If you intend to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll be dealing with temporary residence—boravak. Beyond the government fee, most applicants should plan for proof of health insurance covering the entire permit period, translated and apostilled documents, and occasional certified copies or sworn-interpreter services at signing. Authorities also require bank statements and accommodation proof as part of a complete file.

What to budget for

• Health insurance for the permit period (private or state coverage depending on eligibility)

• Sworn interpreter and translation (roughly €20 per page written, about €50 per hour oral)

• Notary certification where required, priced on a regulated scale that increases with the value of the contract

Watch out: letting your permit lapse or missing pickup deadlines can force you to restart the entire process. Submissions and renewals are time-sensitive.

In coastal cities like Budva, Kotor, and Tivat, landlords often adjust pricing with the tourism cycle. Expect higher summer rates, multiple months’ rent in advance, and agency commissions that can fall on both tenant and landlord. Many long-term rentals come partially or completely unfurnished, so you may need to buy furniture and small appliances in your first year.

Tip: before signing, confirm who pays agency fees, whether the property is legally registered for long-term rental, and whether the price changes seasonally. Always inspect and document the property’s condition to avoid deposit disputes.

Buying later? Montenegro’s property costs differ from neighboring countries.

• Real estate transfer tax (resales): generally 3–6%, paid by the buyer.

• VAT on new builds: 21% applies instead of transfer tax when buying from a developer.

• Annual real estate tax: set by each municipality, commonly around 0.25–1% of assessed value.

• Notary, land registry, and translation fees: regulated and scale with property value; for example, around €350 plus VAT on a €100,000 sale, rising with value.

Even renters can face pass-through costs if a landlord asks the tenant to pay the annual property tax directly. Always confirm in writing who pays what.

Montenegro’s electricity system uses day and night tariffs, which means your bill depends on when you use power. Average household rates hover near €0.09–€0.10 per kilowatt hour.

Water, sewage, and waste fees are billed separately by local utilities. Garbage collection is usually a few euros per month for apartments and slightly more for houses, sometimes based on square meters.

Other considerations:

• Apartment buildings often charge maintenance fees per square meter.

• Paying bills in person through banks or post offices can include small commissions, so online payments are cheaper.

If you plan to drive, budget beyond fuel.

• Annual registration, technical inspection, and insurance are mandatory, and prices vary with vehicle type and age.
  
  

• Montenegro has no general highway vignette, but there are tolls on specific routes such as the A1 highway and the Sozina Tunnel.
  
  

• Importing a car involves customs duties, VAT, and inspection, though discounts may apply for vehicles with proper origin documentation.

Montenegro uses the euro, but transferring funds internationally still involves hidden costs. Bank account packages and maintenance fees vary, and non-residents can face higher charges. Cross-border transfers may include exchange-rate spreads and wire fees.

If your income is in another currency, look for multi-currency solutions to reduce conversion losses and check all incoming-transfer fees before choosing a bank.

The most common budget shock isn’t groceries or dining out—it’s the paperwork and policy layer around residence, housing, utilities, and vehicles. Understanding these hidden costs before you commit helps you keep your first year smooth and predictable.

Thinking about moving?
Relocation Montenegro can guide you through every step—from residency and company setup to real estate and taxation—so you can settle in confidently and focus on your new life.