Publishers in Serbia can now submit Media Register applications online. The Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR) announced that electronic submissions became available through its e-services portal on 8 October 2026. A total of 17 administrative procedures in the Media Register have been digitized.
What changes for publishers?
Electronic submissions provide another way to handle registration matters without relying exclusively on previous filing methods. According to APR, the new information system is designed to simplify processing and data management. It does not mean registration requirements have been abolished, that applications are automatically approved, or that every procedure is free.
What do the 17 procedures represent?
The number refers to administrative procedures covered by the Media Register, not the number of newly registered news organizations. The system was modernized as part of the Digitalisation of the Business Environment in Serbia (D4BE) project, supported financially by the European Union and operationally by the World Bank. Its architecture also allows integration with the information system of the Ministry of Information and Telecommunications.
Where can applicants find the instructions?
APR has published online guidance in the media e-registration section of its official website. Before submitting, users should check the requirements for identification, documents, signatures, fees and the specific application type. Current APR instructions take precedence over informal guides.
Why does this matter for local media?
Remote filing could make administration easier for smaller publishers and multilingual newsrooms operating outside Belgrade. However, registration is separate from participation in public-interest media funding programs. Being listed in the register does not itself guarantee funding or accreditation.
What is still unknown?
The announcement does not quantify actual processing-time reductions, user adoption or rejection rates after the launch. Those outcomes will require future public data. SRBIJA NEWS will distinguish a service’s availability from measurable improvements in performance.
Primary source: APR / Government of Serbia, 9 October 2026.
Original reporting in Serbian: Online Media Register: 17 procedures.
Sources & corrections
SRBIJA NEWS identifies sources and updates information when available. If you notice an error or can provide verified local information, please contact the newsroom.
Send a correction or update