Residence & citizenship
Bosnian and Herzegovinian Permanent Residence
Indefinite residence for foreigners who have completed five years of continuous lawful temporary residence, allowing them to settle without renewing temporary permits.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Any permanent-residence fee amount (e.g. 200 BAM) and the precise continuity/absence limits should be verified on official SFA sources.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Bosnia and Herzegovina government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Permanent residence permit
- Route type
- Permanent residence / settlement
- Qualifying period
- At least 5 years of continuous temporary residence
- Validity
- Indefinite
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with at least five years of continuous lawful temporary residence in BiH.
- Long-term residents seeking to settle indefinitely.
Requirements
- At least five years' continuous residence on temporary permits (short absences within limits do not break continuity).
- Sufficient, regular means of support.
- Adequate accommodation and health insurance.
- Proficiency in one official language of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- No pending criminal proceedings or disqualifying convictions.
What you can do
- Reside in Bosnia and Herzegovina indefinitely.
- Enjoy greater stability than temporary residence.
- Build toward eligibility for naturalisation.
How to apply
- Confirm you meet the five-year continuous-residence test.
- Assemble means, accommodation, insurance, language and conduct evidence.
- Apply at the competent SFA field office.
- Pay the applicable permit fee.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.