ECB: Serbia’s euro-transfer users could save by comparing SEPA options

On 3 November 2026, the European Central Bank (ECB) published an analysis of cross-border payments in six south-eastern European countries, including Serbia. Fewer than 40% of consumers surveyed had heard of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), according to the findings, also reported by Serbian broadcaster RTV.

What users should know

The ECB says around 9% of people in Serbia receive money from abroad, making remittance costs relevant to families and diaspora communities. Fees vary by country, provider and channel. Its examples put some cash-to-cash transfer fees at 6–12%, compared with 1.5–4.5% for certain digital non-bank transfers. These are research examples, not a standard schedule of fees for Serbian banks.

Serbia joined SEPA’s geographical scope in 2025. This did not automatically make SEPA payments available through every bank, nor does it guarantee that all transfers are free. Users need participating payment providers and suitable accounts; currency conversion may add further costs.

Anyone transferring euros should ask their bank whether SEPA is available for the relevant accounts, compare the final fee, check delivery times and consider exchange-rate costs. The ECB’s message is an opportunity to compare services, not a promise of zero-cost transfers.

Sources: ECB analysis; RTV / Tanjug, 3 November 2026.

Serbian original