Can a foreigner buy real estate in Montenegro and obtain a residence permit?

Purchase of real estate in Montenegro by foreigners in 2026: rights, taxes, registration and obtaining a residence permit

Montenegro remains one of the most attractive real estate markets in Europe. Thousands of foreign buyers purchase apartments, houses, villas and land plots on the Adriatic coast every year. Buyers are attracted by the mild climate, affordable prices, safety, favorable ecology and prospects for the country's accession to the European Union.

If you are planning to buy real estate in Montenegro, it is important to understand in advance what rights foreigners have, how the transaction is processed, what taxes must be paid and whether the purchase of real estate can be the basis for obtaining a residence permit.

Can a foreigner buy a property in Montenegro

Yes. Montenegro's legislation allows foreign citizens to purchase most types of real estate on the same terms as citizens of the country.

Foreigners can buy:

apartments

apartments

at home

villas

commercial real estate

garages

land plots for real estate objects

Some categories of land, such as large-area agricultural land or special-purpose land, may have restrictions, but for most buyers they are irrelevant.

What documents are needed for the purchase

To make a deal, you usually need:

valid foreign passport

buyer's identification data

purchase and sale agreement

bank documents for non-cash payment

All documents are processed by a notary public, who certifies the legality of the transaction.

After signing the contract, ownership is registered in the state cadastre of real estate.

How much do taxes cost when buying a property

The amount of taxes depends on whether you are buying an apartment in a new building or on the secondary market.

When buying an apartment from a developer who pays VAT, the property turnover tax is usually not paid — it is already included in the price of the property.

When buying a secondary property, a transfer tax is usually paid.

Notarial services and registration costs are additionally paid.

Is it possible to get a residence permit when buying a property

Yes. Owning real estate in Montenegro allows a foreign citizen to apply for a temporary residence permit in compliance with legal requirements.

It is important to understand that the purchase of real estate itself does not automatically provide a residence permit. It is necessary to submit documents to the internal affairs bodies and fulfill the conditions established by law.

A residence permit opens up the possibility of:

long-term residence in the country

opening of bank accounts

car registration

gaining access to a range of government services

annual renewal of the status in compliance with the requirements of the law

Which cities are the most popular

The greatest interest of foreign buyers is caused by:

Budva

Bar

Tivat

Kotor

Becici

Petrovac

Good Water

Sutomore

Each of these cities has its advantages, from well—developed urban infrastructure to high tourist demand.

Is it possible to earn income from rent

Yes. Many owners purchase real estate specifically to generate passive income.

Most in demand:

apartments by the sea

apartments in residential complexes

houses with several separate apartments

villas with pools

With proper management, real estate can bring stable income both during the tourist season and during long-term rentals.

Why is it profitable to invest in Montenegro now

Montenegro's real estate market continues to develop due to several factors:

the growth of the tourist flow

construction of modern residential complexes

infrastructure development

the interest of foreign investors

prospects for the country's accession to the European Union

limited supply of quality real estate by the sea

All this contributes to a gradual increase in the cost of properties and makes the purchase of real estate a long-term investment.

Why do customers choose our company

Buying property abroad requires professional support. We provide a full range of services to ensure that the transaction is safe, transparent and comfortable.

Our experts will help:

choose an apartment, house or villa

check the legal purity of the object

organize viewings

negotiate with the seller

prepare the documents

to accompany the transaction with a notary

register ownership rights

provide assistance in obtaining a residence permit

organize property management and rental

We accompany clients at all stages — from the first request to receiving keys and subsequent maintenance of the facility.

Conclusion

Buying a property in Montenegro is an opportunity to live near the Adriatic Sea, save capital and earn rental income. Due to the clear registration procedure, affordable prices and prospects for further development of the country, interest in the real estate market continues to grow.

If you want to buy an apartment, a house, a villa or a plot of land in Montenegro, contact our specialists. We will select the best offers, fully inspect the facility and ensure that the transaction is processed safely, taking into account your goals and budget.