The Montenegrin government approved amendments to the Law on Foreigners on November 12, 2025. The document tightens the requirements for obtaining temporary residence permits for two popular reasons: real estate and business.
The reason is clear. Almost 98,000 foreigners currently reside in the country, of which approximately 21,000 are Russians, according to Interior Minister Danilo Šaranović. For Montenegro, a small country with a population of 633,000, this is a significant burden. In Budva alone, where 26,500 local residents live according to the census, more than 21,000 foreigners are registered. The authorities have decided to restore order.
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Real Estate: New Bar at €200,000
The main change concerns property owners. Now, to obtain or renew a temporary residence permit, you must own a property worth at least €200,000. Previously, there were no property value requirements at all – you could buy a studio apartment for €30,000 and still receive a temporary residence permit. Those who have already obtained temporary residence under the old rules are given a transition period of exactly one year. During this time, you must either purchase additional property to reach €200,000 or prepare to leave the country. No deferments or relaxations are currently planned.
Business: 3 Employees and Strict Control
The second blow is to company owners. To renew their residence permit, a director or owner controlling more than 51% of the capital must hire at least 3 full-time employees. A key requirement: at least 2 of these 3 employees must be Montenegrin citizens.
You have 180 days to meet these requirements. If you fail to establish a real business with Montenegrin employees within six months, you will have to close the company, surrender your residence permit, and leave the country. The era of shell companies is ending.
At the same time, the Ministries of the Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Finance are strengthening the exchange of data on the entry and residence of foreigners. The goal is to identify illiquid and inactive companies owned by foreigners. If a company is inactive and fails to pay taxes, they will initiate a process to revoke its residence permit.
Who will not be affected by the changes
The law only affects real estate and business owners. Other categories (those who obtained residence permits through marriage, family reunification, or employment) continue to live under the previous rules. The requirements for them remain unchanged.
The procedure for digital nomads, IT specialists, and retirees with an income of €1,800 per month also remains unchanged – these categories are governed by separate regulations.
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Need help with a residence permit in Montenegro?
Montenegro’s new requirements pose serious questions for residence permit holders. If you were planning to obtain a residence permit in Montenegro or already have temporary residence, consulting with an immigration lawyer is essential. Our team of specialists will analyze your specific situation, assess the risks, and offer legal solutions. Submit a request. We will help you navigate the paperwork, transition periods, and find the optimal strategy for maintaining or obtaining Montenegrin residency.
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