Almost 10 years after the adoption of the Law on Tax Consultancy, on 14 February 2018 the Ministry of Finance adopted the Rulebook on Tax Advisers' Licenses (the Rulebook), which then entered into force on 22 February 2018.

The Rulebook prescribes conditions and procedures for obtaining a tax adviser's license and for registration of tax agencies. As a result, tax consulting may be provided by individuals or legal entities. Individuals may acquire a license once they pass a tax program and exam as prescribed by the Rulebook.

The exam for a tax advisor can be taken by a candidate who meets the following requirements:

  • University degree in the field of Economics or Law
  • At least five years of experience in the field of tax

The candidate must pass the examination in the following areas:

  • Administrative and tax procedures
  • The basis of the tax system and tax policy of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republic of Srpska, Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Brcko District
  • The basis of accounting and auditing
  • Commercial law
  • Public finances and financial law

Among other duties, a tax adviser's role includes:

  • Providing expert assistance in tax issues;
  • Representation before tax and judicial authorities in tax administrative procedures, tax disputes, appeals before the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Human Rights Court in Strasbourg; and
  • Acting as a court expert in front of public authorities.

Based on the Rulebook, the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Srpska will establish and maintain registers on tax advisers, tax consulting agencies and other tax professionals.

Since the fiscal sector and taxation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is becoming more complicated and complex, the adoption of this Rulebook is expected to bring numerous benefits to both taxpayers and tax authorities.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.