Montenegro Temporary Residence Permit Through Property Purchase (for third-country nationals (non-EU))

Important! As of January 2026, the new Law on Foreigners has entered into force in Montenegro, introducing changes to residence conditions based on property ownership. The rules below apply to third-country nationals (non-EU). If you are an EU citizen, different legal provisions apply — please contact us for an individual consultation.

What a Temporary Residence Permit in Montenegro Allows

Montenegro remains an attractive destination for long-term residence thanks to its climate, lifestyle and relatively straightforward administrative procedures. A temporary residence permit allows lawful stay in the country and enables you to manage essential legal and financial matters while living in Montenegro.

• Residence. A temporary residence permit grants the right to legally stay in Montenegro. It is issued for one year and may be renewed if statutory conditions are met.
• Education and healthcare. Provides access to public education and healthcare systems (valid health insurance is mandatory).
• Financial benefits. The permit holder may open a bank account, purchase a vehicle and register it in their own name, and conclude long-term contracts.
• Important. A residence permit based on property ownership does not automatically grant the right to work. A separate legal basis is required for employment.

Temporary Residence Based on Property Purchase

• The permit is issued for one year and may be renewed if legal requirements continue to be fulfilled.
• The law establishes a minimum value threshold for residential property in order to qualify for residence (the officially assessed value is taken into account).
• Only residential property — an apartment or a house — qualifies.
• Commercial property (offices, restaurants, etc.) does not constitute an independent basis for residence.
• The property must be designated and used for residential purposes.

Foreign nationals cannot purchase:

• agricultural land;
• land plots exceeding the statutory size limit;
• land located near the state border.

The property must be legally clean:

• no mortgage or encumbrances;
• valid construction permit;
• no ongoing court disputes;
• no outstanding tax liabilities.

Who Among Family Members May Obtain Residence

• spouse;
• minor children.

Documents Required for Residence

• copy of a valid passport (valid at least 3 months beyond residence expiry);
• proof of registered address (“white card”);
• medical insurance (minimum 1 month);
• bank statement or proof of income;
• title deed (proof of ownership);
• proof of payment of the administrative fee;
• police clearance certificate from the country of origin.

How Long the Procedure Takes

• Property purchase and preparation of documents: typically 1–3 months.
• After ownership registration, the residence application is submitted.
• The review period established by law may last several weeks.