Get Your Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and family visits to Bosnia and Herzegovina
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa
Simple 4-step process — most travelers approved within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, travel plans, and accommodation information. Our system validates your entries against Bosnia and Herzegovina's consular requirements, ensuring a complete application before submission.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan, recent passport photographs, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists review every document for compliance with Bosnian embassy standards and provide feedback on any corrections needed.
3
We process your application
Your verified application is prepared for submission to the Bosnia and Herzegovina consulate serving your region. We handle all communication with consular officials, track your application status, and keep you informed throughout the process.
4
Receive your visa
Once approved, your Bosnia and Herzegovina visa is affixed to your passport or delivered electronically. Print any required documents and prepare for your journey to discover Sarajevo's rich history, Mostar's iconic bridge, and the country's stunning natural beauty!
Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and cultural exploration
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities, meetings, and conferences
Family Visit Visa
Up to 90 days
For visiting relatives residing in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Transit Visa
Up to 5 days
For travelers passing through the country
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
- Two passport photos 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- Round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds (EUR 150 per day minimum)
- Travel insurance covering Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tourist & Visa-Free Entry
Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomes visitors from around the world to explore its diverse landscapes, from medieval towns to dramatic mountain scenery. The country has relatively liberal visa policies, with citizens of many nations enjoying visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Visa-Free Nationalities
Citizens of the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and many other countries can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa for tourism, business visits, or family visits of up to 90 days. This makes the country one of the most accessible Balkan destinations for international travelers.
Tourist Visa Requirements
Nationals requiring a visa should apply through the nearest Bosnia and Herzegovina embassy or consulate. The tourist visa allows exploration of the country's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic Stari Most bridge in Mostar and the multicultural capital Sarajevo. Tourist visas are typically issued for single entry, with stays up to 90 days.
Business & Work Visas
Business Visa
Bosnia and Herzegovina's growing economy offers opportunities for international business partnerships. The business visa caters to professionals attending meetings, trade fairs, conferences, or exploring commercial opportunities. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from a Bosnian company, your company's registration documents, and a letter from your employer explaining the business purpose.
Business visas may be issued for single or multiple entries depending on your commercial activities. For ongoing business relationships, multiple-entry visas can facilitate regular travel.
Work Visa
Foreign nationals seeking employment in Bosnia and Herzegovina must obtain a work permit sponsored by their employer, followed by a work visa. The process involves approval from the Foreign Service Agency and labor authorities. Industries such as IT, manufacturing, and tourism often recruit international talent.
Temporary Residence
For stays exceeding 90 days, visitors must apply for temporary residence through the Service for Foreigners' Affairs. This applies to students, workers, and those joining family members.
Visa Requirements & Documentation
Essential Requirements for Visa Applicants
Bosnia and Herzegovina maintains specific documentation standards for visa applications:
• Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay with minimum 2 blank pages
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos (35x45mm) with white background, taken within 6 months
• Application form: Completed and signed Bosnia and Herzegovina visa application form
• Travel itinerary: Round-trip flight bookings or detailed travel plan showing entry and exit
• Accommodation: Hotel reservations or invitation letter from host with their ID copy
• Financial proof: Bank statements showing minimum EUR 150 per day of stay
• Travel insurance: Policy covering medical emergencies valid in Bosnia and Herzegovina, minimum EUR 30,000 coverage
• Employment proof: Letter from employer confirming leave approval, or business registration if self-employed
Special Requirements
Minors traveling alone or with one parent require notarized parental consent. Business visa applicants need an invitation from a registered Bosnian company.
Processing Times & Entry Points
Visa Processing Times
Bosnia and Herzegovina visa processing typically takes 5-15 business days, though times vary by consulate and application type. Factors affecting processing include consulate workload, completeness of documentation, and nationality-specific requirements. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.
Entry Points
Bosnia and Herzegovina visas are valid at all official ports of entry:
• Airports: Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ), Banja Luka International Airport (BNX), Tuzla International Airport (TZL), Mostar Airport (OMO)
• Land borders: Multiple crossings with Croatia (most common: Gradiska, Bosanska Gradiska, Metkovic), Serbia (Raca, Zvornik, Mali Zvornik), and Montenegro (Scepan Polje, Hum)
Registration Requirement
All foreign visitors must register with local police within 48 hours of arrival. Hotels automatically handle this registration. If staying in private accommodation, your host or you must register at the nearest police station.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
98%Approval rate
"DoVisa made my Bosnia trip planning so easy. Clear instructions and quick processing. Mostar was absolutely stunning!"
"Excellent service for my business visa to Sarajevo. The team was responsive and knowledgeable about all requirements."
"Good overall experience. Processing took about a week but support kept me informed. Would use again for Balkan travel."
"First time visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina. DoVisa's guidance on the visa-free requirements was really helpful."
"Visited family in Banja Luka. The invitation letter requirements were clearly explained. Smooth process!"
"Helpful team that answered all my questions about Bosnia visa requirements. The country exceeded my expectations."
"DoVisa helped me navigate the documentation for my tourist visa. Sarajevo's history is incredible!"
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"Applied for my Bosnia visa through DoVisa. Great communication and my visa arrived on time for my trip to Mostar."
"Solid service with good document review. The team caught an issue with my application before submission."
Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina offers several visa categories. Tourist visa (C) allows stays up to 90 days for sightseeing, cultural exploration, and leisure travel. Business visa (C) is for commercial activities, meetings, conferences, and trade fairs. Visit visa enables visits to family or friends residing in the country. Transit visa (B) permits passage through Bosnia and Herzegovina en route to another destination. Work visa (D) is required for employment and must be sponsored by a Bosnian employer. Student visa (D) is for those enrolled in Bosnian educational institutions. The appropriate visa depends on your travel purpose and intended length of stay.
Do I need a visa to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry to Bosnia and Herzegovina for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visa-free countries include: All EU member states, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others. Visa required: Citizens of certain African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries typically need a visa. Important: Even visa-free travelers must meet entry requirements including valid passport, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and return ticket. Check the latest regulations for your specific nationality before traveling, as policies can change.
What documents are required for a Bosnia and Herzegovina visa?
The visa application requires several documents: Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay with 2 blank pages. Application form: Completed Bosnia and Herzegovina visa application, signed and dated. Photographs: Two recent passport photos (35x45mm) with white background. Flight reservation: Round-trip booking or travel itinerary. Accommodation proof: Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host including their ID copy and proof of residence. Financial proof: Bank statements showing minimum EUR 150 per day of stay. Travel insurance: Minimum EUR 30,000 coverage for medical emergencies. Employment proof: Letter from employer or business registration. Additional documents may be required based on visa type.
How long does Bosnia and Herzegovina visa processing take?
Visa processing typically takes 5-15 business days, though times vary. Standard processing: Most applications are processed within 10 working days. Peak seasons: Summer months and holiday periods may see longer processing times. Complex cases: Applications requiring additional verification may take up to 30 days. Factors affecting time: Consulate workload, completeness of documentation, and nationality-specific checks. Recommendation: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date. DoVisa's document review service helps ensure complete applications that process faster.
How long can I stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Stay duration depends on your entry type and visa. Visa-free visitors: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is calculated across all visits, so if you stay 60 days, you can only return for 30 more days within the same 180-day window. Tourist/Business visa holders: Usually granted 30-90 days depending on your application and consular discretion. Multiple entries: Some visas allow multiple entries during the validity period. Extensions: Possible by applying at the Service for Foreigners' Affairs before your current permission expires. Overstaying: Results in fines, potential deportation, and future entry difficulties. Always track your permitted stay and plan accordingly.
Can I extend my visa while in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes, visa extensions are possible under certain circumstances. Where to apply: Service for Foreigners' Affairs (Sluzba za poslove sa strancima) offices in major cities. When to apply: Before your current visa or permitted stay expires, ideally 1-2 weeks in advance. Requirements: Valid passport, current visa, completed extension form, proof of continued accommodation, updated financial proof, valid travel insurance, and explanation for extension need. Processing: Usually 5-10 business days. You receive a receipt allowing you to stay while processing. Approval: Extensions are discretionary and depend on your circumstances. Valid reasons include medical treatment, family emergencies, or extended business needs. Maximum stay: Generally limited to 90 days total within 180 days for short-stay visas.
Can I work in Bosnia and Herzegovina with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas and visa-free entry strictly prohibit employment. Tourist visas permit only leisure activities: sightseeing, visiting friends and family, and cultural exploration. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings but not paid employment. Legal employment requires: Work permit obtained by your employer through the Employment Service, followed by a D-type work visa application. Processing takes 4-8 weeks. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines up to BAM 3,000, detention, deportation, and entry bans. Employers face severe penalties. Freelancing: Working remotely for foreign clients while on tourist status is a legal grey area and not explicitly permitted. For any work activities, obtain proper authorization first.
Do I need to print my visa or can I show it electronically?
Bosnia and Herzegovina issues sticker visas affixed to your passport, not electronic visas. Application process: Apply through the embassy/consulate, and upon approval, your passport is returned with the visa sticker. At border control: Present your passport with the visa sticker. Officers will verify the visa and stamp your entry. No eVisa system: Unlike some countries, Bosnia and Herzegovina does not currently offer an online electronic visa system. Visa-free travelers: Simply present your valid passport at entry; no visa document needed. Important: Keep your passport safe as the visa cannot be transferred or reprinted if lost.
What if my Bosnia and Herzegovina visa application is rejected?
If your visa is denied, you have options. Notification: The embassy provides written notification of refusal, usually with reasons. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, doubts about travel purpose, or previous immigration violations. Appeal: You can appeal the decision within 15 days to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Appeals require addressing the specific reasons for refusal. Reapplication: After addressing issues, you can submit a new application with corrected documentation. There is no mandatory waiting period for reapplication. DoVisa guarantee: Our document review service minimizes rejection risk. If denied despite our review, we offer a money-back guarantee on service fees. Tip: Review your documentation carefully and ensure all information is accurate and consistent.
Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe for tourists?
Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe for tourists, with a welcoming population and improving infrastructure. Safe areas: Major cities (Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka), tourist sites, and popular routes are well-policed and safe. Landmine awareness: Due to the 1990s conflict, some rural and mountainous areas still have unexploded ordnance. Stick to marked trails and paved roads; do not enter abandoned buildings or fields. Marked minefields have warning signs. Petty crime: Normal urban precautions apply. Pickpocketing occurs in tourist areas. Keep valuables secure. Political situation: Complex but stable. Occasional protests occur but rarely affect tourists. Practical advice: Use reputable transportation, avoid isolated areas at night, keep copies of documents separate from originals. Bosnians are known for their hospitality and helpfulness toward visitors.
What is the best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina offers year-round appeal depending on your interests. Spring (April-May): Pleasant temperatures, blooming nature, fewer crowds. Ideal for sightseeing in Sarajevo and Mostar. Rivers perfect for rafting. Summer (June-August): Warm weather, peak tourist season. Best for outdoor activities, festivals, and coastal Herzegovina. Can be hot in low-lying areas. Autumn (September-October): Beautiful fall colors, wine harvest in Herzegovina, comfortable temperatures. Excellent for hiking and cultural tourism. Winter (December-February): Skiing season near Sarajevo (Jahorina, Bjelasnica). Cold but magical atmosphere. Christmas markets and traditional celebrations. Sarajevo Film Festival: Mid-August attracts international visitors. Recommendation: May-June and September offer the best balance of weather, crowds, and prices.
Do I need vaccinations for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina has no mandatory vaccination requirements for entry from most countries. Routine vaccinations: Ensure standard immunizations are current, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and annual flu shot. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A (food/water exposure), Hepatitis B (if potential blood exposure), and Rabies (for extended outdoor activities). Tick-borne encephalitis: Consider if hiking in forested areas during spring/summer. COVID-19: Check current requirements as policies change. No special requirements: Yellow fever certificate not required unless arriving from endemic countries. No malaria risk in the country. Healthcare: Public hospitals in major cities; private clinics offer good care. Carry travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Pharmacies are well-stocked for common medications.
What currency is used in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina uses the Convertible Mark (BAM or KM), pegged to the Euro at approximately 1 EUR = 1.96 BAM. Euro acceptance: Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, especially in Herzegovina and border regions, though you may receive change in BAM. ATMs: Widely available in cities and towns. Most accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard). Withdraw BAM for better rates than currency exchange. Credit cards: Accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in cities. Smaller establishments and rural areas prefer cash. Currency exchange: Available at banks, exchange offices (menjacnica), and some hotels. Rates are generally fair. Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Round up bills or leave 10% at restaurants for good service. Tip: Carry small denominations for markets, cafes, and taxis in smaller towns.
Do children need their own Bosnia and Herzegovina visa?
Yes, every traveler including children requires their own visa or must meet visa-free entry requirements individually. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with required validity; passport photographs meeting adult specifications; completed application with child's details. Additional documentation: Birth certificate (original or certified copy); if traveling with one parent, notarized consent from the absent parent; custody documents if applicable. Unaccompanied minors: Require notarized consent from both parents, details of receiving adult in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and proof of relationship. Border officers may verify these documents carefully. Fees: Children typically pay the same visa fees as adults. Family travel: Apply for all family members simultaneously to streamline processing.
What are the top places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina offers remarkable diversity. Sarajevo: The capital blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern architecture. Visit Bascarsija bazaar, Latin Bridge (site of WWI's trigger), and the poignant war museums. Mostar: Famous for the UNESCO-listed Stari Most bridge and charming old town with traditional crafts. Blagaj: Stunning Dervish monastery at the source of the Buna River. Travnik: Former Ottoman capital with colorful mosques and fortress. Jajce: Medieval town with waterfall in the center. Pocitelj: Preserved Ottoman village on the Neretva. Una National Park: Spectacular waterfalls and rafting opportunities. Kravice Waterfalls: Bosnia's answer to Plitvice. Trebinje: Wine region with Mediterranean atmosphere. Banja Luka: Second city with Kastel fortress and vibrant cafe culture. Olympic Mountains: Jahorina and Bjelasnica for hiking and skiing.
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