The use of VPNs in Serbia is currently legal for both residents and international visitors. There are no specific government regulations that ban or restrict the operation of Virtual Private Networks within the country. Individuals and businesses freely utilize these tools to secure their internet connections and protect sensitive data. While the state does not prohibit VPNs, users must still adhere to general laws regarding online behavior, as using these tools for illegal activities remains a punishable offense (1).
Despite the open legality, privacy concerns drive many to use encryption tools. The Constitution of Serbia provides for the inviolability of letters and other means of communication, but exceptions are permitted for criminal investigations and national security. The U.S. Department of State has noted that while there were no confirmed reports of the government monitoring private online communications without legal authority, the regulatory framework allows for such actions under specific court-approved conditions, prompting caution among privacy-conscious users (2).
"The government did not disrupt or restrict access to the internet during the coverage period, and it has no past record of imposing internet shutdowns amid elections or other national events. The infrastructure of internet service providers (ISPs) is not centralized."
The broader internet environment in Serbia is categorized as "partly free" due to challenges in media independence and reported cases of surveillance. Although the government does not engage in technical blocking of VPNs or social media platforms, the digital landscape is monitored. Recent reports highlight that while infrastructure remains open, the presence of data retention laws and sporadic targeted surveillance against activists encourages the routine use of VPNs for maintaining anonymity and digital security (1).
Source:
https://freedomhouse.org/country/serbia/freedom-net/2024
https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/serbia
Last updated: 15-01-2026 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
