Moving to Montenegro in 2026: Residence Permits, Prices, Healthcare, and Housing – A Complete Guide

Montenegro continues to hold its position as one of the most attractive destinations for European and international relocation in the new year, combining a unique Mediterranean climate with lenient legislation. In this article, we'll explain how to move to Montenegro in 2026 stress-free and what budget is needed to start living by the sea. You'll learn about the cost of residence permits, real estate rentals, utilities, taxes, and services. Today, the country is actively adapting its infrastructure to EU standards, making investments in local housing and businesses even more promising for long-term life planning in the Balkans.

The country's popularity among expats is explained by a significant list of advantages, among which ecology and safety are top of the list. Life in Montenegro offers access to the pristine Adriatic Sea, a mild climate, and the opportunity to enjoy year-round mountain recreation. For many, the decisive factors are the low entry threshold for obtaining a residence permit (through the purchase of any real estate or opening a company), as well as comparatively low tax rates (9-15%). Moreover, the relaxed pace of life and friendliness of the locals help foreigners quickly adapt and feel at home, without facing the harsh social pressures of large cities.

However, despite the development of the IT sector, the local employment market remains limited, making Montenegro ideal primarily for remote workers, business owners, and financially independent individuals.

You can view the list of documents required to obtain a Montenegrin residence permit in 2026 on our website in the section: gomonte.me/services/residence-permit

Get a consultation: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

Our company, GoMonte, provides assistance in obtaining a Montenegrin residence permit on the following grounds:

• based on the purchase of real estate
• based on employment
• opening a company
• a 2-year digital nomad visa

1. Legalization and Residence Permit (Boravak) in Montenegro in 2026: Current Rules

The process of obtaining a residence permit (VNZh or privremeni boravak) in Montenegro has become more digitalized in 2026, but retains its basic principles. As the country moves closer to the European Union, document control regulations have become more stringent, but Montenegro remains one of the easiest countries in Europe for legalizing foreigners. The primary document remains a plastic card (ID), which combines a residence permit and, in some cases, a work permit.

1.1. Residence Permit Based on Real Estate: New Value Thresholds

While previously, owning any share of a residential property was sufficient to obtain a residence permit, in 2026 the requirements became clearer. The government introduced minimum criteria for real estate to prevent fictitious transactions involving non-residential premises.

• Cost threshold: A cost threshold of €150,000 has been introduced for obtaining a residence permit.
• Restrictions: A residence permit is issued only based on ownership of residential properties (houses, apartments). Ownership of a land plot without a building or commercial real estate does not qualify for a card.
• Duration: Issued for 1 year with the right to annual renewal as long as the property is owned.

1.2. Business Immigration: Company Formation and Taxes

Company formation (D.O.O.) remains the most popular method of relocation for those not planning large real estate investments.

• Conditions: A foreigner can be appointed as an executive director of their company, which entitles them to a residence permit.
• Tax obligations: In 2026, the minimum wage in Montenegro was adjusted, which affects the director's social security contributions. Income tax is a progressive rate from 9% to 15%.

1.3. Residence Permit for Digital Nomads in Montenegro

The Digital Nomad Visa program for remote workers and freelancers reached its peak in 2026. It's an excellent option for those working for foreign companies and avoiding integration into the local tax system.

• Key requirements: Confirmed income from sources outside Montenegro (in 2026, the threshold is approximately €1,300–€1,500 per month) and a valid contract.
• Tax Benefits: Digital Nomad Visa holders are exempt from income tax in Montenegro, as they are considered tax residents of other countries or enjoy a special preferential regime.
• Duration: The visa is issued for two years, renewable for an additional two years. However, this type of residence permit does not directly lead to permanent residence.

Learn more about the Digital Nomad residence permit in Montenegro on our website: gomonte.me/services/residence-permit

Get a consultation: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

1.4. Other grounds: work, family, education

In addition to business and investment, there are standard legalization pathways, which underwent a number of bureaucratic simplifications in 2026:

• Employment (under a quota): Obtaining a residence permit based on an employment contract with a Montenegrin employer. The employer must prove that there are no Montenegrin applicants for the vacancy listed on the employment service.
• Family reunification: Spouses and minor children of individuals who already hold a residence permit receive documents on the same basis. This is the simplest legalization route for family members of the main applicant.
• Education: Residence permits are issued to students at state and accredited private universities, as well as to students at some language schools. Proof of enrollment and sufficient funds for living expenses are required.

2. Cost of Living in Montenegro: Realistic Monthly Budget in 2026

Planning a move requires a clear understanding of expenses. In 2026, Montenegro retains its status as a country with moderate prices compared to Western Europe, but inflation and integration into the European market have adjusted the cost of living.

Consumer basket, average prices in 2026:

• Milk (1 l) — €0.90–€1.20
• Bread — €0.60–€1.10
• Beef (1 kg) — €10–€13
• Chicken fillet (1 kg) — €7.50–€9
• Seasonal vegetables and fruits — from €1.50 to €3.50 per kg.
• The average monthly bill for a full meal plan for a family of two is approximately €500–€700, including home-cooked meals.

Utilities and Heating:

• Electricity (EPCG): The largest expense. In winter, when air conditioners and heaters are used, bills for a small apartment can be €100–€150; in summer, around €60–€80 (for air conditioning).
• Water and garbage disposal: Typically cost €15–€25 per month.

Communication and Unlimited Internet:

• Mobile Phone: Tourist and Residential packages with higher data volumes (500 GB–1 TB) cost €15–€25 per month.
• Home Internet: Optical Fiber combined with cable TV costs approximately €30–€40 per month. Connection speeds in major cities reach 500 Mbps.

Transportation:

• Car maintenance: Average fuel costs €1.60–€1.75 per liter. Annual registration and insurance for a compact car will cost €250–€350. Also consider paid parking in Budva or Kotor (€1–€2 per hour).
• Public transportation: A trip from Budva to Podgorica costs approximately €6–€8. A minimum taxi ride within the city costs from €3, €1/km.

Total budget: To live comfortably in Montenegro in 2026 (rent + food + bills + transportation), a family of two will need at least €1,800–€2,200 per month, excluding major purchases and travel.

3. Montenegro Real Estate Market 2026: Renting, Buying, and Choosing a Location

Montenegro's real estate market in 2026 is showing stability after a period of rapid growth. The country remains a magnet for digital nomads and investors awaiting EU accession, which directly impacts prices per square meter and rental rates.

3.1. Rental Prices in Montenegro in 2026

Average rates for a one-bedroom apartment with an annual contract:

• Tivat (Porto Montenegro and surrounding areas): The most expensive segment. High-end housing costs €1,000–€1,500 per month.
• Budva: A magnet for expats. Prices range from €800 to €1,200. It's important to note that many landlords are still trying to evict tenants during July and August or double the price during the peak season.
• Bar: An ideal choice for families with children. Spacious apartments cost €600–€900.
• Podgorica: The capital offers stable prices without the "resort" premium—€500–€800 for quality housing in the Preko Morače or City Kvart neighborhoods.

View rental properties in our catalog on the website: gomonte.me

3.2. Buying: New Buildings vs. Resale

New Buildings:

• The average price per square meter on the coast is €2,800–€4,500.
• In luxury complexes (Lustica Bay, Portonovi), prices start at €7,000/m².

Resale:

• Older buildings (Yugoslavian buildings) require investment in waterproofing and heating, but are less expensive—€1,800–€2,400/m².
• Resale properties in good condition in Podgorica are priced at €1,700–€2,100/m².

3.3. Where is it better to live in Montenegro: Coast vs. City Center

Coast (Budva, Kotor, Bar):

• Pros: Sea air, developed tourist infrastructure, high rental potential.
• Cons: High humidity in winter (mold is the main problem), traffic jams and noise in the summer months, inflated utility prices.

Podgorica (City Center):

• Pros: Business center, top schools and hospitals, a full life 12 months a year, no "low season."
• Cons: Sweltering heat in summer (up to 40°C), no access to the sea (45–60 minutes by car).

Nikšić:

• Pros: Significantly lower cost of living and rent, authentic atmosphere, proximity to the mountains.
• Cons: Fewer local employment opportunities, harsher winter climate.

Real estate rental and sales catalog in the section: gomonte.me

Large selection of apartments for rent starting from €350 on the coast, homes available for purchase with installments, and developer properties at competitive prices.

4. Healthcare in Montenegro 2026

Healthcare in Montenegro has undergone significant changes in recent years. For foreigners planning a move or long-term stay, understanding how the system works locally is crucial. Let's explore whether it's worth relying on public insurance or budgeting for private clinics. Most expats in Montenegro choose a hybrid approach: they have public insurance "just in case," but turn to private centers for urgent needs.

Estimated cost of medical services in 2026:

• Specialist consultation: €40–€70.
• Ultrasound (one area): €30–€50.
• Complete blood test (extended): €15–€25.
• MRI of one area: €150–€250.
• Dental visit (filling): €35–€60.

5. Education and Adaptation of Children in Montenegro

For many families, moving to Montenegro only becomes a reality after their children's education has been decided. In 2026, the country offers a wide range of options: from cozy rural schools to elite British colleges. Let's find out which education model is right for your family.

5.1. Russian-language and international schools

If you're planning a temporary stay or want your child to continue their education with a familiar curriculum (with the goal of entering universities in Europe or the Russian Federation), consider the private sector. Here, you'll find programs adapted to international standards, with a strong emphasis on foreign languages. There are also schools where instruction is conducted entirely in English (the IB program). The cost here is significantly higher, but a diploma opens the door to the world's best universities. The cost of such an education ranges from €6,000 to €18,000 per year.

5.2. Public Kindergartens and Schools. Admission Requirements for Foreigners in 2026:

• For schools: A translated birth certificate, a personal file from the previous school (notified by the Ministry of Education of Montenegro), and a health certificate are required. Applications are usually submitted in May-June, but if there are places available, a child may be accepted mid-year.
• For Kindergartens (Vrtići): Public kindergartens often have waiting lists, so priority is given to working parents. Foreigners must provide copies of the parents' birth certificates and the child's health record.
• Specific features: In public schools, instruction is conducted exclusively in Montenegrin. Teachers' attitudes toward foreign children are traditionally very warm and supportive.

6. Work and Business in Montenegro in 2026

In-demand professions for foreigners:

• IT and Digital Technologies: The demand for developers, systems analysts, and cybersecurity specialists remains consistently high. Montenegro is actively developing its "Digital Nomad Friendly" status.
• Luxury Tourism and Hospitality: With the opening of new five-star resorts in the Bay of Kotor and in the north of the country (Kolašin), managers, chefs, and service managers with multilingual skills are in high demand.
• Real Estate and Construction: The rapid pace of development requires architects, engineers, and licensed sales agents capable of working with international investors.
• Medicine and Wellness: Private clinics are actively attracting highly specialized specialists from abroad to serve the growing expat community.

Taxes for sole proprietors and legal entities in Montenegro:

• Income tax: A progressive rate of 9% to 15% is applied depending on income. This is significantly lower than the EU average.
• Sole proprietorship (Preduzetnik): For small businesses, a simplified taxation system (lump sum tax) remains available, which is especially convenient for freelancers.
• VAT (PDV): The standard rate is 21%, but preferential rates (7% and 0%) apply for many tourism and basic services.
• Double tax treaties: Montenegro has agreements with more than 40 countries, allowing for the efficient structuring of international assets.

7. Conclusion

Moving to Montenegro is not only a change of climate to a milder one but also a serious step requiring legal accuracy. Errors in paperwork can lead to residence permit denial or the freezing of bank accounts. Don't risk your status. Get a personal consultation with our immigration lawyer to ensure you receive your residence permit in 2026 without unnecessary bureaucratic red tape: +382 67 322 888 (Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram)

Successful adaptation starts at home. Browse our current rental property catalog – from cozy apartments in historic cities to modern villas overlooking the Adriatic: gomonte.me

We guarantee a stress-free move and 100% residence permit approval!