Buying real estate abroad for Russians: Housing prices, residence permits, and the best locations

1. Overseas Real Estate for Russians: Wealth Protection and the Path to European Residence

In a climate of economic and geopolitical turbulence, capital preservation and personal freedom of movement are becoming a priority for many Russian citizens. Traditional investment methods do not always guarantee stability, which is pushing investors to seek reliable assets outside the country. Buying real estate abroad for Russians today is not a luxury, but a strategically important tool that solves two critical issues at once: asset protection and migration planning.

View our catalog of overseas real estate for Russians, available for purchase in rubles and cryptocurrency, here: gomonte.me

Our website features properties in Montenegro from developers, on the secondary market, as well as premium apartments on the waterfront with panoramic sea views. You do not pay any additional agent commission.

Book a property viewing, get a property consultation, or request a residence permit from our manager: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

Strategic capital protection decisions require reliance on authoritative macroeconomic data. Eurostat (the Statistical Office of the European Union) is a key source of information on the dynamics of European real estate markets. According to its regular House Price Index reports for EU countries and accession candidates (including Montenegro), the stability of price growth in the eurozone and associated countries confirms the role of real estate as a powerful asset diversification tool. This independent data demonstrates that investing in international real estate not only preserves but also grows capital, especially when compared to high inflation and currency risks.

Current and detailed statistics on European housing markets, confirming the stability of international house prices, are available on the official Eurostat website: ec.europa.eu/eurostat.

1.1. Capital Protection and Financial Diversification

The main driver behind demand for foreign square meters is the desire for asset security.

Investing in real estate denominated in a hard currency (euro or dollar) instantly diversifies your portfolio. Unlike bank deposits or securities, real estate is a physical, tangible asset that is less susceptible to sanctions risks and sharp fluctuations in the ruble exchange rate.

• Diversification: By distributing funds between domestic and international markets, you create a powerful financial safety net.
• Value Preservation: Acquired housing not only preserves its value, but, if chosen correctly, can also increase capital through growth in the rental market or the value of the property itself. An analysis of current housing prices abroad shows that in a number of countries (for example, Montenegro, the UAE, or Turkey), the entry threshold remains extremely attractive, combining low costs with high growth potential.

1.2. Migration Strategy: Real Estate as a Basis for Residence Permits

The second, equally important aspect concerns freedom of movement and legal status. Foreign real estate is often the most reliable and legal basis for obtaining a residence permit for the entire family.

Many European and non-European countries offer residence permit programs through investment in real estate. This allows you to bypass the complex procedures for obtaining a work or student visa and immediately obtain residency, which is critical for a quick relocation:

• Direct path to a residence permit: Purchasing real estate in a country with this program automatically provides you with the legal basis to apply for a residence permit.
• Simplifying logistics: Owning your own property not only simplifies immigration procedures but also resolves registration and rental issues, making the adaptation process more comfortable and predictable.

Thus, purchasing real estate abroad for Russians becomes more than just a real estate transaction, but a comprehensive strategic decision aimed at financial protection and ensuring long-term stability abroad.

2. How to pay for a property purchase abroad in today's world

After selecting the ideal property abroad, the payment process becomes a key and often the most difficult step. Given current financial restrictions, traditional methods have ceased to work, forcing buyers to seek new, legal, and secure ways to transfer large sums. We'll explore how to pay for property abroad efficiently and without losses.

2.1. Bank Transfers (SWIFT): Limitations and Possibilities

The SWIFT system remains the primary tool for international transfers, but for Russians, its use poses a number of challenges:

• Limitations: Most major Russian banks are disconnected from SWIFT, and transfers from those that remain may be delayed or rejected by correspondent banks in Europe and the US.
• Solution through friendly jurisdictions: The optimal method is to transfer funds through banks in countries that have not joined the sanctions (Turkey, the UAE, Serbia, or some CIS countries). Opening an account in such a jurisdiction allows for legal currency conversion and international transfers.

2.2. Alternative Methods: Legal Schemes and Cash Payments

In cases where a direct bank transfer is not possible, proven and secure alternatives are used:

• Payment through third countries (company accounts): Using a foreign intermediary company or your personal account in an intermediary country to consolidate funds and then transfer them to the seller or developer. It is important that all transactions are completely transparent for financial monitoring.
• Payments in Cash: In some jurisdictions (for example, in the Balkans), paying a portion of the amount in cash through a bank or notary is permitted. This is a quick method, but requires special caution and legal support, as there are restrictions on the export of currency from the Russian Federation.

2.3. Innovative Solutions: Cryptocurrency and Ruble Payments

Amid traditional market challenges, new instruments are emerging:

• Payment in cryptocurrency: Some sellers, especially in countries with liberal regulations (such as Dubai), accept payment in stablecoins. This method ensures speed and minimizes the risks associated with intermediary banks. It is always necessary to verify the legality of such transactions in the country of purchase.
• Buying real estate abroad in rubles: This is only possible in exceptional cases, when the Russian and foreign banks servicing the seller have a direct agreement on settlements in national currencies. Currently, such schemes are extremely rare, but they are the most convenient solution for buyers from Russia.

Choosing a payment method requires careful legal planning. Engaging professionals specializing in international transactions guarantees transaction security and compliance with all financial control requirements.

At GoMonte, we accept cryptocurrency and rubles when purchasing a property in Montenegro. Contact our managers for more details: +382 67 322 888, Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

3. Where is the best place to buy real estate abroad? Montenegro is the choice.

When deciding to buy real estate abroad, investors are faced with a huge choice. Traditionally, Turkey, the UAE, or EU countries are considered. However, in recent years, Montenegro has rapidly emerged as a leader, offering a unique combination of stability, low taxes, and European prospects. Let's consider why real estate in Montenegro is the most pragmatic choice today.

3.1. Key Advantages of Montenegro: Economy and Status

Montenegro offers a range of advantages rarely found in a single country:

• Use of the Euro (€): The country officially uses the euro, ensuring the financial stability of your investments and simplifying all international transactions. You are protected from currency exchange risks associated with the national currency.
• Low Taxes: Corporate tax is only 9% (one of the lowest in Europe), and property tax is only 3%. This creates ideal conditions for doing business and generating passive rental income.
• EU Prospects: Montenegro is in the final stages of joining the European Union (EU). Buying real estate today is an investment in a future EU member, with prices that will inevitably rise after official accession.

3.2. Comparison: Easy Residence Permit vs. EU Golden Visas

The key difference between Montenegro and other European countries is the speed, simplicity, and affordability of obtaining a residence permit. And most importantly, you don't need any visas to enter!

Let's compare buying in EU countries under the EU Golden Visa program (for example, Portugal).

Residence permit threshold:

• Montenegro: Purchase of any residential property (no price limit).
• EU: Purchase of property worth €280,000 to €500,000.

Residence permit processing time:

• Montenegro: 3-4 weeks.
• EU: 6 months to 1 year.

Tax rate:

• Montenegro: Corporate tax 9%.
• European Union: Tax can reach 20-30%.

Therefore, if you're looking for the best place to buy property abroad to quickly obtain legal status in Europe, Montenegro offers the lowest entry barrier, high asset liquidity, and a clear European perspective. You'll enjoy European living standards and low taxes without the hassle of "Golden Visa" procedures.

4. Buying Property in Montenegro: Step-by-Step Guide and Price Overview

You've made your decision: you want to buy property abroad and have chosen Montenegro. But how do you buy property abroad legally and safely? This guide will guide you through every step of the transaction and give you a clear understanding of the cost per square meter of property in Montenegro.

4.1. How to Buy Property Abroad (Step-by-Step Guide)

The process of buying property in Montenegro is transparent and fast. It includes the following key steps:

• Property Selection and Reservation: Selecting an apartment or house, signing a preliminary contract (predugovor), and paying a deposit (kapara), which is usually 10% of the purchase price.
• Legal Due Diligence: A mandatory step during which your lawyer verifies the documents (list nepokretnosti - immovability list) are clear. This ensures that the property is free of encumbrances and debts and complies with all building codes.
• Signing the main contract (Ugovor): Signing the main purchase and sale agreement before a notary (notar). The transaction takes place in Montenegro. The notary is obliged to verify the legality of the transaction and fully oversee the transfer of funds.
• Payment: Transfer the remaining amount through a bank (see Section 2) or use other legal means. At the time of signing the contract, the notary confirms full payment.
• Registration of ownership: The notary independently submits the documents to the Cadastre (Uprava za nekretnine). From this moment, you officially become the owner, and the real estate register is updated.

4.2. How much does a square meter of housing cost in Montenegro? Price overview

Property prices in Montenegro vary greatly depending on the region, proximity to the sea, infrastructure, and type of property (new building or resale). Price analysis by key regions:

Budva Riviera (Budva):

• Budva is a tourist and investment center with the highest liquidity. The average price of new build properties here ranges from €2,200 to €3,500 and above per square meter. The resale market is generally more affordable, with average prices ranging from €1,800 to €2,500.

Kotor Bay (Kotor and Perast):

• This area is known for its unique historical architecture and cultural value. Properties here are more expensive due to exclusivity and high demand. New build properties are priced on average from €2,800 to €4,000+ per square meter, while resale properties range from €2,000 to €3,000.

Tivat and Porto Montenegro:

• Tivat is associated with luxury housing and the large yacht marina Porto Montenegro, as well as convenient logistics thanks to its proximity to the airport. Prices for new properties start at €2,500 and can reach over €4,500 per square meter. The resale market here typically ranges from €1,900 to €3,200.

4. Southern Regions (Bar and Ulcinj):

• These cities offer more affordable prices and are considered the best for year-round living due to their developed social infrastructure and large ports. Here, new buildings cost an average of €1,500 to €2,000 per square meter, while resale properties range from €1,300 to €1,800.

Important to remember: New buildings, although more expensive, often come with installment plans from the developer. The resale market offers a low entry barrier but requires particularly thorough due diligence. By investing in Montenegro, you're not just acquiring real estate but also obtaining a residence permit, making it one of the most attractive markets for Russian investors.

View the Montenegro property sales catalog at: gomonte.me

5. Legalization: How to Obtain a Residence Permit Abroad

For many, purchasing real estate abroad is, above all, the key to status and freedom of movement. When answering the question of how to obtain a residence permit abroad with minimal effort and expense, we inevitably come to Montenegro. This country offers the simplest and least bureaucratic legalization mechanism in Europe.

5.1. Montenegro Residence Permit through Real Estate Purchase

Montenegro's main and undeniable advantage is the absence of strict property value requirements, making residence permits accessible to a wide range of investors.

• Requirements: No minimum value threshold. Unlike EU Golden Visa programs, which require an investment of €250,000 to €500,000, in Montenegro it is sufficient to purchase any residential property, regardless of its price. This can be a small studio or a large house – the main thing is that the property must be residential.
• Process: Minimal bureaucracy, fast turnaround times. The processing time for a residence permit (boravaka) through real estate is typically 3-4 weeks from the time the complete set of documents is submitted. This is one of the fastest in Europe. The residence permit is issued for 1 year with the possibility of annual renewal.

5.2. Required Documents

The residence permit application process requires the preparation of a clear and complete set of documents. The success of legalization is 99% dependent on the proper preparation of this set of documents.

The main documents include:

• Certificate of Non-Property (List Nepokretnosti): The main document confirming your ownership of real estate in Montenegro. Issued by the Cadastre.
• Certificate of No Criminal Record: Must be obtained in your country of citizenship (Russia) and legalized (apostille) with subsequent translation into Montenegrin.
• Medical Insurance: Must be issued in Montenegro for the entire duration of the residence permit.
• Proof of financial solvency: A statement from a Montenegrin bank confirming the minimum required amount (€3,650, calculated as €10 per day for a year).
• Passport: A valid document whose validity must exceed the requested residence permit.

Residence permitting through the purchase of real estate in Montenegro is the most direct, legal, and financially advantageous answer to the question of how to purchase real estate abroad and obtain European status.

6. Best Locations for Buying Property in Montenegro: Where to Invest?

Choosing a specific city or region in Montenegro should be based on your goals: are you seeking prestige and high social status, maximum rental yield, or a quiet life surrounded by cultural heritage? Let's explore the best locations for buying property in Montenegro that are right for you.

6.1. Investing in Prestige: Tivat (Porto Montenegro, Luštica Bay)

Tivat is synonymous with elite and prestigious real estate in Montenegro. The city has become a magnet for wealthy Europeans and investors thanks to two large-scale projects:

• • Porto Montenegro: This complex has transformed Tivat into one of the most luxurious marinas in the Adriatic. Buying an apartment here is an investment in status and steadily growing capital.
• • Luštica Bay: A new, ambitious project offering not only residential properties but also a full-fledged resort infrastructure, golf courses, and private beaches.

By investing in apartments in Tivat (especially in these areas), you're benefiting from a high social standard, proximity to the international airport, and growth potential associated with the development of luxury tourism.

6.2. High Rental Yields: Budva Riviera

If your goal is the fastest possible return on investment and stable passive income, then the Budva Riviera is your choice. Budva remains the most popular tourist destination in the country.

• Beachfront and city center: Properties located near the sea enjoy occupancy rates reaching 90-100% during the season. This ensures the highest rental yields in the country.
• Liquidity: Thanks to constant demand from tourists and investors, real estate here remains extremely liquid. A purchased apartment can always be quickly sold or rented out.

6.3. Cultural Heritage and Tranquility: Bay of Kotor (Kotor, Perast)

For those seeking an old European atmosphere, tranquility, and stunning views, the Bay of Kotor is the ideal choice.

• Cultural Heritage: Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the diminutive town of Perast offer unique stone houses and palaces prized for their historic atmosphere.
• Quality of Life: Here you'll find a leisurely, peaceful pace of life, ideal for permanent residence, not just seasonal vacations. Despite lower rental yields, investments in properties with bay views retain high capital value due to their uniqueness.

Regardless of the chosen location, purchasing real estate in Montenegro is a direct and reliable path to obtaining a residence permit, making it attractive to any type of investor.

View premium apartments in Tivat, Porto Montenegro: gomonte.me/apartments

7. Why Choose the Best Overseas Real Estate Agency, GoMonte

In the world of foreign investment and migration strategies, choosing a reliable partner is 90% of the success. Independent attempts or working with inexperienced agents often lead to legal errors, financial losses, and residence permit denials. If you're looking for the best overseas real estate agency that can guarantee results, GoMonte is your choice.

7.1. Expert Support: A Full Service Cycle

GoMonte offers more than just property selection; it offers a comprehensive approach that eliminates all the risks and hassles associated with relocation and legalization:

• From selection to residence permit: We support you every step of the way, from a detailed search for a marketable property in Tivat or Budva to the final receipt of your residence permit in Montenegro.
• Specialization in Montenegro: Our team of lawyers and realtors lives and works in the country. We understand all the pitfalls of local legislation, current changes to the Cadastre, and pricing specifics in each region.
• Save time and hassle: You have a single point of contact for all matters: selection, verification, payment, property registration, residence permit application, and even assistance with opening a bank account.

7.2. Legal Guarantees and Payment Security

Financial security is our top priority, especially in the current climate, when how to pay for property abroad has become a pressing issue.

• Transaction Integrity: Our team conducts a multi-level legal due diligence of each property, ensuring that the property you purchase is free of encumbrances, debts, or illegal construction.
• Payment Assistance: We offer legal and proven payment methods that allow you to securely transfer funds from Russia. This includes assistance with SWIFT transfers through friendly banks, as well as structuring transactions using cryptocurrency or legal payment methods through third countries. We ensure that your purchase, including the option to purchase real estate abroad in rubles through special mechanisms (if available), is completely transparent and complies with international law.

By choosing GoMonte, you're investing in a 100% guarantee of a legally sound transaction and successful residence permit acquisition.

Book a property viewing, get a consultation on the property or residence permit from our manager: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

We've thoroughly examined why Montenegro is today's most attractive destination for Russian investors and migrants. All strategic factors converge here: financial security, a low tax threshold (9%), the use of the euro, and, most importantly, the simplest and most accessible route to residence in Europe through the purchase of real estate with no minimum purchase price.

Buying real estate abroad is a decision that determines your financial future and the freedom of your family. Don't risk your capital and status by attempting this complex process on your own or with unverified intermediaries. GoMonte is your best international real estate agency, guaranteeing legal clarity, financial security, and successful residence permit acquisition. We are your reliable partner, specializing in Montenegro.

Ready to start a new life by the Adriatic Sea?

Don't waste time studying the law and searching for reliable banking options. Contact us now for a detailed consultation, a plan for your move, and legal support for the transaction: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

This section answers the most frequently asked questions from potential Russian buyers of international real estate.

8.1. Is it possible to buy an apartment in another country without citizenship?

Yes, it is possible. In the vast majority of countries, including Montenegro, Russia, Turkey, Cyprus, and many others, legislation allows foreign citizens (non-residents) to purchase residential property without citizenship or a residence permit in that country. The only restrictions for foreigners are the purchase of agricultural land or property in border areas.

8.2. How long does it take to obtain a residence permit through the purchase of real estate in Montenegro?

The purchase and registration of ownership takes from a few days to 1-2 weeks. The processing of a residence permit application by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) after the purchase officially takes up to 20-40 days.

8.3. Can a non-resident buy property in Montenegro with installments?

Yes, you'll find installment plans at our agency. A substantial down payment (30-50%) is most often required.

8.4. Do I need to be present in person to complete the transaction?

Yes, it's preferable for you to be present in person to sign the purchase and sale agreement with a notary. However, you can use a power of attorney to view the property and collect the documents.

8.5. Can I rent out the purchased property?

Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign owners renting out property in Montenegro, making the purchase a profitable investment.

 

Read our other articles:

Buy a villa or apartment with a sea view in Montenegro: gomonte.me/blog/post/73

Premium apartments for sale in Montenegro: The best projects for 2025, prices, and profitability: gomonte.me/blog/post/71