Can you get residency in Montenegro by buying property? Requirements, process, and what property ownership enables.
Many buyers ask: can I get residency in Montenegro by buying property? Here's the complete picture.
No. Unlike some countries, Montenegro does not offer automatic residency through property purchase alone. However, property ownership supports a residency application.
Owning property in Montenegro allows you to apply for temporary residence. Here's the process:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee | €25 |
| Residence card | €35 |
| Document translations | €50-150 |
| Total | ~€110-210 |
Initial permit: 1 year Renewals: 1 year each After 5 years: Can apply for permanent residence
You can: - Live in Montenegro full-time - Open bank accounts more easily - Get a local phone contract - Access some public services - Avoid 90-day tourist visa limits - Build towards permanent residence
You cannot: - Work in Montenegro (need separate work permit) - Access free healthcare (need insurance) - Vote in elections - Get Montenegrin passport
The digital nomad visa is often easier:
| Factor | DN Visa | Property Residence |
|---|---|---|
| Requires property | No | Yes |
| Work remotely | Yes | Need separate permit |
| Duration | Up to 2 years | 1 year (renewable) |
| Income requirement | €3,500/month | Reasonable funds |
| Path to permanent | No | Yes (after 5 years) |
Best choice: Digital nomad visa for remote workers; property residence if you want to build towards permanent status.
Montenegro has a separate citizenship-by-investment programme:
Requirements: - €450,000 investment in approved development (northern region) OR - €650,000 investment in approved development (coastal region) - Plus €100,000 government donation - Clean background checks
Benefits: - Direct citizenship (not residency) - EU visa-free travel - Possible future EU citizenship (when Montenegro joins)
Note: This is separate from regular property purchase. Only approved projects qualify.
For many property owners, residency isn't necessary:
To keep residence permit valid: - Don't be absent more than 6 months continuously - Renew on time (apply 2 months before expiry) - Keep address registered - Maintain health insurance
Yes. Property ownership doesn't require you to live in Montenegro. You can visit as a tourist (90 days in 180 days for most nationalities).
No. Foreigners can buy property without any visa or residency.
Yes. Family members can apply for family reunification residence if you have valid residence. Each family member applies separately.
Eventually. After 10 years of legal residence (including 5 years permanent), you may be eligible for citizenship. It's a long path.
No, but it's a candidate country. Expected EU accession: 2028-2030. This will change residency rules significantly.
Property ownership in Montenegro supports but doesn't guarantee residency. The process is straightforward if you meet the requirements, but it's not a "golden visa" programme. Buy because you want the property, and treat residency as a useful bonus.
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