence if they enter the country with a long-term visa (D). The requirements for a Class D visa in Bosnia and Herzegovina are as follows:

Valid passport (passport must be valid for at least 90 days from the date of visa issuance) and its photocopy;

ID card and its photocopy;

The completed visa application form;

Two photos (size: 3.5x4.5cm);

Invitation letter signed and approved by the local Foreign Affairs Service Bureau;

1) Home visit: an invitation letter issued by the Administration of Foreign Affairs and certified by the local government is required;

2) Job: It is required to attach an official invitation letter of the company in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which must be certified by the local office of the Administration of Foreign Affairs;

We also need the original work permit issued by the relevant departments in Bosnia and Herzegovina;

Proof of residence (if the applicant is not currently residing in their home country);

Proof of sufficient funds to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina;

A notarized certificate of no criminal record issued by a notary public must be authenticated and stamped by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China;

The international travel medical examination records issued by notaries must be certified and stamped by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China.

The Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina reserves the right to request applicants to provide supplementary materials.

2. The maximum duration of temporary residence is one year. The validity period of a passport held by an alien must be at least three months more than the duration of temporary residence.

3. The maximum temporary residency period issued for humanitarian reasons is six months.

4. Foreigners can only apply for extension of temporary residence for the purpose of applying for temporary residence.

（2） According to Article 59 of BiH Law on Entry Exit, Residence and Asylum of Foreigners, foreigners can obtain long-term residence only after meeting the following conditions:

1. Obtain temporary residency in Bosnia and Herzegovina and reside continuously in Bosnia and Herzegovina for more than 5 years, with sufficient and regular financial resources.

2. Having a fixed and compliant residence; There is long-term medical insurance.

3. Residence outside Bosnia and Herzegovina for no more than 90 days within one year is still considered continuous residence.

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not grant long-term residency for legal entities, volunteer activities, medical care, or participation in projects of significant importance to Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as education, temporary or international asylum, Vienna Convention on Diplomatic and Consular Relations, etc.

For specific procedures for temporary or long-term residence in Bosnia and Herzegovina, please refer to the website of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina: www.sps.gov.ba/engleski/informacija.php

2、 Nationality and Immigration Policy

Bosnia and Herzegovina conditionally recognizes dual citizenship. Article 4 of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Nationality Law, promulgated on August 26, 1999, stipulates that citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina may possess the nationality of a country that has signed an agreement with Bosnia and Herzegovina recognizing dual nationality.

Bosnian citizenship can be obtained through application. Article 9 of the Law of Bosnia and Herzegovina on Nationality stipulates that foreigners applying for Bosnia and Herzegovina nationality shall meet the following conditions:

（1） At least 18 years old;

（2） Have resided in Bosnia and Herzegovina for at least 8 years;

（3） Familiar with a language of the main ethnic group in Bosnia and Herzegovina;

（4） Has not been expelled or denied entry by the judicial authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the grounds of protecting national security;

（5） Individuals who have not been sentenced to more than three years in prison for criminal offenses within the 8 years prior to the date of application submission.

（6） Except for those whose original nationality country has signed an agreement recognizing dual nationality with Bosnia and Herzegovina, those who acquire Bosnia and Herzegovina nationality voluntarily renounce or otherwise lose their original nationality.

The Bureau of Foreign Affairs of BiH is the competent department for naturalization affairs, and its common contact information is:

Telephone: 00387-33-772950

Fax: 00387-33-772982

website: www.sps.gov.ba

The risk level of Bosnia and Herzegovina is blue (low risk)

public security

A large number of landmines left over from the Bosnian War in the 1990s have not been cleared, so it is important to pay attention to minefield warnings. Self driving travelers should not explore areas that are rarely visited by humans, such as abandoned houses, barren mountains, etc; Theft, robbery, and other incidents targeting tourists occur from time to time. It is recommended that individuals do not carry large amounts of cash with them when going out, and take good care of their documents and belongings when visiting popular attractions or taking public transportation such as buses and trams; Avoid going out alone at night; If a public security case occurs, the parties involved should report it to the police as soon as possible.

natural disaster

Bosnia and Herzegovina has generally good natural conditions, with common natural disasters including floods, landslides, and avalanches. In the spring of 2014, a once-in-a-century catastrophic flood broke out, causing widespread landslides throughout the country, particularly in the Tuzla region.

It is recommended that individuals pay attention to searching for real-time information when traveling, make travel plans, and avoid flood prone areas. During the skiing season, please visit a regular ski resort and strictly follow the signs on the ski slopes. When playing in the wild, pay attention to preventing mosquitoes (especially ticks) from biting, and do not go alone to explore unknown mountains and forests or swim in Rivers and Lakes to avoid drowning and other safety accidents.

FDA

The hygiene of drinking water and food is generally good. It is recommended to dine at regular restaurants that meet hygiene standards.

Urgent Help

Fire alarm hotline: 123

Bandit police phone number: 122

Traffic accident assistance: 1288

Emergency hotline: 124

24-hour Consular Protection Hotline of the Chinese Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina: 00387-62442353

air traffic

There are no direct flights from China to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Bosnia and Herzegovina has four international airports located in Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Tuzla, and Mostar. Among them, Sarajevo International Airport has direct flights to major European cities such as Vienna, Munich, Istanbul, Belgrade, and Zagreb. The transportation to and from Sarajevo International Airport is by taxi. Details of Sarajevo Airport can be found on the website www.sarajevo-airport.ba or by calling 00387-33-289100 for inquiries

land transport

The main modes of transportation in Bosnia and Herzegovina are trains and long-distance buses. Chinese driver's license cannot be used in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The main traffic rules in Bosnia and Herzegovina are similar to those in China. Please note that you can only turn right when the green light is on.

There are many mountain roads and bends in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and some sections have inaccurate Google Maps navigation routes. Please drive with caution when traveling by car, do not exceed the speed limit, and take anti-skid measures when driving in winter (according to the laws of Bosnia and Herzegovina, anti-skid tires or chains must be installed on vehicles from mid November of the current year to mid April of the following year). When driving, please make sure to bring your driver's license, driving license, insurance and other materials.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has fewer train services and slower travel speeds. For specific information, please refer to www.zfbh.ba (Railway Company of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina) and www.zrs-rs.com (Railway Company of the Republic of Serbia).

There are long-distance bus connections in various cities within Bosnia and Herzegovina. For specific information, please refer to: www.centrotrans.com。

Car rental companies mainly include:

Eurocar（www.europcar.com）

ASArent-a-car(00387-33-760360)， Budget(00387-61-350711)

water communication

Rivers within Bosnia and Herzegovina do not have navigable conditions.

Urban transportation

The main modes of transportation in Sarajevo are buses, trams, and taxis. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands or by drivers. When taking a tram, please be sure to put your ticket into the ticket checking machine for stamping after boarding, otherwise it will be considered as fare evasion and a fine will be imposed.

For details, please refer to the Sarajevo urban transportation network: www.gras.ba

major city

1、 Sarajevo

The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the largest city in the country. Located in the central eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in a hilly area surrounded by mountains. Sarajevo has four districts with an area of 142 square kilometers and a population of approximately 300000; It is the political, economic, and cultural center of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo is a world-renowned city and the site of the First World War. Sarajevo is the only city in Europe where four religions and cultures blend together, with many historical and cultural landmarks. The city is home to Islamic mosques, Catholic churches, Eastern Orthodox churches, and synagogues that complement each other. Sa City successfully hosted the 14th Winter Olympics in 1984. The main attractions are Ba šč ar š ija Old Town and Latinski Most, also known as Princip Bridge.

2、 Mostar

Located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the banks of the Neretva River, belonging to the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is the political, economic, and cultural center of the region. Covering an area of 96 square kilometers, with a population of approximately 110000, the main residents are Croats. The main attraction is the Stari most, which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

3、 Banja Luka

The capital of the Republika Srpska and the second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The area is 150 square kilometers and the population is about 200000. Located in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Verbac River runs through the city. After World War II, the economy of Ba City developed rapidly, especially in the fields of energy, metal industry, wood processing, etc., with a solid foundation.

Commodity prices

Mineral resources include iron ore, lignite, bauxite, lead and zinc ore, among which the coal reserves are 5.5 billion tons, and the edible salt reserves in Tuzla are the largest in Europe. The main agricultural products are wheat, rye, barley, and corn. The main livestock products are beef and mutton. Southern Bosnia and Herzegovina is also rich in wine. Prices are generally lower than in other countries in the region.

The currency is called "Convertible Mark", or simply "pomamak".

The exchange rate between the convertible mark and the euro is fixed

1 Euro ≈ 1.95 Convertible Marks

1 USD ≈ 1.836 Convertible Marks (November 2023)

Please refer to the website of the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina www.cbbh.ba for real-time exchange rates

The main payment method is cash payment, and credit cards such as VISA and MASTER can also be used for payment in large supermarkets or hotels.

Banking and financial services: The main commercial banks include Raiffeisen Bank (www.raiffeisenbank. ba), Economic Bank (www.PBS. ba), etc. All banks in Bosnia and Herzegovina accept foreign currency exchange for Bosnian marks.

Insurance Medical

The overall medical expenses in Bosnia and Herzegovina are relatively high. It is recommended that temporary visitors, family visits, and tourists to Bosnia and Herzegovina prepare an appropriate amount of personal medication. For those who have been doing business and working in Bosnia and Herzegovina for a long time, it is recommended to apply for local medical insurance. The main medical institutions in Sarajevo are the Sarajevo University Central Hospital (www.kcus. ba) and the Abduranacash Hospital (www.obs. ba).

Customs taboos

Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a multi-ethnic (Bosniak, Serbian, Croatian, etc.) and multi religious (Islamic, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, etc.) country, has many religious holidays. Currently, Bosnia and Herzegovina has not made unified regulations on national holidays.

1、 Important Islamic Festivals

（1） Eid al Fitr: In the Islamic calendar, September is the month of Ramadan. If a new moon appears on the last day of Ramadan, the next day is Eid al Fitr; If there is no new moon, Ramadan will be postponed by one day, and the next day will be Eid al Fitr.

（2） Eid al Adha: It is held on December 10th in the Islamic calendar, which is also the last day of pilgrimage for pilgrims in Mecca. Muslims hold a ceremony, slaughter animals to offer to the Lord, worship each other, and give gifts to each other, in memory of Prophet Ibrahim sacrificing his son to Allah.

（3） Sanctum: It is both Muhammad's birthday and his death anniversary. According to the Islamic calendar, it is March 12th. On this day, Muslims usually recite scriptures, praise the saints, and recount the life and achievements of Muhammad.

2、 Important Catholic Festivals

（1） Christmas: December 25th.

（2） Easter: The first Sunday after the full moon at the vernal equinox.

（3） Pentecost: 50th day after Easter.

（4） Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary: August 15th.

（5） Halloween: November 1st.

3、 Important Eastern Orthodox Festivals

There are many festivals and fasting periods in Eastern Orthodoxy, with Easter being the most important. There are also twelve major festivals, including the Feast of the Lord in the Holy City (Sunday of the week before Easter), the Feast of the Ascension of Jesus (40 days after Easter), and the Feast of the Holy Trinity (50 days after Easter).

4、 Other important festivals

January 1-2: New Year's Day.

March 1st: Independence Day (a holiday in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina).

May 1-2: International Labor Day.

May 9th: Victory Day of the Anti Fascist War (Republika Srpska holiday)

November 25th: National Day (holiday in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina).

November 21st: National Day (holiday in the Republic of Serbia).

Bosnian people are bold, straightforward, hospitable, and skilled in singing and dancing. When meeting guests in social situations, shaking hands is often used as a courtesy, and familiar friends and relatives often hug and kiss each other.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has three main ethnic groups: Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats. Bosnia and Herzegovina has two entities, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska. The residents of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina are mainly Bosniaks who believe in Islam, while the residents of the southwestern region are mainly Croats who believe in Catholicism; The Republika Srpska is mainly composed of Serbs who believe in Eastern Orthodoxy. The three ethnic groups have their own traditional clothing and dietary habits, among which the Bo ethnic group is greatly influenced by Islamic customs, while the Serbs and Croats are roughly the same as neighboring Serbia and Croatia. Due to the large number of ethnic groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is necessary to respect the customs and habits of each ethnic group. When visiting religious sites such as mosques and churches in Bosnia and Herzegovina, be careful not to dress too provocatively.

Communications Power

The Internet is highly popular in Bosnia and Herzegovina. There are few internet cafes, but domestic hotels usually have room network interfaces or wireless network points. The internet speed can reach 2Mb/s. For details, please refer to the Bosnia and Herzegovina Telecommunications Network www.bhtele.com.ba/en-portal.html.

The mobile network standard is compatible with Chinese mobile phones.

The power plug in Bosnia and Herzegovina is of German standard, with a standard voltage of 220V.

contact information