Bosnian and Herzegovinian visa resources
How to Apply for a Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa or Residence Permit
The two main channels: short-stay visas through diplomatic and consular missions abroad, and residence/work permits through the Service for Foreigners' Affairs inside the country.
Important
Applications for Bosnia and Herzegovina fall into two broad channels. Short-stay and airport transit visas are applied for at a Bosnia and Herzegovina diplomatic or consular mission (embassy or consulate) in your country or region of residence, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. You submit a completed application form, a valid travel document, and supporting documents specific to your purpose of travel.
Longer stays for work, study, family or settlement are handled by the Service for Foreigners' Affairs (SFA/SPS), an organisation within the Ministry of Security. Where a long-stay (Visa D) is required, it is arranged with the SFA's involvement, and once in the country the foreign national applies for a temporary residence permit at the SFA field office with jurisdiction over their place of stay.
The SFA publishes required-document lists, electronic forms and a fee schedule on its official website. Always use the official SFA and Ministry of Foreign Affairs pages, and check whether an appointment or prior invitation certification is needed for your purpose.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.