Property Purchase = Residency Permit
Under the January 2026 amendments to the Law on Foreigners, Montenegro grants a Temporary Residency Permit to non-EU nationals who own real estate with a tax-assessed value of at least €150,000. Key requirements:
- Property must have a tax-assessed value of at least €150,000 (as determined by the Tax Authority when calculating transfer tax — this may differ from the contract price)
- Applies to non-EU citizens (EU citizens may have different pathways)
- No nationality restrictions beyond the price threshold
Important: Always consult a licensed immigration lawyer for your specific situation. Requirements may change.
What You Get
- Temporary residency (privremeni boravak) — initially 1 year, renewable annually
- Right to live in Montenegro year-round
- Access to the healthcare system (with contributions)
- Ability to open bank accounts and register businesses
- No minimum stay requirement to maintain the permit
What You Don't Get (Yet)
- EU freedom of movement (Montenegro is not yet an EU member)
- Montenegrin passport (requires citizenship, typically 10 years)
- Permanent residency (requires 5 years of continuous temporary residency)
Application Process
1. Purchase property and complete title registration
2. Visit the local Foreigners' Unit (Uprava policije)
3. Submit: passport, title document, proof of accommodation (your property), application form, fee (~€50)
4. Collect permit within 15–30 days
Your lawyer can handle this process for you, typically €100–300.
Tax Residency Considerations
Having a residency permit does not automatically make you a Montenegrin tax resident. Tax residency requires spending 183+ days per year in Montenegro. Consult a tax advisor in your home country if this matters to your situation.
EU Accession
With EU accession expected around 2028, Montenegrin residency would evolve towards full EU rights. This is a major driver for early buyer interest from outside the EU.