Residence Permit in Montenegro Through Property Ownership

Important notice: At the time of publication, the Government of Montenegro is considering amendments to the Law on Foreigners. These changes may affect the rules for obtaining a residence permit through property ownership. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information. Below are the rules currently in force.

What a Montenegro Residence Permit Offers

In recent years, Montenegro has become an increasingly attractive destination for obtaining a residence permit — not only because of its natural beauty and unique culture, but also due to the practical opportunities a residence permit provides. In 2024, a Montenegro residence permit allows you to live in a country with a mild climate and clean environment and offers opportunities for doing business.

• Residence rights. A residence permit grants the right to long-term stay in Montenegro. It is issued for one year and renewed annually. The renewal procedure is generally simple.
• Education and healthcare. A Montenegro residence permit provides access to public education and healthcare services. However, private medical insurance is still recommended.
• Travel opportunities. A Montenegro residence permit does not provide visa-free access to the Schengen Area, but it can simplify the process of obtaining tourist visas to European countries and the USA.
• Future EU perspective. Montenegro’s planned accession to the European Union may significantly increase the value of a residence permit by facilitating travel across Europe and access to EU markets.
• Financial convenience. Residence permit holders can open a bank account, purchase a car, and register it in their own name.

Residence Permit Through Property Purchase

• The residence permit is issued for one year and renewed annually. Extensions are usually straightforward.
• There is currently no minimum property value requirement. Ownership of at least a 50% share is sufficient.
• Eligible property types include apartments, houses, offices, and restaurants.

Foreign nationals cannot purchase:

• agricultural land;
• land plots larger than 5,000 m²;
• land plots located near the state border.

The property must be free of encumbrances:

• no mortgage;
• valid building permit;
• no ongoing court disputes;
• no outstanding tax liabilities.

Family Members Eligible for a Residence Permit

Along with the main applicant, the following family members may also obtain a residence permit:

• spouse;
• minor children.

Citizenship Through Property Ownership

Montenegro’s “golden passport” programme was closed at the end of 2022. At present, it is not possible to obtain Montenegrin citizenship through property purchase.

Documents Required for a Residence Permit Based on Property Ownership

Below is a brief list of documents typically required to apply for a residence permit through property ownership:

• copy of a foreign passport valid for at least three months beyond the residence permit expiry date;
• proof of registered address in Montenegro (“white card”);
• medical insurance valid for one month or longer;
• bank statement or proof of income;
• title deed (property ownership certificate);
• receipt confirming payment of the residence permit card fee;
• police clearance certificate from the applicant’s country of origin.

How Long the Process Takes

• Purchasing the property and preparing the documents usually takes 2–3 months.
• After that, the residence permit application is submitted.
• The authorities review the application within 40 calendar days.