Property in Montenegro with a residency permit
Montenegro, which means 'Black Mountains' in Latin, is one of the most picturesque locations west of the Balkan Peninsula. With its mild climate and pristine seas, it's no surprise that this country attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists yearly. It is also a popular destination for foreigners looking to purchase homes. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, European comforts, and peaceful lifestyle, Montenegro offers affordable prices for apartments and houses. These are just a few of the many advantages the Republic has to offer.
Any non-resident can obtain a local residence permit just by buying real estate in Montenegro. Owners of apartments, villas, country houses, and commercial properties can apply for a residence permit by providing documentation proving ownership of a property for sale in Montenegro.
One of the most appealing aspects of this opportunity is that even if you purchase a relatively inexpensive property, you can still obtain temporary residency in the country. Interestingly, unlike many other European nations, there is no minimum cost of property in Montenegro that needs to be met to obtain a residence permit.
Thus, a residence permit in Montenegro through property investment is a real opportunity to move to one of the most beautiful and comfortable European countries without any red tape.
Residence permit in Montenegro by buying property
Owning real estate in Montenegro and a residence permit provides special privileges to its holder:
- Foreign citizens with residence permits can easily open a bank account; this can be problematic for a regular tourist.
- Holders of residence permits are allowed to purchase cars and register them in their name.
- A temporary resident can undergo a free medical examination and treatment in the country. The same is available for their relatives if they have received a residence permit on the basis of family reunification.
- Children who have received a residence permit have the right to attend municipal kindergartens, schools, and universities on favourable terms.
- There is no need for a ‘visarga', i.e., leaving the country every 30 days. The residence permit is issued for up to one year and can be renewed. After five years of permanent residence, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.
Investment real estate in Montenegro
Citizens of other countries can buy and sell residential and commercial properties in Montenegro and rent them out. However, non-residents are prohibited from purchasing land plots of more than 5,000 m², agricultural land, forests, cultural monuments, and property located near the country's border.
Property prices in Montenegro are increasing every year, and rental prices are also increasing. Currently, the yield of apartments by the sea is 5–8% per annum.
- The average price of a flat is EUR 2,100 per square metre;
- The annual price increase with inflation in 2024 is 24%;
- Related transaction costs are approximately 3.02–19.02% (of the property's value).
The most expensive and sought-after property option is an apartment in Montenegro, for example, in such resort regions as Budva and Tivat. Housing is highly liquid here.
Buying villas in Montenegro can also be a promising investment for renting out or for your own comfortable stay in the high season. Premium-class property is in great demand both in the primary and secondary sales market.
One of the most popular investment models in the country is the management of apartments through special intermediary services. Such agencies provide a full range of services, including occupancy, renovation, and management of the property. Thus, properties in Montenegro for investment allow you to receive passive income and not waste time looking for tenants.
FAQ
Experts consider the following cities to be the most promising for investment:
- Budva;
- Kotor;
- Podgorica;
- Tivat.
Each has unique features, and your choice of a particular place depends on your investment goals and budget.
You can apply for Montenegrin citizenship if you:
- were born in the country;
- are a former citizen of Yugoslavia;
- have lived in the Republic for at least ten years on a residence permit or permanent residence;
- have not left the state within five years for more than ten months for the whole term or six months at a time;
- have not violated local laws during this period.
Setting up your own business, getting married, working, and studying in the country will be essential factors in obtaining a long-term residence permit in Montenegro.
Whilst there is currently no direct route to citizenship through investment, buying a home indirectly entitles you to do so. Investors are granted a passport through naturalisation after ten years of continuous residence in the country.