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Montenegro for expats
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Lifestyle Guide

Montenegro for expats

A welcoming country with low taxes, beautiful scenery, and easy residency.

Why Montenegro for expats?

Montenegro welcomes expats from around the world with straightforward residency processes, low taxes, and an excellent quality of life. The country has a growing international community, particularly from the UK, Germany, Russia, and Scandinavia.

Residency is achievable through property ownership, employment, or business establishment. The process is bureaucratic but manageable, typically taking 2-3 months. After 5 years of temporary residency, permanent residency is available, and citizenship after 10 years.

The tax regime is attractive: a flat 9% income tax, no worldwide taxation for residents, and no capital gains on property held over 3 years. Combined with low living costs, many expats find their money goes significantly further than in their home countries.

Key benefits

  • Straightforward residency through property/work/business
  • Flat 9% income tax rate
  • No worldwide taxation for residents
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  • Growing English-speaking expat community
  • Low cost of living vs Western Europe
  • Safe country with good infrastructure
  • Mediterranean climate and lifestyle
  • Easy travel to rest of Europe
  • Search properties for expats

    Best locations for expats

    Budva

    Largest expat community, English widely spoken

    Tivat

    Modern, international feel, Porto Montenegro

    Kotor

    Cultural expats, historic charm, tight community

    Podgorica

    Capital amenities, business opportunities, year-round life

    Herceg Novi

    Quieter pace, established foreign community

    Browse properties in Budva

    Budget guidance

    Apartments €60,000-200,000 depending on size and location. Houses €150,000-400,000. Villas €250,000+. Rentals from €400/month for basic to €1,500+ for premium.

    Recommended property types

    Apartment1-bedroom2-bedroom3-bedroomHouseVilla

    Things to consider

    • Legal representation for purchase and residency
    • Health insurance requirement for residency
    • Banking - international accounts useful initially
    • Tax planning before becoming resident
    • Learning basic Montenegrin helpful but not essential
    • Car useful outside Podgorica

    Frequently asked questions

    How do I get residency in Montenegro?

    Temporary residency through property ownership, employment, or company formation. Requirements include health insurance, proof of funds, and clean criminal record. Process takes 2-3 months. Permanent residency after 5 years.

    Do I need to speak Montenegrin?

    Not essential in tourist areas where English is common. However, basic Montenegrin helps with bureaucracy and integration. Apps and language schools are available. Many expats manage with English only.

    How are expats taxed in Montenegro?

    Residents pay 9% flat tax on Montenegrin income. Foreign income may be taxed depending on source and tax treaties. No capital gains on property held 3+ years. Consult a tax advisor before becoming resident.

    Is there an expat community?

    Yes, growing communities in Budva, Tivat, Kotor, and Podgorica. Facebook groups, regular meetups, and expat-focused services exist. British, German, Russian, and Scandinavian expats are most common.

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    Ready to relocate to Montenegro?

    Browse verified properties or contact our team for personalised assistance

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