Apartment categorization in Serbia: documents, process and timelines
How individuals get a categorization decision for a flat or apartment, where to apply, and what you need before the first guest and eTurista.
Key takeaways
- No categorization means no legal tourist rental — eTurista requires a decision.
- Apply to the competent tourism authority (city secretariat in Belgrade/Novi Sad/Niš).
- Bed count in the decision drives tourist tax and legal capacity.
Before listing on Airbnb or Booking in Serbia you need official categorization — a decision that your property meets tourist accommodation standards. Without it, eTurista is limited and inspections treat hosting as irregular.
1Who must categorize
Individuals renting a flat, apartment, room or rural household to tourists need a categorization decision. Long-term tenant leases are a different regime.
2Where to apply
Most municipalities: local tourism office. Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš: city economy secretariat, not the borough office.
3Documents and inspection
Typically: land register excerpt, ownership proof, technical docs, floor plan with beds, ID. A commission visits and assigns category and bed count — see tourist tax guide.
4After approval — eTurista
With the decision you get eturista.gov.rs credentials — step-by-step eTurista. Track guests in Smarenta CRM before portal entry.
Common categorization questions:
