For years Montenegro was summed up as “open a company, get residence”. Many people renewed permits through companies with no real business. Amendments to the Law on Foreigners that took effect in early 2026 largely closed that chapter. The route still exists, but the company is now expected to genuinely operate.
How does the company route work?
You set up a limited company, act as its director and apply for a temporary residence and work permit on that basis. The permit is usually issued for one year and renewed annually. Renewal is the critical point, and that is where the new rules bite.
What did the 2026 amendments bring?
Three themes: real activity (invoicing, revenue, actual business), employment conditions for the company, and regular payment of taxes and social contributions. Threshold figures are reported differently across sources, so rely on the current official text rather than numbers circulating online.
What is the “paper company” risk?
A company created only for residence, with no clients or income, is exactly what the law now targets. If renewal is refused, set-up, accounting, tax and contribution costs are lost, and a relocated life is left hanging. Anyone telling you the company can “stay on paper” is describing rules that no longer apply.
An honest risk analysis
The route still suits people who will really do business: tourism, hospitality, trade, agencies, and freelancers who can invoice regular income through the company. It no longer suits those who only want a residence card.
Montenegro is an EU candidate outside Schengen, so its permit gives no free movement or work rights in the EU. Permanent residence is based on five years of continuous residence. The visa regime for Turkish citizens has changed several times in the past year; check the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs before travelling.
Next step
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rely on the Law on Foreigners as published by Montenegro’s Ministry of Interior and announcements by the Montenegrin Tax Administration.
Tell us your business idea, budget and goal, and we will say plainly whether this route fits. Message our advisor on WhatsApp or start with “Montenegro” in the 30-second journey flow on our site.