Features of buying real estate in Montenegro for Russians: step-by-step guide and transaction nuances

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In 2025, buying real estate in Montenegro remains one of the most affordable and sought-after investment options abroad for Russians. The relatively simple procedure, lack of restrictions, transparent registration, and favorable treatment of foreigners make the country attractive for investors, families, and those looking to change their country of residence without complex bureaucratic procedures. Montenegro is not part of the EU, but is in the process of Eurointegration, which increases the investment attractiveness of the local market.

Why Invest in Real Estate in Montenegro?

Stable prices, low entry threshold, high tourism potential, and solid rental yields make the country attractive for investors. In coastal areas, annual profit from short-term rentals reaches 6–8%, while property value growth remains stable at 5–7% per year.

Key advantages include lack of restrictions, direct ownership without the need for trusts or nominal owners, simplified registration system, soft tax regulation, and affordable fees.

Buying real estate in Montenegro remains one of the simplest and legally secure ways of investing in Europe for Russians, even in conditions of international instability.

Where to Buy Real Estate: Regions and Property Types

Montenegro offers several geographical zones with different infrastructure, costs, and purposes. Most Russian buyers prefer the coast — combining a mild climate, access to the sea, and developed rental opportunities. Tivat and Bar are suitable for permanent residence, Budva and Herceg Novi for leisure, and the north of the country or the islands of Lake Skadar for tranquility and nature.

Buyers have access to all types of properties: apartments, villas, houses, land plots, or commercial spaces. Owning real estate not only provides comfort but also the opportunity to apply for residency, start a business, or rent out to tourists. This approach is especially relevant for those considering where to live in Montenegro, combining personal residence with investment benefits.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Real Estate in Montenegro for Russians: How to Buy Correctly

The procedure is simple and overseen by a notary and lawyer. No separate permission is required. The transaction is completed within 3–6 weeks if all conditions are met. Foreigners are not restricted from buying real estate in Montenegro — ownership for personal use is allowed. Land plots can be acquired through opening a company.

The main steps of the purchase:

property selection through a real estate agency or independently;
signing a preliminary contract with specified conditions;
legal verification, obtaining a tax identification number, opening a bank account;
signing the main contract with a notary, registration of rights;
payment of state fees and property transfer tax.

Each step should be accompanied by legal support, especially if the property is on the secondary market or has encumbrances. Also, consider the language factor — many documents are in Montenegrin and require certified translations.

Documents Required for Buying Property

To complete the transaction, a minimal set of documents is required. All papers must be submitted in original with a notarized translation. The absence of a visa does not hinder the transaction, and obtaining a tax identification number takes just one day. Buying real estate in Montenegro involves straightforward bureaucratic procedures, making the process quick and accessible for Russians even during short stays in the country.

Additionally, consent of the second spouse is required if the purchase is made within marriage. Mandatory documents include a passport, tax identification number obtained in Montenegro, a sales contract drafted by a lawyer, a bank transfer payment certificate, notarization of the transaction, and registration in the cadastre.

The buyer receives an extract from the cadastre and becomes a full-fledged owner, possessing the same rights as the country’s citizens. Residency permit applications can be submitted immediately after registering the property in one’s name or under a legal entity. In the future, with conditions met, the path to permanent residency and citizenship becomes open, especially with long-term residence and stable income.

Expenses When Acquiring Property and Taxes

The financial aspect of the transaction includes several mandatory payments. The main property transfer tax is 3% of the amount specified in the contract. Additionally, fees for notary services, lawyers, registration fees, and translators are paid if parties speak different languages. Typical expenses include:

property transfer tax — 3% of the value;
notary services — from 200 to 500 euros;
cadastre registration — up to 150 euros;
lawyer services — from 500 to 1000 euros;
bank transfers — up to 1% commission.

Overall additional expenses during the process can reach 5–7% of the property price. Payments are made in euros, requiring prior opening of an account in a local bank. Additionally, documents confirming the source of funds need to be prepared, especially for amounts exceeding 15,000 euros. These conditions accompany buying real estate in Montenegro and are important to consider when planning the budget for the transaction for Russians.

Procedure of Buying Real Estate in Montenegro for Russians and Residency

Russians benefit from a simplified acquisition scheme: they can own property registered to an individual or open a company to purchase land or commercial property. After property registration, applying for residency is allowed, provided a business is opened or income is confirmed. The standard procedure includes:

company registration in Montenegro;
submitting documents to the Ministry of Interior: passport, certificate of no criminal record, medical insurance;
confirmation of residence address — through property purchase or rental;
issuance of a temporary residency permit for 1 year with the right of extension.

After five years of residence in the country, it becomes possible to apply for permanent residency, and with language and financial conditions met, for citizenship. Montenegro does not require renunciation of an existing passport, making buying real estate in Montenegro even more attractive for Russians as a first step towards legalizing status and obtaining a second citizenship.

Buying Real Estate in Montenegro for Russians: Conclusions

For Russians, buying real estate in Montenegro remains a reliable way to not only acquire property by the Adriatic Sea but also gain opportunities for long-term residence, rental income, business registration, and migration prospects. The combination of easy processing, reasonable prices, European lifestyle, and the country’s openness makes Montenegro one of the best destinations for those seeking stability, a warm climate, and opportunities within Europe.

ВНЖ в Черногории при покупке недвижимости: все, что нужно знать в 2025 году

The Balkan Peninsula continues to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and families interested in a calm, safe, and accessible European jurisdiction. One of the most straightforward paths for foreigners is obtaining a residence permit in Montenegro through real estate purchase. The procedure remains relevant in 2025, combining the flexibility of immigration legislation, moderate price thresholds, and the possibility of further legalizing one’s status.

Legal grounds for obtaining residency

A citizen of another country can obtain a residence permit by purchasing real estate in Montenegro. The law allows applying for residency in Montenegro based on real estate ownership even without employment obligations. It is important that the property is suitable for living or entrepreneurial activities and is registered in the state cadastre.

The key requirement is proof of actual residence in the country. The residence permit is issued for one year with the possibility of extension. After a five-year period, permanent residency can be obtained, followed by eligibility for citizenship subject to additional conditions.

Housing requirements and ownership categories

The legislation does not restrict applicants in the type of real estate. It can be either residential or commercial property. The main criteria are legal grounds for ownership, absence of encumbrances, and compliance with minimum sanitary and technical requirements. It is also possible to purchase shares or multiple properties if they are registered under individual ownership.

Residency through real estate purchase implies that the owner can reside in Montenegro legally along with immediate family members. Spouses and children can be included in the application, with each person receiving a separate document and individual status.

Stages of obtaining residency in Montenegro through real estate purchase

To understand the procedure, it is necessary to grasp the process structure—from property selection to the final decision of the immigration authority. All steps require careful adherence to deadlines and proper documentation. The residency acquisition algorithm includes:

signing a sales contract with property registration in the Registry;
opening a bank account;
registering at the place of residence and confirming actual presence in the country;
preparing and submitting a document package to the immigration service;
undergoing fingerprinting and photography;
waiting for residency application approval.

Legal support is required at all stages. It is especially important to ensure the correctness of document translations and the validity period of notarial certifications. Residency through real estate purchase does not require proof of employment, making it a convenient option for retirees and remote professionals in Montenegro.

Required document set

Documentary formalities play a crucial role. Authorities demand a complete and up-to-date package; otherwise, the review process is halted. The standard set includes both personal documents and property rights confirmation. The basic list comprises:

valid passport with a copy;
property ownership document issued by the cadastre service;
certificate of no criminal record;
medical certificate of health status;
proof of residence address;
receipt of state fee payment;
standard application form;
photos and migration card form.

Residency in Montenegro through real estate purchase is granted only after submitting all the aforementioned documents. The process takes from 30 to 60 calendar days, depending on the workload of the authorities.

Financial aspects and taxes

Housing costs vary depending on the region. For instance, prices in Podgorica or Kotor are higher than in provincial towns. In Montenegro, there is no minimum price threshold for participating in the residency program through real estate purchase in 2025, but for practical procedure implementation, it is recommended to consider an amount starting from 50,000 euros.

Additional expenses include notary services, fees, and an annual property tax (within 0.1-1% of the cadastral value). Opening a bank account at a local institution is also considered a mandatory requirement. The absence of taxes on income earned outside the country makes Montenegro particularly attractive for investors.

Advantages and prospects for residents

Obtaining resident status allows living in the country year-round, using internal services, entering into contracts, educating children, and receiving medical services. Despite not being part of the Schengen Area, Montenegro officially aspires to EU membership, making immigration particularly promising.

Residency through real estate purchase is not just a way to move to Montenegro but also an opportunity to establish a base for further integration into Europe. The legal regime is favorable, the processing time is short, and the procedure is fully transparent. Among the advantages are a stable financial system, pleasant climate, accessible education, and healthcare.

Living with family: stress-free relocation

Relocating with the whole family is possible provided ownership of real estate and approval for each applicant. Domestic legislation supports family reunification, and the country’s infrastructure is adapted to international standards. Foreigners have the right to enroll children in schools, enter into banking agreements, and establish commercial enterprises.

The country has a high level of security, and the language barrier is minimal due to the prevalence of English and Serbian. This makes residency through real estate purchase a convenient choice for long-term living in Montenegro.

Residency in Montenegro through real estate purchase: key points

Residency through real estate purchase remains one of the simplest and most accessible programs for legal relocation to Montenegro. The legislation offers a transparent procedure, moderate requirements, and a quick processing time. Real estate ownership becomes the basis for application submission without the need to obtain work permits.

For investors, families, and those planning to live in the country long-term, it is an optimal path with the possibility of subsequent permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

August 20, 2025

Best cities in Montenegro to live in: where to move in 2025

Montenegro is a small but diverse country where Mediterranean tranquility coexists with business opportunities, comfort, and harmonious living. That’s why immigration has become popular among those seeking a warm climate, affordable real estate, and quality infrastructure. However, before moving to Montenegro for permanent residence, it is important to study the specifics of each region, as the terrain in Budva and Herceg Novi offers two completely different scenarios.

Let’s explore the best cities in Montenegro for living, evaluating their convenience for children, retirees, entrepreneurs, and those who simply want to change the pace of their daily lives.

Podgorica — the capital and business center

The metropolis is ideal for those who want to live in the heart of the country and appreciate good transportation accessibility. Here you can find an international airport, universities, shopping centers, and a large number of job opportunities.

Podgorica is not a resort, so there is no tourist hustle and bustle here, and real estate is cheaper than in coastal cities. However, it can get hot here in the summer, and the lack of nearby sea may be a downside for beach lovers.

Budva — for the active and ambitious

The resort is the epicenter of Montenegro’s tourist freedom. If you value entertainment, dynamics, cafes, restaurants, and beautiful beaches, Budva is the perfect place to live. However, it’s worth noting that it gets overcrowded with tourists in the season, and in winter, the area noticeably quiets down.

Bar — convenience and accessibility

Bar is considered one of the most convenient cities for permanent residence. It combines infrastructure accessibility and the sea with a measured way of living. There are many schools, good shops, medical facilities, and no excessive hustle and bustle. The region is perfect for living with children.

Tivat — elite comfort

The region is suitable for those seeking a high level of comfort and are willing to invest in Montenegro’s real estate. It is home to the elite area of Porto Montenegro, popular among yachtsmen and businessmen.

Tivat has an airport, making it convenient for frequent trips. However, property prices here are higher than in most other settlements in the country.

Kotor — an ancient region with a special atmosphere

If you dream of living in a medieval center surrounded by mountains, Kotor is an excellent choice. The city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts those who appreciate architecture, history, and secluded areas.

However, Kotor can be expensive for purchasing property, and its narrow streets and high humidity may not suit everyone.

Herceg Novi — tranquility and nature

The town is famous for its microclimate, considered beneficial for health. There are fewer tourists here than in Budva, and property prices are moderate.

For retirees, the region is ideal — the measured pace of the streets, developed healthcare, and beautiful landscapes create comfortable living conditions.

Cetinje — cultural center

The city is considered one of the best for a peaceful life and is suitable for those who love art and history. It was the capital of Montenegro and still retains its status as a cultural center. Here you can find museums, theaters, and historical landmarks.

However, it’s worth noting that it can be cooler in Cetinje in winter than in coastal cities, and the level of tourist activity is lower.

Ulcinj — for those seeking peace and space

The region is one of the most unique. Influenced by Albanian culture, Ulcinj offers long sandy beaches and a special atmosphere.

Property prices in Ulcinj are lower than in Budva or Kotor, but it’s important to consider that there is less Russian-speaking population here, and the infrastructure is not as developed as in larger centers.

Factors to consider when choosing the best city in Montenegro for living

Relocating is a serious decision that requires careful analysis. The key is to determine the criteria that will help you understand which cities in Montenegro are suitable for your relocation:

climate — the coast (Budva, Bar, Kotor, Tivat) offers mild winters and warm summers, but with high humidity. In mountainous areas like Cetinje, it can be quite cold in winter;
residence permit application — for long-term residence in the country, a residence permit is required. The most popular way to obtain a residence permit is by opening a company or purchasing property;
real estate in Montenegro — property is cheaper than in most European countries, but prices vary significantly. If your budget is limited, consider Bar or Ulcinj — here you can find housing at reasonable prices. In Tivat and Budva, property is more expensive, especially in elite areas like Porto Montenegro;
medical insurance — state healthcare in Montenegro leaves much to be desired, so many expats use private clinics. If you have chronic conditions, check in advance which medications are available in local pharmacies and whether they can be purchased without a prescription;
Russian-speaking community — in major centers like Budva, Tivat, Bar, and Podgorica, there are many Russian-speaking immigrants. They create communities on social networks where you can find useful advice, contacts for lawyers, real estate agents, and like-minded individuals.

Relocating to Montenegro is an opportunity to live in a country with stunning nature, a mild climate, and low expenses. However, it is important to carefully plan all the details in advance: choose a suitable region, arrange documents, understand healthcare and housing.

If you prepare thoroughly for the move, adaptation will be easy, and you will be able to enjoy living by the sea without worrying about everyday difficulties.

Conclusion

The choice of location depends on your priorities. If you are looking for developed infrastructure and job opportunities, Podgorica is suitable. Love the sea and entertainment? Consider Budva or Tivat. If comfort and tranquility are important, good options are Bar, Herceg Novi, and Ulcinj.

The best cities in Montenegro for living are those that meet your needs. The country offers a comfortable climate, affordable real estate, and a high level of safety. Relocating can be a great solution for those dreaming of a house by the sea with European comfort.

August 20, 2025