Residency in Montenegro
Become a Resident in Montenegro
Montenegro offers streamlined residency pathways for individuals seeking a European base. You can qualify either by establishing a local business or via property ownership-or in some cases, even via a marina mooring agreement.
Why Montenegro?
This country combines majestic mountain landscapes, a scenic Adriatic coastline, and historic towns, all at a relatively low cost of living. Montenegro also has favorable tax rates, including 9–15% corporate and personal income tax, a 15% capital gains rate, and a 15% dividend tax.
Residency Options
- Business / Company Formation Route
You set up a Montenegrin company (single founder sufficient, minimal capital requirement)
- You become director, and through that role, apply for temporary residency for yourself and eligible family members
- This route typically offers greater flexibility in travel and time spent outside the country than the real estate route
- Real Estate Ownership Route
Residency may be granted if you own residential or commercial property in Montenegro
- This can serve as a “Plan B” for many—owning property gives you a claim to residency rights
- However, in practice, longer periods outside the country may risk permit revocation under this route
- Mooring / Marina Contract Route If you hold a valid mooring contract (e.g. for a yacht or boat) with a Montenegrin marina, you may qualify for residency based on that contract
- Required Documents & Process:
To apply, you’ll need:
-
- Valid passport
- Criminal record certificate (issued within past 6 months; apostilled or certified as needed)
- Marriage certificate (for spouse) / birth certificates (for children)
- Educational diploma (proof of minimum schooling; details vary)
- For real estate route: property title deed
- For company route: incorporation documents and evidence that you’re the director
- Medical insurance
All foreign documents must be officially translated into Montenegrin and, where applicable, apostilled or legalized
The process generally takes about 45 days, though it involves dealing with Montenegrin immigration bureaucracy.
- Duration, Renewal, and Citizenship:
The initial residency permit is temporary, valid for one year and renewable annually.
Permanent residency may be applied for after five consecutive years of holding temporary permits.
Citizenship eligibility generally follows further years of residency (often a total of ten years), subject to meeting all legal requirements.
Why Use Our Services?
At The Passport Investor, we assist with every step-document preparation, applications, translation, company registration, banking, and on-site support. Our local partners in Montenegro simplify interactions with authorities, helping to ensure a smoother, more secure pathway to residency.