Montenegro Citizenship by Descent: A Complete Guide for Expats and Families

TL;DR: In Montenegro, permanent residency already covers most rights foreigners need to live comfortably, while citizenship adds political rights and an EU-candidate passport. For many expats, residency is enough; citizenship matters mainly for long-term security, property investment, and family planning.
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Introduction

When considering a move to Montenegro, one of the first questions many expats ask is: Do I really need Montenegrin citizenship, or is permanent residency enough?

Both statuses grant the right to live in Montenegro, but they differ significantly in terms of rights, obligations, and long-term opportunities. Understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for yourself and your family.

Residency in Montenegro

Most foreigners begin their journey in Montenegro with temporary residence (privremeni boravak). This can be obtained for various reasons:

  • Employment or business activity

  • Family reunification

  • Real estate ownership

  • Study

  • Medical treatment or humanitarian grounds

Temporary residence is typically granted for one year and can be renewed annually. After five continuous years, you become eligible to apply for permanent residence (stalni boravak).

Rights of Permanent Residents

With permanent residency in Montenegro, you gain:

  • The right to live and work in Montenegro without additional permits

  • Access to the Montenegrin healthcare and education systems

  • The ability to buy property without restrictions

  • A local identification card and integration into the national system

However, permanent residency does not grant you Montenegrin voting rights, a passport, or the ability to easily move across Europe with the privileges that citizenship brings.

Citizenship in Montenegro

Montenegrin citizenship is more difficult to obtain, and the process depends on your situation.

By Naturalization

You may apply for citizenship if you have:

  • Lived in Montenegro legally for at least 10 years (with five of those years as a permanent resident)

  • Demonstrated integration into society (language knowledge, clean record, etc.)

  • Renounced previous citizenship (since Montenegro generally does not allow dual citizenship, except by international treaties or special exceptions)

By Descent (Jus Sanguinis)

Children born to Montenegrin parents can claim citizenship, regardless of place of birth.

By Investment (Program Now Closed)

Montenegro previously ran a Citizenship by Investment Program (CBI), allowing foreigners to invest in development projects for citizenship. However, this program officially closed in 2022, and there is currently no replacement.

Rights of Citizens

As a Montenegrin citizen, you gain:

  • Full political rights, including voting and running for office

  • A Montenegrin passport, ranked among the stronger Balkan passports, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries

  • Long-term security, without risk of losing status due to absence or policy changes

  • The ability to transmit citizenship to your children

Comparing Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Feature Permanent Residency Citizenship
Right to live in Montenegro ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Right to work freely ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Healthcare & education access ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Property ownership ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Voting rights ❌ No ✅ Yes
Passport ❌ No ✅ Yes
Transmission to children ❌ No ✅ Yes
Risk of losing status if absent long-term ✅ Possible ❌ No
Which Path Is Right for You?

  • If your goal is lifestyle relocation — enjoying the coastline, investing in property, working remotely, or retiring — permanent residency is usually sufficient.

  • If your goal is generational planning — securing rights for children, voting, or ensuring a Montenegrin passport — citizenship is worth pursuing, despite the longer path.

    • Conclusion

    Montenegro offers a clear structure for foreigners: start with temporary residence, transition to permanent residency after five years, and pursue citizenship after a decade if you wish to cement your place in the country.

    For many expats, permanent residency already unlocks the doors to a full and stable life in Montenegro. Citizenship is the natural next step only if you need the political rights or the passport.

    👉 If you’re serious about making Montenegro your new home, the smartest move is to get expert guidance. Book a paid consultation with Relocation Montenegro today, and we’ll walk you step by step through your residency or citizenship journey.

    FAQ
    Frequently asked questions
    Montenegrin Residency vs Citizenship
    How long does it take to get Montenegrin permanent residency?
    Five continuous years of temporary residence are required before applying for permanent residency.
    Can I work in Montenegro with just permanent residency?
    Yes. Permanent residents can work without needing additional permits.
    Does Montenegro allow dual citizenship?

    Generally, no. Exceptions exist only through bilateral treaties or special government approval.
    Is property ownership possible with only permanent residency?
    Yes. Permanent residents can buy and own property without restrictions.
    What happened to the Montenegro Citizenship by Investment Program?
    It was officially closed in 2022, and no new program is currently active.
    Which is better for expats — residency or citizenship?

    For most expats, permanent residency covers everything needed for a secure, comfortable life. Citizenship is mainly valuable for political rights and the passport.