Why should you live and work in Montenegro?

A few facts about Montenegro

1. Official Language: Montenegrin
2. Location: Southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. Montenegro borders Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania. It also has a coastline along the Adriatic Sea.
3. Capital city: Podgorica
4. Government type: Republic
5. Population: Approximately 620,000 people.
6. Climate: Montenegro's climate is diverse due to its varied geography. It has a Mediterranean climate along the coast, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Inland areas experience more continental climates, with colder winters and hotter summers.
7. Currency: Euro (EUR)
8. Montenegro is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including rugged mountains, beautiful coastlines, and picturesque lakes. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports.

Ten reasons why you should relocate to Montenegro

1. Stunning Natural Beauty: Montenegro is home to some of the world's most beautiful landscapes, from its immaculate Adriatic coastline to its towering mountains and lovely lakes. It's a nature lover's paradise.

2. Mediterranean Climate: Montenegro's Mediterranean climate allows for pleasant summers and moderate winters. The weather is usually lovely and ideal for outdoor activities all year round.

3. Reasonably inexpensive Cost of Living: Montenegro's cost of living is comparatively cheap compared to many other European nations, which attracts foreigners looking for a good standard of living without going over budget.

4. Rich Cultural Heritage: The history of Montenegro is rich and varied, influenced by the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras, among other cultures. Discover historic villages, medieval towns, and historical ruins.

5. Investment Opportunities: Montenegro is expanding in several industries, such as tourism, real estate, and renewable energy. It offers profitable investment opportunities for both individuals and companies.

6. Safety and Stability: Montenegro's political stability and safety are well-known. There is a minor crime, and the nation is regarded as friendly and tranquil for visitors.

7. Diverse and Vibrant Expat Community: Montenegro has attracted expatriates worldwide due to its popularity. You'll get the chance to interact with folks from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

8. Delectable food: Savor the vibrant food of Montenegro, which is influenced by Italian, Mediterranean, and Balkan culinary traditions: Savour regional wines, grilled meats, cheeses, and fresh seafood.

9. Outdoor Activities: Montenegro has a variety of outdoor activities for all interests and experience levels, whether you prefer hiking, sailing, skiing, or just lounging on the beach.

10. Simple Residency and Citizenship: Thanks to Montenegro's various residency and citizenship initiatives, especially its investment migration schemes, it is comparatively easy for foreigners to gain permanent residency or even become citizens.

Where are the available jobs?

1. Tourism and Hospitality: With its stunning coastline and natural features, tourism is a significant industry in Montenegro, providing jobs in restaurants, hotels, resorts, tour companies, and other associated services.

2. Information Technology (IT): Expanding technology and digital services may create opportunities in software development, IT consulting, web design, and other IT-related sectors.

3. Real estate and construction: Montenegro has experienced real estate and infrastructural growth, which has created opportunities in architecture, construction, project management, and property management.

4. Agriculture: Agriculture plays a part in Montenegro's economy, with opportunities in farming, agriculture-related enterprises, and agribusiness management.

5. Renewable Energy: Montenegro is investigating hydroelectric and solar power as two examples of renewable energy sources. These sources could lead to job possibilities in developing, implementing, and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure.

6. Education and Language Services: Particularly in language schools and foreign education programs, there can be chances for educators and teachers.

7. Healthcare: Medical professionals, nurses, support personnel, and other healthcare workers may find possibilities in healthcare services.

8. Financial Services: Professionals with the necessary training and credentials may find employment prospects in the banking, finance, accounting, and insurance industries.

Where are the available workers?

1. Urban Centers: Because of increased economic activity and infrastructural development, cities like Podgorica and coastal towns like Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi often have more skilled and unskilled workers.
2. Universities and Educational Institutions: These establishments are home to skilled professionals and graduates who provide a talent pool for various businesses.
3. Rural Areas: A workforce with skills appropriate for farming, agriculture-related sectors, and small companies may be found in agricultural regions and smaller cities.
4. Online platforms: Many Montenegrin employees, particularly those in the digital and IT industries, may be active on these platforms, where they provide their remote abilities to clients across the globe.
5. Industry-specific Hubs: There will be concentrations of personnel with suitable skills and expertise in certain businesses, such as tourism and hospitality near the coast, IT in urban areas, and agriculture in rural areas.
6. Professional Networks: You can meet available personnel in particular professions by attending networking events, joining professional groups, and joining industry associations.
7. Government Employment Agencies: The government of Montenegro runs employment agencies that serve as a resource for both companies and job seekers by helping to connect available people with available positions.
8. Communities of Refugees and Migrants: There are refugee and migrant populations in Montenegro, and they can be looking for work, especially in industries like services, agriculture, and construction.

Short overview of the labour market

1. Economic Structure: Tourism, services, construction, agriculture, and industry are just a few of Montenegro's economic sectors. Because of the nation's beautiful beaches and cultural landmarks, tourism, in particular, contributes significantly to employment.
2. Unemployment: Economic conditions, seasonal fluctuations in tourism, and structural issues have all impacted Montenegro's fluctuating unemployment rates in recent years. With an emphasis on skill development and job creation, efforts to lower unemployment and boost labour market participation are ongoing.
3. Skills Mismatch: There can be a discrepancy between job seekers' skills and what companies seek. Education and training programs must close this gap to improve labour productivity and competitiveness.
4. Informal Economy: Like many other nations, Montenegro has an informal economy where certain workers can be employed informally or without proper documentation. This presents problems for social security coverage, taxes, and labour market regulation.
5. Youth Employment: The difficulty of switching from education to work is reflected in Montenegro's youth unemployment statistics, which are often higher than in the country. To address this issue, it is critical to implement programs that encourage youth entrepreneurship, provide vocational training, and assist with job placement.
6. Migration: Emigration and immigration movements may impact Montenegro's labour market dynamics. Immigration can boost competence and diversity in the workforce, whereas emigration—especially of qualified workers seeking opportunities abroad—may lead to shortages in some industries.
7. Labor Market Regulations: The labour laws of Montenegro control pay, working hours, job conditions, and workplace safety. Adherence to these standards is vital in guaranteeing just and impartial treatment of labourers and upholding a favourable commercial atmosphere.
8. Government Initiatives: The Montenegrin government runs several policies and initiatives, including labour market information systems, vocational training programs, and investment incentives, to promote job creation, attract investment, and improve labour market efficiency.
 

Hot jobs

1. Tourism and Hospitality Management: Skilled workers in hotel management, tourism services, event planning, and hospitality are in constant demand due to Montenegro's breathtaking coastline and cultural attractions, which attract tourists from all over the world.

2. IT and Technology: As technology develops, there's an increasing demand for IT specialists in data analysis, web design, cybersecurity, and software development. Specialised knowledge in fields like cloud computing, blockchain, and artificial intelligence may be particularly in demand.

3. Construction and Engineering: Engineers, architects, project managers, and skilled labourers are in high demand due to Montenegro's continuous infrastructure development projects, which include building projects, road construction, and energy infrastructure.

4. Renewable Energy: Due to Montenegro's dedication to using renewable energy sources like solar and hydroelectric electricity, there may be many opportunities for experts in project creation, engineering, and maintenance.

5. Healthcare Services: To address the healthcare demands of Montenegro's population and its expanding tourism economy, there is a continuing need for healthcare experts, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals.

6. Language and Education: Montenegro's multicultural environment and expanding tourism sector fuel the demand for language instructors, interpreters, translators, and specialists in foreign education programs.

7. Financial Services: Professionals in banking, finance, accounting, investment management, and insurance may find possibilities in Montenegro's developing financial sector.

8. Environmental Management: Experts in environmental management, conservation, ecotourism, and sustainable development may find opportunities in Montenegro due to its natural beauty and dedication to sustainability.

Benefits of Living in Montenegro

1. Magnificent Natural Beauty: Montenegro is home to some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet, including rocky mountains, lush forests, stunning Adriatic Sea coasts, and crystal-clear lakes. Locals can engage in outdoor pursuits like hiking, swimming, sailing, skiing, and park exploration.

2. Mediterranean Climate: Montenegro has year-round good weather due to its Mediterranean climate, which features hot, dry summers and moderate winters. While inland regions offer colder temperatures, coastal areas benefit from cool sea breezes.

3. Low Cost of Living: Montenegro has a comparatively low cost of living compared to several Western European nations. This includes reasonably priced housing, groceries, eating out, transportation, and entertainment. Because of this, it's a desirable location for seniors, foreigners living abroad, and digital nomads looking to cut costs.

4. Options for residence: The Residence Permit for Investment (RPI) program is one of Montenegro's several residence programs for foreign nationals. By investing in approved real estate developments, investors and property purchasers can acquire residency and access advantages like visa-free travel inside the Schengen Zone.

5. Tax Benefits: With low personal income tax rates, no inheritance or wealth taxes, and specific company investment incentives, Montenegro boasts an advantageous tax system. Because of this, it appeals to people and businesses looking for tax-efficient ways to live and invest.

6. High-quality Healthcare: Montenegro's public and private healthcare systems are available. Private healthcare institutions provide high-quality medical care, frequently at reasonable costs, while the public healthcare system may encounter resource and infrastructure constraints.

7. Diverse Culture and Heritage: The Illyrians, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans are just a few civilisations that have left their mark on Montenegro. Residents' access to historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, festivals, and traditional cuisine enhances the dynamic cultural experience.

8. Safety and Stability: With low crime rates and a tranquil political climate, Montenegro is renowned for its safety and stability. Its hospitality, tolerance, and multiculturalism ideals make the nation hospitable to people from all backgrounds.

What are the benefits of working in Montenegro?

• Diverse Job Opportunities: Montenegro offers various employment options across multiple sectors, providing opportunities for individuals with different skills and backgrounds.
• Competitive Wages: While the cost of living is relatively low, wages can be competitive, especially in growing industries such as tourism, technology, and finance.
• Career Development: Working in Montenegro can offer career advancement and skill development opportunities, with access to training programs and professional growth initiatives.
• Work-life balance: Montenegro's Mediterranean lifestyle emphasises a healthy balance between work and leisure, with shorter workweeks and flexible schedules.
• Cultural Experience: Employees can immerse themselves in Montenegro's rich cultural heritage, with opportunities to interact with locals, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in cultural events.
• Scenic Environment: Many workplaces in Montenegro are in picturesque settings, providing a pleasant and inspiring work environment surrounded by natural beauty.
• Community Atmosphere: Montenegro is known for its close-knit communities and friendly atmosphere, fostering solid social connections among colleagues and neighbours.
• Safe and Stable Environment: Montenegro is considered safe and politically stable, creating a secure environment for workers and their families to thrive.

Why is Montenegro the best place to live?

1. Stunning Natural Beauty: Montenegro is home to some of the world's most beautiful landscapes, such as lush woods, craggy mountains, stunning Adriatic Sea coasts, and clear lakes. Residents can engage in other outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, sailing, skiing, and exploring national parks.

2. Mediterranean Climate: With hot, dry summers and moderate winters, Montenegro's Mediterranean climate offers year-round comfort to its citizens. Inland locations have milder temperatures, but coastal areas have cold sea breezes.

3. Low Cost of Living: Unlike several Western European nations, Montenegro offers reasonably priced housing, groceries, dining out, transportation, and entertainment. Because of this, pensioners, foreigners living abroad, and digital nomads looking to cut costs find it a desirable location.

Montenegro has a range of residency options for foreign nationals, including the Residence Permit for Investment (RPI) scheme. Property purchasers and investors who engage in approved real estate developments are eligible for residency, which grants them access to advantages, including Schengen Zone travel without a visa.

5. Tax Benefits: Montenegro has an advantageous tax system, with low personal income tax rates, no wealth or inheritance taxes, and specific company investment incentives. This is what attracts people and businesses looking for chances to live and invest in a tax-efficient manner.

6. Access to High-Quality Healthcare: Montenegro offers public and private healthcare options. While the public healthcare system may have infrastructural and resource constraints, private healthcare facilities frequently provide high-quality medical care at reasonable costs.

Montenegro boasts a diverse cultural heritage influenced by many civilisations, such as the Illyrians, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans. Locals can enjoy a lively cultural experience by visiting historical sites, museums, art galleries, festivals, and traditional restaurants.

Montenegro is renowned for its safety and stability, owing to its low crime rate and tranquil political atmosphere. The nation welcomes citizens from various origins because it cherishes tolerance, multiculturalism, and hospitality.

Relocating to Montenegro for work - everything you need to know

Suppose you still need a residence permit, and your passport allows you visa-free entry to Montenegro. In that case, you can come to Montenegro first and then search for a job and apply for a residence permit based on your employment under the 90 days you have the right to stay in Montenegro.

When you find a job or open your company in Montenegro, you can get a permanent or temporary work residence permit.

To apply for a work residence permit, one has to provide 

• a valid passport 
• diploma
• certificate of no criminal record from the country of origin (not older than six months and officially translated) 
• birth certificate 
• property possession certificate
• proof of a 3.650 EUR deposit into a bank 
• valid medical insurance for not less than 30 days

A temporary work residence permit is issued for 12 months, after which it can be renewed. To obtain a permanent residence permit, one must have spent five years in Montenegro with a temporary residence permit. Also, the one who applies will have to prove the basic knowledge of Montenegrin by taking an exam.

Moving to Montenegro for study, marriage, or retirement would be great if you could get through the process quickly.

Aside from work, you can move to Montenegro on the grounds of marriage or studying. Furthermore, students who come to Montenegro to complete their studies are issued a temporary residence permit during their studies.

You can apply for a permanent residence permit if you've been married to a Montenegrin citizen for over three years. The same goes for marriage with a foreigner with a permanent residence permit in Montenegro.

Why is Montenegro the best place to live?

1. Stunning Natural Beauty: Montenegro is home to some of the world's most beautiful landscapes, from its immaculate Adriatic coastline to its towering mountains and lovely lakes. It's a nature lover's paradise.

2. Mediterranean Climate: Montenegro's Mediterranean climate allows for pleasant summers and moderate winters. The weather is usually lovely and ideal for outdoor activities all year round.

3. Reasonably inexpensive Cost of Living: Montenegro's cost of living is comparatively cheap compared to many other European nations, which attracts foreigners looking for a good standard of living without going over budget.

4. Rich Cultural Heritage: The history of Montenegro is rich and varied, influenced by the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras, among other cultures. Discover historic villages, medieval towns, and historical ruins.

5. Investment Opportunities: Montenegro is expanding in several industries, such as tourism, real estate, and renewable energy. It offers profitable investment opportunities for both individuals and companies.

6. Safety and Stability: Montenegro's political stability and safety are well-known. There is a minor crime, and the nation is regarded as friendly and tranquil for visitors.

7. Diverse and Vibrant Expat Community: Montenegro has attracted expatriates worldwide due to its popularity. You'll get the chance to interact with folks from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

8. Delectable food: Savor the vibrant food of Montenegro, which is influenced by Italian, Mediterranean, and Balkan culinary traditions: Savour regional wines, grilled meats, cheeses, and fresh seafood.

9. Outdoor Activities: Montenegro has a variety of outdoor activities for all interests and experience levels, whether you prefer hiking, sailing, skiing, or just lounging on the beach.

10. Simple Residency and Citizenship: Thanks to Montenegro's various residency and citizenship initiatives, especially its investment migration schemes, it is comparatively easy for foreigners to gain permanent residency or even become citizens.

Montenegro Gross Minimum Monthly Wage

Montenegro Individual - Taxes on personal income

As of 1 January 2022, salary and income earned by entrepreneurs are progressive taxed, a proportional 15% tax rate is introduced for other types of income.

The monthly salary is taxed in the following manner:

• Salaries up to 700 euros (EUR) (gross) are exempt from tax.
• Salaries from EUR 701 to EUR 1,000 (gross) are subject to 9% tax.
• Salaries from EUR 1,001 (gross) are subject to 15% tax.

Monthly income earned by entrepreneurs is taxed in the following manner:

• From EUR 8,400.01 to EUR 12,000 is subject to 9% tax.
• From EUR 12,000.01 is subject to 15% tax. 

Types of Work Visas in Montenegro

To regulate the employment of foreign nationals in Montenegro, the Montenegrin government issues three different types of work permits:

• Personal work permits: These permits can be issued to foreign nationals who reside in Montenegro. They may be issued for up to one year, and a personal work permit holder has free access to the labour market while the license is valid.
• Employment permits: Employment permits are issued to foreign nationals upon an employer's request in Montenegro.
• Work permits: A work permit is issued for seasonal employment, training, contractual work, and other business purposes limited to a short period.

To make the application more accessible, we recommend obtaining employment permits for foreign nationals who plan to work for your company in Montenegro.

Requirements to Obtain Montenegro Work Visas

To apply for a Montenegrin employment permit, foreign nationals should gather the following documents for submission:

• A valid passport
• Proof of health insurance
• A police background check from the applicant’s country of origin
• A police background check from Montenegro
• An employment offer from a company based in Montenegro

In 2022, Montenegro relaxed work and residence permit requirements and no longer requires separate evidence, such as a bank statement or proof of salary issued by the employer, to prove that the applicant has the financial means to support themselves in Montenegro. An offer of employment is now considered valid proof and must state that the employer will pay at least the minimum wage.

Application Process

Foreign nationals must obtain a residence permit to live in Montenegro before applying for an employment permit. To get this permit, applicants should visit the Montenegrin embassy or consulate in their country of residence and provide all the necessary documents to support the application.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Montenegro will issue a residence permit based on a work permit. It’s important to note that applicants must obtain a work permit for their residence permit to be valid.

For individuals who do not need a visa to enter Montenegro, the employer in Montenegro is responsible for initiating the employment permit request. Foreign nationals who do need a visa will need to apply for a permit at the embassy in their country of residence. Either way, once the employment permit is approved and issued, the employee may travel to Montenegro and begin working.

The Employment Bureau of Montenegro issues all work permits. It typically takes about one month for a Montenegrin work permit to be issued, so it’s recommended that foreign employees begin the process well in advance of their planned departure date.

Other Important Considerations

Montenegro is not currently a member of the European Union (EU). Therefore, visa and work permit requirements apply to EU member states' citizens and foreign nationals from other countries outside Europe. That said, Montenegro is a candidate for accession to the EU, and these requirements are subject to change in the future.

About AtoZ Serwis Plus

AtoZ Serwis Plus is a reputable and well-known B2C immigration agency providing specialised immigration services since 2009. With company registration offices in Poland, Portugal, Malta, Germany, and Romania and partner offices in various countries worldwide, it offers individualised immigration services to clients globally.

Supported by Polish attorneys and with company registration numbers Regon: 382604058, NIP: 5252780856, and KRS: 0000770916, AtoZ Serwis Plus Sp. z o.o. is a Polish Overseas Career Consultant and is considered one of the largest B2C immigration firms in Europe. It works closely with regulated and licensed immigration lawyers in its offices in Poland and Portugal.

AtoZ Serwis Plus has extensive experience managing international recruitment projects and specialises in providing staffing services. They assist individuals from countries such as Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and others in finding employment opportunities in Serbia, Croatia, Romania, Poland, Malta, Portugal, Germany, and other European countries.

Their services cater to individuals seeking professional growth and those looking to relocate permanently to Europe. AtoZ Serwis Plus charges reasonable fees for its services and offers flexible payment options.

Overall, AtoZ Serwis Plus aims to provide high-value immigration services, leveraging their expertise, international network, and partnerships to assist clients in achieving their career goals abroad.

For the Employer

Do you need new employees? Our Immigration agency can assist you in finding the best candidates from various countries, including:

• CIS: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan.
• Southeast Asia: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam.
• Middle East: Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates 
• Africa: Nigeria, Algeria, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire,  Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Sierra Leone, Togo, Tunisia.
• EU and EEA: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

We take a personalised approach to each of our clients and ensure that we understand your specific needs and requirements for candidates before deciding on the cost of our services. It's a critical step in the recruitment process, and we ask that you fill in all the fields as thoroughly as possible to help us and the job applicants.

Are you looking to Hire? Let us help you find the perfect candidates!

Step 1: Fill out the employer's questionnaire. Please provide us with the necessary details about your job requirements and company. We'll use this information to customise our services for you.  Fill in the form.

Step 2: Choose the best offer. Once we receive your completed questionnaire, we'll prepare a tailored proposal for recruitment, employee leasing, or outsourcing services.

Step 3: Welcome your new employee. We'll utilise our extensive network and resources to find the ideal candidate for your business. Please don't worry; we'll ensure favourable conditions for you and the employee.

Take advantage of exceptional talent for your company. Complete the employer's questionnaire today, and let us handle your hiring needs.

For Job Seeker Registration 

If you'd like to find work opportunities in Europe, please complete the application form on our website. Once you have filled out all the necessary details, our team at AtoZ Serwis Plus will look over your application and contact you to give you more information. Don't hesitate to fill out the form and take the first step towards your new job.  Fill in the form.

Would you like some advice? So that you know, the information I've included here is for you to review. You'll always need to consult with your legal and tax advisor(s) and follow their guidance. AtoZ Serwis Plus cannot assist with legal or tax matters. The information presented is not specific to any particular company or workforce nor reflects how AtoZ Serwis Plus products are distributed in any jurisdiction. Instead, it is general. AtoZ Serwis Plus makes no representations or warranties regarding this information's accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. It shall not be liable for any losses from using or relying on it. Please be careful when using this information.

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