For many families with roots in Montenegro, citizenship by descent—also called citizenship by origin—offers a direct and legally recognized path to becoming a Montenegrin citizen. Unlike naturalization, this process does not require long-term residency, language exams, or renunciation of existing citizenships. Instead, it focuses on proving family lineage and completing the registration process correctly.

As Montenegro continues to attract global interest for its natural beauty, strategic location, and favorable lifestyle, more individuals are exploring how to reconnect with their heritage through citizenship by descent. This guide explains the rules, requirements, and procedures you need to know.

The framework for acquiring Montenegrin citizenship is set out in the Law on Montenegrin Nationality (Official Gazette No. 13/2008, with amendments). Citizenship may be obtained by:

• Origin (descent)

• Birth on the territory of Montenegro under specific conditions

• Admittance (naturalization)

• International treaties and agreements

This article focuses on acquisition by origin, the most common pathway for individuals with Montenegrin parents or ancestry.

Citizenship by descent is based primarily on parentage. You may qualify if:

1. Born to Two Montenegrin Citizens

   • A child automatically acquires Montenegrin citizenship by origin, regardless of place of birth.

2. Born in Montenegro with One Montenegrin Parent

   • If one parent is Montenegrin and the other is a foreign citizen, the child is granted citizenship at birth.

3. Born Abroad with One Montenegrin Parent

   • If the other parent is stateless, unknown, or of undetermined nationality, the child can acquire citizenship by origin.

   • Citizenship is also granted if failure to recognize it would result in statelessness.

4. Children Born Abroad to Montenegrin Parents

   • Parents must register the child in Montenegro’s birth and citizenship registers.

   • Registration generally must occur before the child turns 18.

   • Individuals between 18 and 23 years old may also apply under certain conditions.

5. Adopted Children

   • A child fully adopted by a Montenegrin citizen acquires citizenship by origin.

To obtain Montenegrin citizenship by descent, applicants must follow specific steps:

• Documentation:

  • Birth certificate of the applicant

  • Proof of Montenegrin citizenship of parent(s)

  • Marriage or adoption documents where applicable

  • Official identification documents

• Registration:

  • Submit the application to the local municipality in Montenegro or at a Montenegrin consulate abroad.

  • The child must be entered into the Register of Montenegrin Citizens and the birth registry.

• Deadlines:

  • Applications for children born abroad must typically be filed before age 18.

  • In certain cases, individuals may apply until age 23.

• Consent:

  • For minors, parental or guardian consent is required.

  • Children over age 14 may also need to provide personal consent.

Unlike naturalization, citizenship by descent does not demand:

• Long-term residence in Montenegro

• Proficiency in the Montenegrin language

• Proof of income or accommodation

• Renunciation of other citizenships (for descent cases)

This makes the process significantly more straightforward for eligible applicants.

Montenegro’s stance on dual citizenship is nuanced:

• By origin (descent): Dual citizenship is generally permitted. If you acquire Montenegrin citizenship at birth through descent, you may retain your other nationality.

• By naturalization (admittance): Renunciation of prior citizenship is typically required unless a bilateral treaty allows dual nationality.

For families claiming citizenship by descent, the law is favorable.

While descent is the focus, it is helpful to understand other options:

• Naturalization (admittance): Requires 10 years of legal residence, language knowledge, financial means, and a clean record.

• Birth on territory: Applies when children are born in Montenegro to parents who are stateless or unknown.

• International treaties: Some nationality rights arise from agreements between Montenegro and other states.

Citizenship by descent is one of the most direct and advantageous ways to obtain Montenegrin nationality. For those with Montenegrin parents or ancestry, the process focuses on proper documentation and timely registration, rather than long residency or language requirements.

At Relocation Montenegro, we specialize in guiding families, investors, and individuals through this process—ensuring compliance with every legal requirement and eliminating unnecessary delays.

Your move, our mission. Contact us today to book a paid consultation and begin your journey toward Montenegrin citizenship.