Montenegro tightens residence permit rules — what has changed and where to go next
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Montenegro has raised the threshold for residency: €200,000 minimum property value, strict business rules, and enhanced checks. Learn about alternatives and how we can help you choose the best country.
For many years, Montenegro was considered an attractive destination for foreign investors and expats: relaxed requirements, relatively affordable real estate, and the possibility of obtaining a residence permit through property purchase or opening a business. However, at the end of 2025, the government introduced significant amendments that substantially tighten the conditions for obtaining and renewing residence permits.
These changes have become a serious signal for those considering Montenegro as an immigration option — but they do not mean that the doors are fully closed. On the contrary: now, more than ever, it is critical to approach the process strategically and with professional support.
This article explains what has changed, what risks have appeared, and — most importantly — what alternatives exist. If Montenegro has become less accessible, we will help you choose another country and residence program that fits your goals.
These changes have become a serious signal for those considering Montenegro as an immigration option — but they do not mean that the doors are fully closed. On the contrary: now, more than ever, it is critical to approach the process strategically and with professional support.
This article explains what has changed, what risks have appeared, and — most importantly — what alternatives exist. If Montenegro has become less accessible, we will help you choose another country and residence program that fits your goals.
What has changed: new rules for obtaining and renewing residence permits in Montenegro
- Minimum property value increased to €200,000. A residence permit based on property ownership can now be issued only if the purchased real estate is worth at least €200,000.
- Property must be officially registered and have an occupancy permit.
- Stricter requirements for business owners seeking renewal:
- at least 3 full-time employees, including at least one Montenegrin citizen;
- real and verifiable business activity.
- Strengthened compliance checks: police, tax authorities, and immigration services actively identify fictitious schemes.
- Transition period introduced: applicants who obtained a residence permit under the old rules have one year to comply with the new requirements.
Why this happened: motives behind the reform
- Cleaning the immigration system from fictitious applicants.
- Prioritizing real investments that create economic value — jobs, taxes, business activity.
- Alignment with EU standards as Montenegro prepares for EU accession.
Who is affected
- Foreigners who planned to obtain residency through low-cost property purchases.
- Owners of nominal businesses without real operations.
- Applicants expecting automatic renewals without obligations or investments.
If you were considering Montenegro — here are strategic alternatives
If Montenegro is no longer a viable option, consider alternative programs:
With our support you can:
Why professional support matters:
- Residency through investment or business: Portugal, Greece, Germany.
- Residency for freelancers and remote workers: Spain, Serbia, UAE.
- Residency via marriage, family reunification, or repatriation: Italy, Türkiye, Israel, Lithuania.
With our support you can:
- Evaluate goals, budget, and long-term prospects
- Choose the optimal country and residence route
- Receive full professional guidance — from document preparation to obtaining the permit
Why professional support matters:
- Immigration legislation is constantly changing — outdated information leads to refusals.
- Each country has its own nuances, requirements, and compliance checks.
- Professional case management significantly reduces risks and increases approval chances.
Conclusion
Montenegro’s abrupt tightening of immigration rules is not a dead end — it is a signal to rethink the strategy. Instead of attempting to adapt to rapidly changing rules in one jurisdiction, it is more pragmatic to choose the optimal country from the start with expert guidance.
We work with dozens of residency programs worldwide — and we will help you make the right choice.
Book a consultation — together we will select the country, program, and pathway that align with your goals, capacities, and long-term vision.
We work with dozens of residency programs worldwide — and we will help you make the right choice.
Book a consultation — together we will select the country, program, and pathway that align with your goals, capacities, and long-term vision.
Why do customers choose Visa Dan?
Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:
- Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
- Complete transparency and support at every stage.
- A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
- Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.
The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!