Montenegro is introducing stricter rules for regulating the stay of foreign citizens, shortening the period of visa-free entry, and strengthening controls over inactive foreign-owned companies.
Montenegro's National Security Council, which met on November 4 at the initiative of Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, approved a package of changes to the country's visa and immigration policies. These measures are aimed at strengthening security, combating shell companies, and harmonizing legislation with European Union standards.
The visa-free stay period is reduced to 30 days
The main change will affect citizens of countries that enjoy visa-free travel with Montenegro but have not coordinated their visa policies with the EU. For them, the length of stay in the country will be reduced from 90 to 30 days.
This is a solution as note in the government, will strengthen control over migration flows and bring visa regulations into line with European standards.
New requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Montenegro
The Council instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs to amend the Law on Foreigners. The basis for a temporary residence permit will now be investment in real estate worth at least €200,000.
The ability to obtain a residence permit by opening a company will be replaced by the requirement of official full-time employment—either with a registered employer or in one's own business that actually operates.
Monitoring inactive companies and tax violators
The government also noted the growing number of foreign companies that are inactive and violating tax laws. The tax service will now regularly report information about such companies to the police so that, if warranted, their owners' temporary residence permits can be revoked.
This measure is aimed at increasing fiscal discipline and combating fictitious businesses used to legalize residence in the country.
Cooperation with Turkey and data exchange
Following a series of talks between representatives of Montenegro and Turkey, the parties agreed to closer information exchange between the migration and law enforcement agencies of the two countries. This cooperation will allow for a more rapid response to threats related to illegal migration and financial abuse.
European standards and the course towards integration
The National Security Council emphasized that Montenegro remains committed to the European course and the protection of the rights of all legally residing foreigners.
The measures taken are part of the process of European integration and the fulfillment of obligations under Chapters negotiations with the EUThe authorities claim that the changes will help improve security, transparency, and control over migration processes, and will make the country more resilient to economic and tax abuses.
Who participated in the meeting?
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the National Security Agency, the Police Directorate, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prosecutor General's Office, and the leadership of the Tax Administration of Montenegro.
Bottom line: what does this mean for foreigners?
- Visa-free stay for a number of countries is the maximum 30 days.
- A residence permit can only be obtained if Real estate investments from 200,000 euros or official employment.
- Owners inactive firms risk losing their residence permit.
