Living in Bosnia and Herzegovina as an expat
With its location in the western Balkan peninsula of Europe, moving to Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a unique experience where Eastern heritage meets Western history. Expats will enjoy visiting the historic sites, charming towns and gorgeous countryside. Bosnia occupies the northern and central parts of the country, while Herzegovina covers the smaller southern and southwestern region.
Most expats choose to live in Sarajevo, where employment is largely centred around international organisations and a growing IT sector. Entrepreneurs have spotted the potential of the country’s educated workforce and are increasingly setting up businesses here, particularly in software development and outsourcing.
Getting the correct visa or work permit is a lengthy process, so prepare for significant bureaucratic backlogs and miles of red tape. Trailing spouses often struggle to secure work due to the high local unemployment.
Healthcare standards generally fall short of what North American or Western European expats might expect. Medical staff shortages are common, and while a few good private clinics exist, you should invest in a comprehensive health insurance policy that covers treatment in neighbouring countries or medical evacuation.
English proficiency is high among the younger population, although less common with older generations. Local people are typically warm and generous, often going out of their way to help foreigners settle in.
Learning a few phrases of Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian will help you gain respect and deepen your understanding of the local culture. Religion plays a significant role in daily life, with the majority of the population being Muslim or Serbian Orthodox. Dressing modestly and behaving conservatively is advisable, particularly when visiting rural areas.
Cost of living in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Living expenses here remain low by global standards despite recent inflation. Food and transport prices are reasonable and tend to drop further the further you travel from the capital. Accommodation is generally affordable, allowing expats to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle even on a modest budget. Sarajevo is the most expensive city in the country, yet it remains significantly cheaper than most European capitals.
Families and children in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina presents challenges for families with children, primarily due to the limited number of international schools. There are currently fewer than 10 such institutions in the country, with the vast majority located in Sarajevo.
Families who do move here can still enjoy a rich lifestyle. The country is famous for its stunning mountain scenery, which offers ample opportunities for excellent skiing and hiking on clear days. Those seeking cultural enrichment will find Sarajevo’s arts scene colourful and exciting, with events such as the Sarajevo Film Festival and the International Theatre Festival among the highlights of the calendar.
Winter brings a significant caveat for families living in Sarajevo. The city suffers from severe air pollution and smog during the colder months, which often restricts outdoor activities and can be a concern for those with respiratory issues. You should be prepared for days when escaping to the mountains is necessary to find fresh air.
Climate in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The country has a continental climate featuring warm summers and cold, snowy winters. A small stretch of land near the sea enjoys a more Mediterranean climate. Temperatures typically range between 23°F (-5°C) and 81°F (27°C) throughout the year, rarely dropping below 10°F (-12°C) or rising above 92°F (33°C).
Despite its complex history, the country is full of potential. Once you have got through the initial red tape, you are likely to find that life in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a rewarding and memorable experience.
Fast facts
Official name: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Population: Around 3.2 million
Capital city: Sarajevo (also the largest city)
Other cities: Banja Luka, Tuzla, Zenica, Mostar
Neighbouring countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina shares borders with Croatia to the north, west, and south, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the southeast.
Geography: The country is heart-shaped and lies in the western Balkans. It is largely mountainous, dominated by the Dinaric Alps and dense forests in the north and centre, while the south is characterised by the rugged, flat farmland of Herzegovina. It has a tiny coastline on the Adriatic Sea at Neum, but the territory is mostly defined by its river valleys and peaks.
Political system: Parliamentary representative democracy
Major religions: Islam, Orthodox Christianity, Roman Catholicism
Main languages: Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian. English is increasingly understood by the younger generation, but is not as widely spoken as in Western Europe.
Money: The Bosnia and Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM) is divided into 100 pfennigs. Expats can open bank accounts, though it often requires a residence permit and employment contract. Cash is still widely used in smaller establishments, while ATMs are easy to find in larger cities and towns.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is customary to leave around 10 percent in restaurants and to round up the fare for taxis and small bills in cafés.
Time: GMT+1 (GMT+2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs with two round pins (Type F) are used throughout the country.
Internet domain: .ba
International dialling code: +387
Emergency contacts: 122 (police), 124 (ambulance), 123 (fire)
Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. While Sarajevo has a decent network of trams and buses, the train system is limited, so most expats rely on the extensive intercity bus network or a private car to explore the country.