How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship: current ways to do so

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Montenegro is more than a flag and a passport. It gives access to life on the border of Europe and the Mediterranean. Stable politics, the course towards European integration, soft taxes and quick procedures make the country a leader in terms of attractiveness of second citizenship. Figuring out how to obtain Montenegrin citizenship means building a route to free movement, investment and capital protection.

Legislative framework: terms and conditions

Montenegrin legislation is based on the Law on Citizenship No. 13/08 and regulations governing migration procedures. The system allows for naturalisation, investment programmes, acquisition on the basis of origin, marriage or long-term residence.

Conditions for obtaining Montenegrin citizenship:

legally reside in the country for at least 10 years;
have a basic command of the state language;
no criminal record;
confirm the legality of the sources of income;
comply with the norms of the Constitution and the law on citizenship.

The official migration service examines applications within 6 to 24 months, depending on the method of receipt.

Main ways of obtaining civil status

How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship depends on the initial situation of the applicant. The law defines several legal ways, each of which has specific requirements, documents and procedure for processing.

Naturalisation

Naturalisation requires a minimum of 10 years of legal residence, permanent residence status and proven integration into society. Passing a language test is mandatory. Features:

residence in the country for at least 10 years;
Having a residence permit (permanent residence);
passing an examination on language and legal system;
stable income and no offences.

Montenegrin citizenship through marriage

The spouse of a foreign citizen gets the right to apply 3 years after the registration of the marriage, provided that they live together. The law requires proof of a stable relationship, legal income and residence in the country.

Montenegrin citizenship by descent

A person born to at least one parent who is a Montenegrin citizen becomes entitled to a passport automatically, regardless of the country of birth. The law allows for an ascending line of descent with supporting documents.

Montenegrin citizenship through investment

The CIP (Citizenship by Investment Programme) allows you to obtain a passport for financial investments in the economy. It is required to contribute 100,000 euros to a development fund and additionally invest 200,000 euros in approved projects. The processing time is 6-8 months. Suitable for entrepreneurs, investors, capital owners looking for a second passport with the possibility of visa-free access to Schengen and Middle East countries.

How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship step by step

The algorithm depends on the chosen path, but each option includes mandatory formal procedures.

Key milestones and features:

Choice of grounds – marriage, descent, investment, naturalisation or service to the country.
Preparation of documents – passport, criminal record certificate, proof of income, language certificate.
Submission of the application – through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Internal Affairs, migration agencies or consulates (in case of investments).
Obtaining a residence permit – required upon naturalisation, usually through a residence permit after 5 years.
Integration into society – participation in the life of the country, legal income, compliance with legal norms.
Passing exams – knowledge of the language and the basics of the state system (in case of standard naturalisation).
Waiting for a decision – the review period is from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the basis.
Acceptance of citizenship – obtaining a passport, taking an oath, and processing documents.
Registration in registries – the final stage is inclusion in state databases.

Each step requires care, accuracy in documentation, and an understanding of local legal logic.

What documents will be required at all stages

How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship is not only a question of procedure, but also of a correctly executed package of documents. The requirements vary depending on the basis, but the basic list remains the same for all categories.

Required Documents:

a valid passport;
birth certificate;
proof of legal residence (residence permit or residence permit);
certificate of no criminal record from the countries of current and previous residence;
documents proving ancestry (if filing through family);
Marriage certificate (when processing through the family);
documents on investments (in case of economic grounds);
proof of income and employment;
Montenegrin language certificate (in case of naturalisation).

In addition, medical certificates, tax residency declarations, property ownership certificates and other documents may be required upon request of the migration authorities.

CoML, residence permit and transition phase

The process of obtaining the status of a citizen often includes an intermediate stage – registration of residence permit and permanent residence permit. A temporary residence permit is issued for up to one year and is subject to annual renewal. After five years of residence, permanent residence is issued.

To apply for a residence permit, you will need:

A lease or ownership agreement for the home;
health insurance;
source of income;
availability of a bank account.

Obtaining a residence permit becomes possible after 5 years of residence with a residence permit, subject to compliance with migration rules and permanent residence in the country for at least 183 days per year.

Dual citizenship

How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship without losing my first passport? The answer depends on the origin and basis. The law allows dual citizenship status, but limits it within the framework of ordinary naturalisation. Exceptions apply to those who formalise status through investment or who are of Montenegrin origin. Montenegro does not prohibit holding a second passport if there is an interstate agreement or as part of an investment programme. In practice, the authorities do not require automatic renunciation of previous civil status, but may request proof of legal status in another country.

Advantages of Montenegrin citizenship

Citizen status opens access to rights equal to those of local residents. It guarantees:

the right to visa-free travel to more than 120 countries;
participation in elections and access to public office;
investment incentives and tax advantages;
the right to social guarantees and medical care;
freedom of movement in the Balkan region and the EU (once the country joins the union).

A Montenegrin passport provides flexibility in international travelling. It allows you to live in a country with a developed infrastructure and a loyal tax system. Foreign citizens who have obtained the status receive full protection of rights, the ability to own real estate, do business and dispose of assets on an equal footing with locals.

How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship: conclusions

How to obtain Montenegrin citizenship is not just a formality, but a step towards freedom and investment opportunities. Transparent pathways through investments or family foundations make the process accessible. And a second passport opens up new perspectives without giving up your current citizenship status.

Buying property in Montenegro in 2025: everything you need to know

The formula “sun + sea + square metres” has long ceased to be associated exclusively with Spain or Italy. In 2025, the focus of investors has confidently shifted to the Adriatic. Buying property in Montenegro has turned from a spontaneous desire into a rational investment model. The reason is the rare combination of transparent rules, stable prices, low entry threshold and a legally understandable process. It does not promise miracles, but offers clear tools: asset, income, status and peace of mind in one transaction.

Why buying property in Montenegro is attractive

The market is changing direction. Southern Europe is no longer associated exclusively with Spain or Italy. Since 2023, the country has been steadily gaining momentum, and buying a home has moved from the category of exotic to a strategic norm. The reason is the symbiosis of visa freedom, tax advantages and geopolitical stability.

From 2022 to 2024, transaction volumes have increased by 38 per cent. The vast majority of transactions are from Russia, Germany, Israel, Turkey and Serbia. The main destinations are Budva, Tivat, Herceg Novi and Bar.

Geography and prices: where, how, how much and why

Port Tivat offers an elite format – from €4,000 per square metre. Budva holds the balance: €2,800-3,500 in new buildings with infrastructure. Bar remains democratic – €1,800-2,400 per square metre. Podgorica – the administrative centre – is not interested in tourists, but attracts corporate investments.

Property prices in Montenegro depend on the proximity to the sea, the number of storeys, the condition of the object and infrastructure. In 2025, the average purchase cheque is about €210,000 for a one-bedroom flat on the coast.

Stages of buying a property in Montenegro

Clear structure, minimal bureaucratic noise. The process is standardised, with 6 key steps:

Site Selection.
Verification of documents (ownership, absence of debts and encumbrances).
Signing of the preliminary agreement.
Notarised.
Payment.
Registration in the cadastre.

Each stage is accompanied by a notary, a licensed translator and a lawyer. All settlements are made in euros.

How to register a property in Montenegro

The notary certifies the sale and purchase agreement and sends it to the Cadastre and State Registration Centre. The following documents are required at the time of purchase:

Passport.
Passport (for foreigners).
TIN.
Extract from the cadastre.
Contract of sale.
Certificate of No Encumbrances.

The process is completed by registration in the Housing Registry, after which the title is issued. The term is up to 10 working days. When purchasing an object from a legal entity – 21% VAT is charged.

Real costs of the transaction

The financial part is not limited to the price of the object. Each contract is accompanied by an additional burden:

Notary services: 0.01-0.05% of the value.
Legal support: €500-1,000.
Interpreter: €30-€100 per hour.
Registration fee: €50-€150.
Annual property tax: 0.1-1%.

All costs are dependent on the specific municipality. There are no hidden commissions or mandatory agency fees – the market works transparently.

Peculiarities of the right: how to avoid encumbrances

Property inspections are a cornerstone. Before the transaction, it is imperative to make sure that there are no:

of litigation;
mortgages;
arrests;
hereditary risks.

Buying a property in Montenegro is allowed only if the history of the property is “clean”. Any encumbrance is recorded in the cadastre, which is available online. A request is processed in 24 hours.

Why investing: not a holiday, but a strategy

Property investment in Montenegro is an alternative to bank deposits and the stock market. Rental income on the coast – from 6% per annum. High season (June-September) provides loading up to 90% on short-term rentals. The cost of housing in the country since 2021 has increased by 21%.

In comparison, a flat in Croatia or Greece will bring 4-5% yield with a higher entry threshold and taxes.

Residence permits and more

Immigration to Montenegro through real estate is a simple and effective way. If you purchase an object from €50 000, you get a temporary residence permit for a year with the right to extend it. After 5 years – the opportunity to apply for permanent residence, and after another 5 years – citizenship.

From 2025, there is a simplified scheme for obtaining status for investors. It includes an accelerated background check and digital submission of documents.

Buying property in Montenegro: how not to make a mistake

It is important to strictly follow the instructions and the algorithm of actions. Violations may result in refusal to register the property or blocking the transaction. To reduce the risks, lawyers recommend:

Verify the authenticity of all documents.
Ensure that cadastral data is up to date.
Verify that the translation of the contract is correct.
Use only licensed professionals.

Professional support allows you not just to buy property in Montenegro, but to conduct the transaction without legal risks and financial losses.

How the owners of the Balkan state live

Life in Montenegro combines the measured rhythm of the coast and European-level infrastructure. Utilities are 2-3 times cheaper than in Western Europe. The level of security remains consistently high. Food, medicine, transport – within the affordable budget.

Buying property in Montenegro opens access to business, rent, residence permit. And most importantly – to a life without fuss in conditions of comfort and adequate regulation.

Conclusion

Buying property in Montenegro in 2025 is a conscious investment move that combines stability, profitability and comfort. The market is showing moderate growth, laws remain liberal and rentals retain potential. With the right approach, the purchase turns into a working asset.

May 21, 2025

Reasons to buy property in Montenegro: paradise on the coast

The combination of natural beauty and investment opportunities creates ideal conditions for living and holidaying. Property in Montenegro is a unique opportunity to become a part of a true Balkan fairy tale. Over 300 kilometres of coastline and 100 beaches – choose the right place for you.

An in-depth look at property in Montenegro

The country is characterised by high potential for investors and incredible conditions for permanent residence. The stunning climate with more than 240 days of sunshine a year, the clear waters of the Adriatic and favourable tax laws make the state one of the most attractive corners of Europe for buying property.

The average cost per square metre here at the end of 2023 was around 2000 euros, which is significantly lower than in neighbouring countries such as Croatia and Italy.

Why buy a flat in Montenegro?

Affordable accommodation by the sea – about Montenegro. The country attracts attention by the variety of offers: here you can find both modern flats with sea views and cosy flats in historical centres. Compared to other European countries, the cost of the area remains affordable, and the rate of price growth in the market is steadily increasing.

According to Global Property Guide research, the growth in property prices in the mountain kingdom in 2024 was 6.5%, which demonstrates the positive dynamics of the market.

Simplified process for foreign buyers: how to buy a flat in Montenegro

The country is actively developing its tourism and investment infrastructure, which allows it to generate significant rental income. In addition, the process of buying a flat is simplified for foreign citizens: the absence of restrictions on the purchase of housing for foreigners and the possibility of opening a residence permit for investments in real estate from 250,000 euros make this region particularly convenient for investment.

Property in Budva – the pearl of the coast

Perhaps the most famous city in the Balkan oasis, it is particularly popular with tourists and investors. Owning property here opens up access to one of the best holiday resorts in the country. Everyone will be able to find an option to suit any preferences – from elite villas with panoramic sea views to cosy apartments in the city centre.

Variety of offers

Budva attracts with its diversity: seafront promenades, restaurants, cultural events and historical sights make the city an ideal place for both living and renting. This is one of the main reasons why metres here remain in demand.

Investing in property will be an excellent investment. The average rental rate for an apartment in Budva during the tourist season reaches 100-150 euros per day.

Property in Montenegro for living: more than just a house

The climate is mild and the scenery is inspiring. The infrastructure is also top-notch, from educational institutions to medical centres, attracting not only retirees but also families with children. According to the World Health Organisation, the state is among the top ten countries with the best environmental situation in Europe.

The tranquillity and comfort of the Mediterranean

Moving to such a paradisiacal place is a chance to change the hustle and bustle of big cities for peace and quiet. Most of the residents enjoy nature and do sports. Everything here is created for a healthy and pleasant living. The average life expectancy in the country is 77 years, which is due to the ecologically clean environment, quality products and a calm rhythm.

Property in Montenegro from developer or secondary: what to choose?

The choice always depends on the buyer’s goals. Buying a new building gives the opportunity to get modern technology and high quality construction, and often includes bonuses such as parking spaces and gated areas. For example, new residential complexes in Tivat and Budva often offer gated club areas and swimming pools for residents.

Secondary housing, on the other hand, offers already established infrastructure and the possibility of immediate occupancy. Both options have their advantages.

For example, developer apartments can be ideal for those looking for a modern home with minimal renovation costs. Secondary properties, on the other hand, can be located in more established neighbourhoods where the necessary infrastructure, including schools, shops and medical facilities, is already in place.

Montenegro property investment: why is it profitable?

There are several reasons that all potential investors should definitely analyse.

Stable rental income

The Balkan fairytale is becoming a magnet for investors, and there are many reasons for this. The average rental yield is 5-7% per annum, and during peak seasons, revenues can increase significantly due to increased tourist traffic.

Favourable tax legislation

Moreover, the property acquisition tax is only 3% and taxes on rental income range from 9% to 15%, which is one of the lowest rates in Europe. Demand for properties is growing steadily, which means that the cost of housing will only increase. Investing here is not only a great way to preserve capital, but also to increase it.

How to get Montenegro’s Golden Visa through buying a property?

For those who want not just to purchase properties, but also to get additional benefits, there is the Golden Visa programme. The purchase of properties opens access to a residence permit and, later, citizenship. To obtain a Golden Visa, you need to purchase a property worth at least €450,000 in one of the priority regions of the country.

Advantages of the Golden Visa

“Montenegro’s Golden Visa allows free movement within the Schengen area and opens up many business and educational opportunities. The visa application process is simple and transparent, making this programme even more attractive for those considering a new place to stay or invest. The state plans to become a member of the European Union from 2025, which further increases the attractiveness of this programme.

It’s time to act

Whether it is a cosy flat on the coast or a villa overlooking the Adriatic, buying a property in this country opens the door to a world of tranquillity, beauty and new opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this story – property in Montenegro is already waiting for its owner.

May 28, 2025