Visa Free Countries for Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Comprehensive Guide
Bosnia and Herzegovina citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide, making international travel more accessible and convenient. This comprehensive guide explores the visa-free destinations, recent developments, and essential information for Bosnian passport holders planning their travels.
Current Visa-Free Status
As of 2024, Bosnia and Herzegovina citizens have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 123 countries and territories[1]. This places the Bosnian passport at the 43rd rank globally, tied with the Albanian passport, according to the Henley Passport Index[1]. The country’s passport has shown significant improvement since 2006, being recognized as one of the five passports with the most improved ratings[1].
European Destinations
Schengen Area
Bosnian citizens can travel to all 27 Schengen countries without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This includes popular destinations such as:
- Austria
- Belgium
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Spain
- Sweden
Non-Schengen European Countries
Several European countries outside the Schengen Area also offer visa-free access:
- Albania (90 days)
- Andorra (90 days)
- Belarus (30 days)
- Montenegro (90 days)
- North Macedonia (90 days)
- Serbia (90 days)
- Ukraine (30 days)
Americas
South America
Bosnian passport holders can visit several South American countries without a visa:
- Argentina (90 days)
- Brazil (90 days)
- Chile (90 days)
- Colombia (90 days)
- Ecuador (90 days)
Central America and Caribbean
Some countries in this region offering visa-free access include:
- Panama (90 days)
- Haiti (3 months)
- Trinidad and Tobago (90 days)
- Dominica (21 days)
Asia
East Asia
- China (90 days)
- South Korea (30 days with Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Hong Kong (14 days)
- Macau (90 days)
Southeast Asia
- Malaysia (90 days)
- Singapore (30 days)
- Indonesia (30 days with e-VOA or Visa on Arrival)
Central Asia
- Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
- Uzbekistan (30 days)
Africa
While many African countries require visas, some offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options:
- Tunisia (3 months)
- Eswatini (30 days)
- Seychelles (3 months with Electronic Border System)
- Mauritius (60 days with Visa on Arrival)
Middle East
- United Arab Emirates (90 days)
- Oman (14 days)
- Iran (15 days)
Oceania
- Micronesia (30 days)
- Samoa (60 days)
- Palau (30 days with Free Visa on Arrival)
Recent Developments
Several countries have recently eased travel restrictions for Bosnian citizens:
-
Argentina abolished visa requirements for ordinary Bosnian passport holders on September 5, 2023, allowing stays of up to 90 days[1].
-
The United Arab Emirates removed visa requirements for Bosnian passport holders on September 1, 2023, permitting 90-day stays[1].
-
Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina signed an agreement on November 3, 2022, to abolish visas between the two countries[1].
-
Taiwan introduced an e-Visa system for Bosnian citizens on November 20, 2019[1].
Argentina abolished visa requirements for ordinary Bosnian passport holders on September 5, 2023, allowing stays of up to 90 days[1].
The United Arab Emirates removed visa requirements for Bosnian passport holders on September 1, 2023, permitting 90-day stays[1].
Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina signed an agreement on November 3, 2022, to abolish visas between the two countries[1].
Taiwan introduced an e-Visa system for Bosnian citizens on November 20, 2019[1].
Future Prospects
The Bosnian government has announced plans to negotiate visa-free access with more countries. In December 2015, it was stated that visa requirements for regular biometric passport holders would be abolished for Mexico and Japan, while a simplified visa regime would be introduced with the United Kingdom[1].
E-Visa and Visa on Arrival Options
Many countries offer e-Visa or Visa on Arrival options for Bosnian citizens, providing more flexibility for travelers:
- Armenia (120 days with eVisa or Visa on Arrival)
- Bahrain (14 days with eVisa or Visa on Arrival)
- Egypt (30 days with eVisa)
- India (30 days with eVisa)
- Kenya (90 days with Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Rwanda (30 days with eVisa or Visa on Arrival)
- Thailand (60 days with eVisa)
- Vietnam (90 days with eVisa)
Diplomatic and Official Passports
Holders of diplomatic and official passports from Bosnia and Herzegovina may enjoy additional privileges in certain countries:
- Belarus (30 days)
- China (90 days)
- Egypt (90 days)
- Israel (90 days)
- Japan (90 days)
- Kazakhstan (30 days)
- Lebanon (30 days with Visa on Arrival available)
- Russia (90 days)
Non-Visa Travel Restrictions
While visa-free travel is convenient, Bosnian citizens should be aware of other potential travel restrictions:
-
Passport Validity: Many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay. Some countries have shorter requirements, such as 3 months for EU countries.
-
Blank Passport Pages: Ensure your passport has enough blank pages, typically one or two, as required by many countries.
-
Vaccination Requirements: Some countries, particularly in Africa, require proof of vaccination against diseases like Yellow Fever.
-
Criminal Record: Certain countries may deny entry to individuals with criminal records.
-
Biometric Data Collection: Some countries collect biometric data (fingerprints, photographs) upon entry.
Passport Validity: Many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay. Some countries have shorter requirements, such as 3 months for EU countries.
Blank Passport Pages: Ensure your passport has enough blank pages, typically one or two, as required by many countries.
Vaccination Requirements: Some countries, particularly in Africa, require proof of vaccination against diseases like Yellow Fever.
Criminal Record: Certain countries may deny entry to individuals with criminal records.
Biometric Data Collection: Some countries collect biometric data (fingerprints, photographs) upon entry.
Planning Your Trip
When planning a trip using visa-free access, consider the following:
-
Check Current Regulations: Visa policies can change. Always verify the most up-to-date information with the embassy or official government website of your destination.
-
Duration of Stay: Respect the allowed duration of stay to avoid overstaying and potential penalties.
-
Purpose of Visit: Visa-free access is typically for tourism or short business trips. Other purposes may require a visa.
-
Proof of Funds: Some countries may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
-
Return Ticket: Having a return ticket or onward travel booking may be required for entry.
-
Travel Insurance: While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended.
Check Current Regulations: Visa policies can change. Always verify the most up-to-date information with the embassy or official government website of your destination.
Duration of Stay: Respect the allowed duration of stay to avoid overstaying and potential penalties.
Purpose of Visit: Visa-free access is typically for tourism or short business trips. Other purposes may require a visa.
Proof of Funds: Some countries may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Return Ticket: Having a return ticket or onward travel booking may be required for entry.
Travel Insurance: While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended.
Conclusion
The Bosnian passport offers its holders significant travel freedom, with access to diverse destinations across the globe. From the beaches of Southeast Asia to the historical sites of Europe, Bosnian citizens can explore a wide range of countries without the need for a visa or with simplified entry procedures.
As Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to strengthen its international relations, the list of visa-free destinations is likely to grow, further enhancing travel opportunities for its citizens. However, travelers should always stay informed about the latest regulations and requirements to ensure smooth and enjoyable international journeys.
Remember, while this guide provides a comprehensive overview, it’s crucial to verify the most current information with official sources before planning your trip. Happy travels!
Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Bosnia_and_Herzegovina_citizens [2] https://getgoldenvisa.com/passport/bosnia-and-herzegovina [3] https://www.mofa.gov.ae/en/missions/podgorica/media-hub/embassy-news/uae-bosnia-and-herzegovina-sign-mou-on-mutual-visa-exemption [4] https://embassies.net/bosnia-and-herzegovina-passport-visa-free-countries [5] https://www.guideconsultants.com/all-passports/bosnia-and-herzegovina-passport-visa-free-countries-list/ [6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Bosnia_and_Herzegovina_citizens
