Serbia’s benefited work experience: Extended pension credits for various professions

In Serbia, certain professions are eligible for “benefited work experience,” which means that every 12 months of work is counted as a longer period—ranging from 14 to 18 months—toward pension eligibility, depending on the job. This system, officially referred to as “insurance experience with increased duration,” applies to a variety of roles, from professional divers and ballerinas to firefighters and security guards.

Professions with the highest degree of benefited work experience

1. Performing Arts:
   • Professional ballerinas and ballet dancers: 12 months of work is counted as 18 months.
   • Opera singers: 12 months is counted as 15 months.
2. Aviation and Transportation:
   • Professional pilots: 12 months is counted as 18 months.
   • Teachers of motor flying and air gliding: 12 months is counted as 18 months.
   • Skydiving instructors: 12 months is counted as 18 months if they conduct at least 30 jumps per year.
3. Mining and Heavy Industry:
   • Coal miners: The highest increase is from 12 months to 18 months for positions like miner-site leader and digger.
   • Geological and mining research: The increase is from 12 to 15 months.
   • Non-ferrous metallurgy: Up to 16 months.
   • Foundries and forges: Up to 15 months.
4. Manufacturing:
   • Glass production: Up to 16 months.
   • Chemical industry: Up to 15 months.
   • Pharmaceuticals and textiles: Up to 15 months.
5. Public Safety and Health:
   • Firefighters: 12 months is counted as 14 months.
   • Chimney sweeps: 12 months is counted as 15 months.
   • Radiology professionals: 12 months is counted as 15 months.
6. Construction and Utilities:
   • Power line construction: Up to 15 months.
   • Cold storage workers: Up to 14 months.
7. Specialized Areas:
   • Nuclear plants (e.g., INN “VINČA”): 12 months is counted as 15 months.
   • Artistic and cultural roles: Ballet dancers see the highest increase, while folk dance performers in professional ensembles see 15 months for every 12 worked.
8. Other Notable Professions:
   • Professional drivers (e.g., truck drivers): Up to 14 months.
   • Production of explosives: Up to 16 months.
   • Workers in low temperatures: Up to 14 months.

This special consideration for pension benefits reflects the demanding nature of these professions, with the increased duration aiming to compensate for the often challenging and hazardous working conditions.