Is it a wise decision for a European entrepreneur and his family to relocate to the Balkans outside the EU? If so, which country provides the most favourable taxation and the highest level of safety?
Relocate in the Balkans
- Thread starter Justit
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Montenegro and Serbia. At a push, North Macedonia.
Relocating to the Balkans outside the EU can be a good move if the goal is lower taxation, easier bureaucracy, more flexible banking, and escaping from EUnazism.
If someone wants a good mix of low taxes and safety, Montenegro is the best choice. If the priority is building or running a business at scale, Serbia is more useful. If the goal is the absolute lowest cost of living, North Macedonia is the easy win.
Albania is beautiful but forget it if you don't already know it in and out. Too hardcore.
Last warning: don't move somewhere because influencers said it is “the new Dubai of Europe.” That phrase is a warning sign that brings nothing good.
Relocating to the Balkans outside the EU can be a good move if the goal is lower taxation, easier bureaucracy, more flexible banking, and escaping from EUnazism.
- Montenegro has nice climate, personal taxation 9-15% (depending on the region), corporate taxation and capital gains 9%. Unfortunately EU accession is in progress, so it can't be a long term solution.
- Serbia is better for entrepreneurs who need a real economy. Corporate taxation is 15%, personal income flat at 10% for many categories, and incentives exist for tech.
- North Macedonia is cheap. Personal and corporate taxation are 10%. But it's a bit dull.
If someone wants a good mix of low taxes and safety, Montenegro is the best choice. If the priority is building or running a business at scale, Serbia is more useful. If the goal is the absolute lowest cost of living, North Macedonia is the easy win.
Albania is beautiful but forget it if you don't already know it in and out. Too hardcore.
Last warning: don't move somewhere because influencers said it is “the new Dubai of Europe.” That phrase is a warning sign that brings nothing good.
I lived in a Bulgarian coastal city for a year. I have to say, I really enjoyed it. I just needed a place to work on my business in peace. Mild winter, great summer, people were friendly. It was affordable. Lots of development going on (newly bult malls, apartments etc). but it still lacks in some regards. No brand stores and such. Restaurants are good though. I left because it I felt like I was still a bit too young to live so peacefully, I needed some more action in a bigger city. Also spent a lot of time in Greece, but I wouldn't live there, just visit for several weeks in a row (as I still do). I think the entirety of the Balkans are super safe (never felt unsafe for a single moment), crime-levels are super low. And like JohnnyDoe said, tax-wise outside the EU gives you the best deal.
Better than Sofia: it smells.
Unfortunately Vulgaria has received the kiss of death from the EU.
I didn't like Sofia either. Had little appeal compared to other capital cities. No grandeur, lots of gypsy's roaming around. Funnily enough they even have traffic signs that shows it's forbidden to enter a certain area with horse and cart. Bulgarian coast is a decent region though, in my humble opinion.
Sadly their politicians really betrayed their people. Introducing the Euro was the final nail in the coffin.