How to: Obtain temporary residency in Montenegro
Updated: May 2023
Many investors and expats from all over the World already call Montenegro their second home. Reasons for their migration are many, but for sure they were initially attracted by its perfect Mediterranean climate and easy-going lifestyle. As the result of our talk with several expats residing in Montenegro, we have discovered that for them Montenegro is perfect place to start and operate a business, to spend time here working as digital nomads, to settle down with their families and to retire.
Still, there are many that are aware of these reasons and are considering obtaining Montenegrin residency permit. However, due to the lack of centralized information and proper expert assistance, it might happen that they do not structure and plan their immigration process accordingly. That’s why in this article we have structured all required information, that will help you understand the basis for your migration to Montenegro. Of course, this might not be enough as each process is individual, but that’s why we are here on ground to assist you further.
Let’s assume that you want to visit Montenegro before you move further with residency application submission. Independent from whether you need touristic visa or not, here’s what you need to know:
Any foreigner is entitled to a stay of up to 90 days based on short-term stay visa (Visa C) or without visa. A foreigner who has resided in Montenegro for 90 days, may re-enter and reside in Montenegro after an expiry of the period of 180 days counted from the date of first entry.
These 90 days rule ensures that you have enough time to explore Montenegro and get ready for the application process.
If you are coming from the countries where Visa C is required – let that not discourage you, as we are there to help you get one!
Now when you are aware on which basis you can visit the country even before you receive residency, let’s move step further – here we’ll explain what type of residency permit exists and how you can become temporary or permanent resident of Montenegro.
Temporary residency permit
Temporary residence may be granted to a foreigner intending to stay in Montenegro for a period longer than 90 days for the purpose of:
· entrepreneurship, business & employment
· ownership of immovable property
· family reunification
· secondary education or study
· participation in programs of international student exchanges or other programs for the youth
· specialization, vocational training and practical training
· scientific research work
· medical treatment
· humanitarian reasons
· ownership of immovable property
· conducting religious services
According to our research and experience, the two most common ways that led to temporary residency permit are: ownership of immovable property or ownership of company in Montenegro.
If you are aiming to purchase property in Montenegro as investment and become resident on that basis, the most important document that you must possess in accordance with the Montenegrin Law is certificate of property ownership issued by the real estate cadaster. This certificate serves as the evidence of property ownership.
When obtaining residency through immovable property ownership, permit is issued for a period of 1 year with possibility of extension.
If you are aiming to operate a business in Montenegro and become resident on that basis, the most important document that you must possess is extract from Register of Legal Entities of Montenegro, proving that you are 100% owner of Montenegrin company or proving that you have an employment contract with Montenegrin company in accordance with Montenegrin Law.
When obtaining residency through company incorporation / ownership or employment, permit is issued as well for a period of 1 year with possibility of extension.
Other purposes mentioned above are rarely base for residency permit. And when they are, the applicant is advised case by case, as the documentation required and procedure undertaken might depend on different factors.
However, whether applying for residency permit through property or company ownership, additional documentation and procedure is required. This means that beside mentioned certificates as proofs of ownership, following must be collected by the applicant:
· Proof of accommodation
· Health insurance
· Valid foreign travel document
· Clear criminal record certificate
· Certificate of highest achieved education
All these documents must be collected with the special attention to administrative procedures and details. And that’s why it is always recommended to have properly experienced advisor to undertake these actions in your name.
Once all documentations are collected, the next step is submission of documents to required authorities. According to Montenegrin Law, the submission of documentation must be done in person by applicant. But we are there to always follow you and ensure that the entire process goes smoothly.
Here comes in addition one frequently asked question regarding the expiration of 90 days and overlap with application submission period, so you should know that the rule is following: A foreigner who submits a complete application for temporary residence before the expiry of 90 days of stay may stay in Montenegro until the final decision.
What is the deadline for decision on application?
Usually, the application is processed and approved / denied in aprox. 40 days from the day of complete application submission.
How long is the temporary permit valid?
For a period of one year.
What happens when the residency is about to expire?
The residency can be extended. Application for extension should be submitted 30 days prior to expiration of valid residency permit.
When does an applicant get the right to apply for permanent residency?
After 5 consecutive (uninterrupted) years in Montenegro.
We hope this guideline article helps you to create better picture of how the road to temporary residency looks like. However, the procedure is slightly complicated and should be analyzed and adapted case by case. Thus we invite you to schedule consultancy hour with us and we will find the best fit to your immigration needs and support you with entire process!
Author
Bojana Minic
Managing Director | Rufil Consulting Montenegro
How to get in touch with us?
minic@rufil-consulting.com | www.rufil.me | +38267555715 | Viber | Whatsapp | Telegram