Living in Montenegro - Our Expat Guide

20.06.2024

Living in Montenegro - Our Expat Guide. Relocation experts over at 'The Wealth Expat' have recently listed Montenegro as one of the top destinations to move to in 2024, and according to the travel experts at <a href="https://www.gbnews.com/travel/expat-destination-low-cost-living-south-europe">GB News Montenegro just happens to be perfect for everyone as it offers the right balance between luxury and affordability.<br>

If you are one of the many that are considering a move to Montenegro - here's our brief expat guide for you, covering all the important aspects about living in Montenegro.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of many countries, including the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and others, can enter Montenegro without a visa for up to 90 days. For longer stays, a temporary residence permit is required.

To obtain a temporary residence permit, you need: A valid passport, Proof of accommodation, Health insurance, Proof of sufficient funds and either an employment contract or proof of self-employment.

After five years of temporary residence, you can apply for permanent residency. This requires proof of continuous stay, a stable income, and integration into Montenegrin society.

Housing

Renting is straightforward and leases typically require a deposit equal to one month’s rent. There are many real estate agents (including CMM Montenegro) that can assist in finding suitable accommodation. If you'd prefer to buy a property, then foreigners can buy property in Montenegro, except for land designated as agricultural. The process involves legal checks and registration with the local cadastre.

Renting an apartment varies by location. In Podgorica, the capital, expect to pay around €250-€450 per month for a one-bedroom apartment or €500-€800 per month for a three-bedroom apartment. In coastal areas like Budva and Kotor, prices are higher, especially during the tourist season.

Buying a property also varies by location, with one bedroom apartments starting around €80,000 and villas/houses starting from €100,000. Prices are especially higher in new build resorts or popular coastal locations.

Utilities

Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a standard apartment range between €100-€150 with internet and mobile packages averaging between €20-€40 per month. Major providers are Telenor, M, and Telekom with both prepaid and postpaid plans available. Generally there is good coverage throughout the country.

Groceries and Dining

Groceries are relatively inexpensive and there are plenty of local markets offering fresh produce at good prices. These are the best places to shop for ingredients, especially during the agricultural seasons. Dining out is also highly affordable with an inexpensive restaurant costing between €5-€15 per person and a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing between €30-€50 per person.

Transportation

Public transportation is available, but many expats prefer owning a car as fuel prices are around €1.30 per liter and most of the public parking is free apart from high touristic areas. Public buses and taxis are affordable, with a monthly public transport pass costing around €30.

Healthcare

Montenegro has both public and private healthcare systems. Public healthcare is available to residents, but many expats opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times and higher quality services. Health insurance is mandatory and this will provide better coverage and faster access to specialists, of course the cost will vary but basic plans will start from €30 per month.

Education

Montenegro offers public, private, and international schools, with public schools teaching in Montenegrin and the International schools, such as QSI International School in Podgorica, offering their curriculum in English. The University of Montenegro and private institutions also offer higher education. again with many programs conducted in Montenegrin, with some universities offering courses in English.

Language

Montenegrin is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among the younger population. Learning basic Montenegrin phrases can enhance your experience and integration, plus it's relatively simple to do with many courses being offered around the country at decent hourly rates, whether that's alone or with a group.

Culture and Lifestyle

Montenegrins are well known for their hospitality, greeting with a handshake and maintaining eye contact is standard. They are more than happy to welcome tourists & have no issue with opening their homes and hearts to newcomers and expats. Please do dress modestly when visiting religious sites however, and make sure you get involved with as much as you can especially the many festivals and events that are held throughout the year including Kotor Festival, Sea Dance Festival, Jazz Festival and the Podgorica Film Festival.

Outdoor Activities

Montenegro is a paradise for nature lovers, with a wide range of activities including, Hiking in Durmitor National Park, Sailing along the Adriatic coast and Skiing in the winter resorts of Kolasin and Zabljak. They are also in the process of building their first Golf Course and there's plenty of community groups and expat groups that will organize regular meetups, social events and cultural exchanges.

Banking & Finance

Opening a bank account is straightforward with a residence permit. Major banks include NLB, CKB, and Erste Bank.

Safety

Montenegro is generally safe, with low crime rates. Basic precautions should be taken, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Ready to move to Montenegro, or have any further questions? Please contact CMM Montenegro directly and we'd be more than happy to help you!
All the best.