How Much Can an International Student Earn in Serbia Easily?

Where to find work as an international student in Serbia can be challenging, but there are opportunities. Unlike in some nations, there are not many specific student jobs that you can legally take on. Most commonly, international students in Serbia find work at construction sites where pay can be as low as 60 USD to 80 euros per day for a 10-hour shift. However, this type of work is not recommended due to the physical demands, harsh conditions, and lack of legal protection.

Typical Work and Pay

Construction work is the main form of employment for student workers in Serbia. While some students do accept this job, it is often difficult, and they might find themselves in an illegal status. Additionally, the work can be hazardous due to the nature of the job and the weather conditions, which can complicate matters further. Many foreign workers, including those from India, Pakistan, Turkey, Vietnam, and other countries, are already present in the construction sector in Serbia. However, there are also unfortunate stories of these workers, highlighting the risks involved.

Regular Minimum Wage and Other Opportunities

The minimum wage in Serbia is around 450 USD per month, which is less than the average individual might need to cover living expenses. This amount is sufficient to cover the cost of food for an average family, but it is far from being enough for students to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Housing in Belgrade can be rented for less than 300 USD, depending on the area, making it a feasible option for many students.

Other Student Employment Opportunities

Some international students choose to take on jobs that pay more, depending on their skills. One such job is bus driving, where Pakistani men working for Serbian transit companies earn around 700 USD per month. This job is particularly well-paid due to the demand for skilled drivers and the shortage of qualified truck and bus drivers in Serbia.

Transportation Sector

The transportation sector offers several other opportunities for international students. For instance, working as a city transit bus driver is a relatively secure and well-paying job. Students who pursue this career can manage to support themselves without having to engage in physically demanding or illegal activities.

For those interested in other areas, truck and bus driving is one of the most deficient jobs in Serbia, making it a highly paid position. These roles require a good deal of experience and specific qualifications, but they can easily pay around 1,400 USD per month, which is significantly higher than the minimum wage.

Challenges and Considerations

One major challenge for international students in Serbia is the cost of university fees. Foreign students are required to pay full fees, which can be substantial and vary based on the faculty. For instance, fees for technology and engineering programs at some universities can exceed 3,000 USD per semester. This can put a significant financial burden on students and may limit their choices in terms of study options.

Finding Meaningful Work

To find meaningful and well-paying work as an international student in Serbia, it is advisable to pursue employment opportunities that match your skills and qualifications. While construction work is a prevalent form of employment, it is not the most ideal or sustainable job. Students should also explore other sectors such as transportation, which offers better pay and working conditions.

Ultimately, international students should focus on developing their skills and qualifications to secure better-paying jobs that provide stability and legal protection. By doing so, they can avoid the challenges of physically demanding and potentially illegal work.