Scam in SerbiaChanging money
Higher prices when paying in euros in Serbia
How it works
Some businesses accept euros, but the price can be higher than paying in dinars. This can cost you extra even without deliberate deception.
Warning signs
- You are offered a euro total without a clear dinar price.
- You cannot tell what conversion rate is being used.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the price in dinars.
- Pay in dinars for ordinary purchases.
- Exchange money at an official exchange office.
- If paying in euros, confirm the total and the currency of your change first.
If it happens to you
Check the receipt and ask the business to explain the conversion. Raise any difference between the agreed price and the amount charged.
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid arguing with an aggressive driver, tout or stranger. Call police on 192 if you are threatened.
- Check what is missing or what you were charged. Freeze affected cards and contact your card issuer promptly.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages and screenshots. Write down the time, place and what happened. Record vehicle details if relevant.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- For a Belgrade taxi dispute, contact the taxi operator and city inspection. Also contact airport inspection if the ride involved the airport.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen. Notify your insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
Questions
What is the higher prices when paying in euros scam in Serbia?
Some businesses accept euros, but the price can be higher than paying in dinars. This can cost you extra even without deliberate deception.
How can I spot it early?
You are offered a euro total without a clear dinar price. You cannot tell what conversion rate is being used.
How do I avoid higher prices when paying in euros in Serbia?
Ask for the price in dinars. Pay in dinars for ordinary purchases. Exchange money at an official exchange office. If paying in euros, confirm the total and the currency of your change first.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check the receipt and ask the business to explain the conversion. Raise any difference between the agreed price and the amount charged.
Where in Serbia does this happen?
Businesses that accept euros directly.
How common is this scam in Serbia?
Occasional. Serbia is generally safe for visitors. Taxi scams are common in Belgrade, and unregulated taxis can overcharge in Novi Sad too. Watch for pickpockets in crowds and on public transport, and be cautious around transport touts.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 192 for immediate police help. Report theft or suspected fraud at a police station and ask for a report or reference number. Taxi operator: for a disputed Belgrade fare, call the driver's taxi association and ask it to check the price for the distance travelled. Provide the booking and vehicle details. Belgrade city inspection: call +381 11 3227-000. Keep the roof-sign number, licence plate and a signed bill showing the date, time, route and price. Belgrade airport inspection: for taxi incidents on journeys to or from the airport, call +381 11 2097-373 or email taxi@beg.aero. Card issuer: use your banking app or your issuer's official contact number to freeze a card and report unauthorised charges. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Serbia?
Police: 192, Fire: 193, Ambulance: 194.
Reviewed by @snuck