U Serbia According to Jelena Jevtović from the Union of Employers of Serbia, slightly more than 50.000 foreigners are employed workers, and that number is constantly growing. Most workers come from Russia, but also from China, Turkey, Nepal, Bangladesh, India and Cuba.
The Serbian economy has a great need for foreign labor, because there is a labor deficit in all sectors.
"A part of our people went abroad, and young people are not interested in studying for these professions. That's how a gap was created that we have to fill," Jevtović told RTS.
She stated that there is a lack of workers with lower qualifications and highly educated experts.
"Masons and ceramists are needed in construction, but also civil engineers. It is similar in other sectors," said Jevtovi'.
A simpler procedure for work permits
Amendments to the Law on Employment of Foreigners have been in force since last year, which simplified the procedure.
"Everything is submitted electronically, it is no longer necessary to go from counter to counter. Within a month, workers receive a unique residence and work permit for up to three years," stated Jevtović.
She added that workers can now change employers, which is equal to the rights of domestic workers.
Adjustment challenges and biases
Adaptation of foreign workers is not always easy, and the biggest obstacle is the language barrier, so employers often provide translators.
"Cultural differences are also present, but most of them do not plan to stay permanently, but come for a few months or years," explained Jevtović.
Although prejudices occasionally arise, she emphasizes that "foreign workers are a reality" and that Serbia, like other countries, must get used to their presence.
One of the steps towards adjusting the system is the list of deficit occupations, which should facilitate the employment of foreigners.
"That list has been completed and sent to the Government for adoption. It is planned to be adopted by the end of June, but for now we have no new information," said Jevtović.
