The deadline for submitting applications to legalize illegal structures in Serbia is set to expire at midnight on October 24, 2026. This marks the end of an extended period for citizens who were unable to meet the initial deadline due to valid reasons, such as illness or administrative obstacles. The process is part of the “Svoj na svome” law, which aims to regularize properties that have been constructed without proper permits.

Citizens can submit their applications electronically through the “Svoj na svome” app or physically at designated local government offices and post offices. In anticipation of a last-minute rush, local authorities have been advised to open special counters to facilitate the submission of applications on the deadline day. In Belgrade, the city administration has arranged for special counters to be operational at the Urban Planning and Construction Affairs office from 8 AM to 4 PM on October 24.

The legalization initiative began on December 8, 2025, with an initial deadline of February 8, 2026. It was designed to allow property owners to register their illegal structures, thereby enabling them to engage in legal transactions such as sales, inheritances, and securing mortgages. The law also facilitates legal connections to utilities and infrastructure. The costs associated with the registration process range from 100 to 1,000 euros, depending on the size and location of the property. Certain groups, including social welfare recipients, individuals with disabilities, veterans, single parents, and families with three or more children, are exempt from these fees.

As of the latest update, over 2.5 million applications have been submitted within the legal timeframe, with nearly 200,000 additional applications received during the extended period. The Minister of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure, Aleksandra Sofronijević, highlighted the success of the initiative, noting that 1.2 million confirmations have been issued and many properties have already been registered, providing owners with formal ownership rights.

Despite the reported success, the process has faced criticism and skepticism. The Democratic Party has argued that the law disproportionately benefits those with connections to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and has failed to curb illegal construction effectively. Concerns have also been raised about transparency, with allegations of corruption within the land registry offices, where officials allegedly demanded bribes to expedite the registration process.

The “Svoj na svome” law includes provisions to prevent future illegal constructions by mandating that any new structures built without permits will be registered as state property. This measure aims to deter unauthorized building activities and ensure compliance with urban planning regulations.

The outcome of this legalization process could have significant implications for urban development and property rights in Serbia. By formalizing ownership, the law could enhance property market dynamics and provide legal security to property owners. However, the effectiveness of the law in preventing future illegal construction remains a topic of debate, with critics calling for more stringent enforcement and oversight to ensure compliance and fairness in the process.

As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to register their properties, thereby securing their legal rights and contributing to a more regulated and transparent property market in Serbia.