Is Bosnia in Schengen or the EU?

The short answer is no. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not an EU member, is not in the Schengen area and does not use the euro. The details matter, though.

Bosnia and the EU

Bosnia and Herzegovina was granted EU candidate status in December 2022, and EU leaders decided in March 2024 to open accession negotiations. Full membership takes years and has no fixed date.

Can I enter Bosnia with a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is not a Bosnian visa. However, the Bosnian rules published at the time of writing allow some holders of a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa, or a valid residence permit of an EU country, to enter for a short stay without a Bosnian visa. These rules change, so check with the Bosnian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest embassy before booking.

Can I enter Schengen with a Bosnian visa or residency?

No. A Bosnian visa or residence permit is valid only inside Bosnia and Herzegovina. Some adverts suggest that Bosnian residency opens Europe; that is not correct.

Crossing into Croatia

Croatia is in both the EU and Schengen, so the land border is treated as an external Schengen border, with full passport checks and possible queues in summer.

Currency

The currency is the convertible mark, not the euro, although the mark is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate.

What it means for investors

Setting up a company or buying property in Bosnia is governed by Bosnian law and gives no status in the EU. The team at Alhosani Business Centre explains the steps as they really are.

Written in October 2026 as general information, not legal or tax advice. Conditions and fees change and differ between areas — confirm with the official body, a notary or an accountant before you decide.