Ready to plan your trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina? You’ll learn who needs a visa, what documents to prepare, where to apply, fees, processing times—and even what changes may be coming soon.

Who Needs a Visa and Who Doesn’t?

Bosnia & Herzegovina maintains a visa-free regime for citizens of over 70 countries, including all EU member states, the United States, Canada and Australia. Travelers from other nations must apply for a visa before arrival^1.
Keep in mind that visa exemptions rely on bilateral agreements that can change at any time. Always verify the current list on an official site before booking your flight.

Types of Visas

Bosnia & Herzegovina issues several categories of entry permits. The main one for leisure travelers is the Tourist Visa. Other types include:

• Business Visa
• Student Visa
• Transit Visa

Tourist Visa

This is a short-stay permit valid up to 90 days within a six-month period. You cannot work on this visa.

Requirements and Documents

To apply for a tourist visa you’ll typically need:

• A passport valid at least three months beyond your intended departure date
• Completed application form
• Two recent passport-size photos
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements or a sponsor letter)
• Travel medical insurance covering €30,000 in medical expenses
• Confirmed flight itinerary
• Proof of paid accommodation or a fully paid travel agency voucher
• Originals and photocopies of all documents
• Translations of non-English documents into English, French, Spanish or Dutch
• For minors traveling alone: a notarized parental consent statement

Learn more on the VFS Global site^2.

Application Process and Where to Apply

You must submit your paperwork at the nearest Bosnian embassy or consulate. Some countries outsource submissions to VFS Global centers. If you use an authorized representative, include an authority letter signed by you.

Fees and Payment Methods

Visa fees depend on your nationality but usually range from €30 to €60. Note that many missions accept only money orders or cashier’s checks; personal checks and cash may be refused.

“Ensure you confirm the acceptable payment method with the specific embassy before you apply.” – Embassy of Bosnia & Herzegovina in Washington D.C.^3

Processing Times and Extensions

Processing can take anywhere from 5 working days up to one month, depending on the embassy’s workload and your case^1. If you need to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Office in Sarajevo or Banja Luka before your visa expires.

Future Changes in Visa Policy

Bosnia & Herzegovina is an EU candidate country aiming to join the Schengen Zone. While it’s not yet part of Schengen, it partially aligns its visa rules with the EU and accepts some EU-issued residence cards. Once the EU’s ETIAS system launches, travelers from visa-exempt countries will likely need an ETIAS authorization to enter Bosnia & Herzegovina.^4

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Double-check visa-free lists on an official government website.
• Translate non-English documents in advance.
• Secure a verified travel agency voucher if you book through an agency.
• Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance in your home country.
• Allow at least four weeks for your permit to arrive, especially during peak season.

Your Bosnian Adventure Awaits

With the right preparation, obtaining your Bosnia & Herzegovina tourist visa can be straightforward. Gather your documents, confirm fees and payments, and keep an eye on upcoming policy changes—then get ready to explore historic Sarajevo, stunning Mostar and the canyon-lined landscapes in between. Enjoy your trip!