In Bosnia and Herzegovina, stay for the purpose of work without a work permit is regulated by the Law on Foreigners of BiH (Official Gazette of BiH nos. 88/2015, 34/2021 and 63/2023), in particular Article 77. This provision sets out when foreigners may work without obtaining a work permit, subject to filing a work registration notice (Form 17).
Who may work without a work permit? 👔
Foreign nationals who are in BiH on the basis of:
• a visa,
• visa‑free entry, or
• an already approved temporary residence,
may work for up to 90 days within a one‑year period if they perform specific activities, such as:
• Key personnel holding managerial responsibility in a legal entity
• University professors invited by higher‑education institutions
• Artists, authors and performers engaged in cultural and stage events (opera, ballet, theatre, concerts, exhibitions, music)
• Experts in cultural heritage protection, librarianship and archiving
• Individuals seconded by a foreign employer
• Foreigners coming for professional training
• Persons engaged in delivery, installation or servicing of machinery/equipment
• Speakers at conferences and seminars
Additional categories not requiring a work permit 🌍
Foreigners present in BiH on the basis of a visa, visa‑free entry or temporary residence may also work as:
• Founders of a company
• Experts, teachers and lecturers
• Civilian, police and military officers
• Members of international scientific missions
• Officials of religious communities
• Accredited foreign correspondents in BiH
• Foreigners engaged under agreements with state institutions in areas of:
– defence,
– the legal system,
– security,
– professional training.
When to seek professional assistance? 🤝
If you need end‑to‑end support with the Form 17 work registration as a:
• private individual,
• company,
• management board member,
• director,
• founder, or
• entrepreneur developing a business in BiH,
our legal team can handle advisory, documentation and liaison with the competent authorities.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions ❓
1. Must the work registration notice be filed before work begins?
Yes – it must be submitted prior to commencing activities in BiH.
2. How long can a foreigner work without a work permit?
Up to 90 days within one year, for activities defined by law.
3. Can the same person reapply on the same basis?
It depends on the residence status and engagement – assessed case by case.
Contact 📞
For advisory and handling the process:
Email: ana@raguzlegal.ba
Phone (Viber / WhatsApp): +387 63 413 147
