How to open a bank account in Montenegro for an individual

11.02.2026

Despite tightening requirements for foreigners in Montenegro, the country's banking system remains accessible to Russians and citizens of other countries, offering convenient tools for saving and making international payments. In this guide, we'll cover in detail how to open a bank account in Montenegro as an individual: what documents a non-resident will need, which financial institutions are best to contact, and what to consider to ensure the process is quick and straightforward.

The GoMonte team provides assistance with opening a bank account in Montenegro for residents. Get a consultation: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WhatsApp/Telegram

Popular banks for individuals

Lovcen
CKB (Crnogorska Komercijalna Banka)
Hipotekarna Banka
Prva Banka CG

Required documents for opening an account in Montenegro

For an individual, the standard package of documents includes:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Residence permit in Montenegro
Proof of origin of funds (an income statement, a statement from another bank account, or an employment contract may be required).
Local phone number (for receiving SMS codes and using the mobile app).

Step-by-step instructions for opening a bank account:

1. Branch Selection

It is recommended to choose large branches in tourist centers (Budva, Tivat, Kotor) or in the capital (Podgorica). Staff there are more likely to speak English or Russian.

2. Application and KYC

You complete forms indicating your source of income and expected account turnover. In 2026, Montenegrin banks began closely monitoring Know Your Customer (KYC) checks. Application processing can take from 2 to 10 business days.

3. Receiving Cards

After approval, a current account will be opened for you and a plastic card (usually Visa or Mastercard) will be ordered. Card production takes about a week.

Bank Maintenance Fees

Account maintenance costs range from 1 to 5 euros per month. SWIFT transfers are subject to a fee, which varies depending on the correspondent bank.

Does Montenegro support Apple Pay and Google Pay?

Yes, most leading banks in Montenegro support contactless payments via smartphones.

What to look for to ensure a quick process

Opening an account in Montenegro as an individual is possible, but it requires personal presence and patience during verification. Having a long-term rental agreement or verified remote income significantly increases the chances of quick approval.

If you've moved to Montenegro, received a residence permit, and want to open a bank account, but are intimidated by the local language or bureaucratic red tape, the GoMonte team will help you submit your documents and advise you on the most favorable terms for individuals.

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

Also read our other articles:

Real Estate in Budva: New Buildings Catalog 2026 – Prices, Best Residential Complexes, and Purchase Terms: gomonte.me/blog/post/88

Frequently Asked Questions about Residence Permits and Real Estate in Montenegro 2026: gomonte.me/blog/post/97

Blog about life in Montenegro

Do you dream of a carefree life on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, where the sun shines 300 days a year, and mountains coexist with azure beaches? Then welcome to Montenegro! In this blog, we share the experience of living in this amazing country of people who have already moved to Montenegro, talk about adaptation to a new country, the intricacies of buying real estate in Montenegro, obtaining a residence permit, and also introduce you to Montenegrin culture and traditions.

Moving to a new country is not just a change of place of residence, it is a step towards a new life filled with bright colors and unforgettable impressions. The paperwork process is not complicated, but requires careful preparation. In our blog you will find detailed information about:

Necessary documents: what certificates and statements you will need, where to get them.
How to get a residence permit in Montenegro in 2026: which residence permit is right for you, how to get it.
Looking for housing: how to find the house or apartment of your dreams.
Montenegro News.

In our catalog you can find accommodation for every taste and budget: from cozy apartments to luxury villas, and in the articles we will tell you about:

Stages of buying real estate in Montenegro: how to avoid becoming a victim of scammers and make a profitable deal.
Real estate prices: what determines the cost of housing in different regions.
Taxes: what taxes you need to pay when buying and owning real estate.

Each country has its own characteristics that you should know about before moving. Explore our blog about life in Montenegro:

Where to find inexpensive housing in Montenegro.
Cost of living: how much food, transportation, clothing and other goods cost.
Medicine: how the healthcare system works in Montenegro.
Education: what schools and universities are there in the country.
Work: where and how to find work in Montenegro.

Also in the blog you will find detailed information about residence permits in Montenegro:

What documents will you need?
How much does it cost to obtain a residence permit?
What are the benefits of Borawak in Montenegro?

We hope that our blog about life in Montenegro will be a useful and informative resource for you. If you want to share your experience or advertise on our website, contact us: +382 67 322 888 Viber/WatsAap/Telegram