New Digital Nomad Visa for Montenegro - What we know so far…

Is it here yet? The Exciting New Digital Nomad Visa for Montenegro!

14 Feb 2023
Written By Jonathan Howe

Does Montenegro have a digital nomad visa?

The Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa is still not here yet... However, we do have some news to update you with about eligibility and application requirements. Keep reading on to find out, or use this link to skip straight to the - Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa - Applying and Requirements - section.
Are you tired of being confined to your home country as a digital nomad? Consider expanding your horizons and exploring the possibility of living in Montenegro. With its stunning natural beauty, warm climate, and low cost of living, Montenegro is fast becoming a popular destination for digital nomads. And with the introduction of the soon-to-be-launched "Digital Nomad Visa for Montenegro", the country is set to become even more accessible and attractive to remote workers. In this article, we will explore the advantages of living in Montenegro and provide information on the new Digital Nomad Visa, offering you a comprehensive guide to this exciting opportunity. So whether you're a seasoned digital nomad, or just considering a change, keep reading to learn about the possibilities that await you in Montenegro.

Are you looking for the best destinations for digital nomads in Montenegro? Then read this article - Discover the Best Places for Digital Nomads in Montenegro

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Thumbnail and first image for article about the proposed new Digital Nomad Visa in Montenegro
New Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa - The details so far!
Contents:
Digital Nomads and Remote Workers in Montenegro
The Current Digital Nomad Situation in Montenegro
Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa - Applying and Requirements
Benefits of Living and Working in Montenegro
Tax Advantages of Living in Montenegro
Challenges of Living and Working in Montenegro
Conclusions - Is Montenegro an attractive destination for Digital Nomads?

Digital Nomads and Remote Workers in Montenegro

Purpose of this blog article

The purpose of this blog article is to provide information on the new Digital Nomads Visa for Montenegro. The visa is designed specifically for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers who are looking for a new and exciting place to live and work. With its stunning natural beauty, affordable cost of living, and modern infrastructure, Montenegro has become an attractive destination for digital nomads. The Digital Nomads Visa allows them to live and work in the country for an extended period of time, giving them the freedom and flexibility to explore the country and its culture while pursuing their careers.
In this blog article, we will discuss the eligibility requirements for the Digital Nomads Visa, the benefits of living and working in Montenegro, and what digital nomads can expect while living in the country. Whether you're a freelancer, remote worker, or just someone looking for a change of pace, this visa offers a unique opportunity to live and work in one of Europe's most beautiful countries. So, if you're looking to join the growing community of digital nomads and live a life of freedom and flexibility, read on to find out more about the Digital Nomads Visa for Montenegro.

What is a Digital Nomad?

A digital nomad is a person who leverages technology to work remotely from anywhere in the world. These individuals are not bound to a specific location and can travel freely while still earning an income. They often work in industries such as software development, content creation, or digital marketing, and can be found working from coffee shops, co-working spaces, or even from the beach.
The rise of the digital nomad lifestyle has been driven by advancements in technology and the increasing popularity of remote work. Digital nomads are attracted to this lifestyle as it offers greater flexibility, the ability to travel and experience new cultures, and the opportunity to work in a location-independent manner.
While the concept of digital nomads may seem like a new phenomenon, the truth is that remote work has been around for many years. However, the rise of high-speed internet, cloud computing, and mobile devices has made it possible for more people to work from anywhere in the world.
"Nearly 17 million Americans identified as digital nomads in 2022, up 131% from 2019," according to Larry English, writing about the rise of digital nomadism for Forbes.com in January 2023.
Digital nomads are clearly a growing community, with more and more people choosing this lifestyle every day. The benefits of this lifestyle are many, including increased productivity, a better work-life balance, and the ability to save money on commuting and other work-related expenses.
Overall, the definition of a digital nomad is someone who has the freedom to work and travel as they please, using technology to remain connected to their clients, customers, and colleagues. If you're looking for a lifestyle that offers more freedom and flexibility, then becoming a digital nomad might be the right choice for you.
Image of a digital nomad working on their laptop in a tropical location
What is a Digital Nomad?

What is the difference between a “Digital Nomad” and a “Remote Worker”?

The main difference between a digital nomad and a remote worker is their location and mobility. A remote worker is someone who works from a remote location, usually their home, while a digital nomad is someone who works remotely while traveling and can change their location regularly.
A remote worker generally works from a fixed location, such as their home or a co-working space, while a digital nomad has the ability to work from anywhere with a stable internet connection. A remote worker is often tied to one location, while a digital nomad can work from a variety of locations and travel from place to place.
Another difference is their work arrangement. While both remote workers and digital nomads may work for a company or be self-employed, digital nomads are often freelancers or entrepreneurs who are not tied to a single company or employer.
In summary, a remote worker works from a remote location and does not have the freedom to travel or change location, while a digital nomad is a remote worker who is able to work from anywhere and is not tied to a single location.
For the purposes of this article, we will be using the terms “Digital Nomads” and “Remote Workers” interchangeably, as the proposed digital nomad visa for Montenegro makes no distinction between them.
Image showing a typical interpretation of a digital nomad, alongside an image of a typical interpretation of a remote worker
What is the difference between a Digital Nomad and a Remote Worker?

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A Digital Nomad Visa is a type of visa designed for individuals who work remotely and want to live and travel in a different country for an extended period of time. This visa allows remote workers, also known as digital nomads, to legally reside in a foreign country while continuing to work online for their employer or as freelancers. The concept of the Digital Nomad Visa has gained popularity as more people embrace the remote work lifestyle, and countries are beginning to offer such visas to attract these talented individuals to their shores. Variations of this visa include Remote Work Visa, Nomad Visa, and location-independent visa.

If you are interested in a longer-term solution to relocating to Montenegro, have a look at the following pages:
An image of an open passport and a camera on a desk, to imply the subject of Digital Nomad Visas
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

Overview of the Digital Nomad Visa in Montenegro

In December 2021, the government of Montenegro announced the Program for Attracting Digital Nomads to Montenegro which was set to run until 2025. The program was created in response to the growing trend of digital nomads and the desire to attract this growing population to Montenegro. The concept of attracting digital nomads as a way to boost a country's economy and improve its international standing has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many countries have realized the potential benefits of attracting digital nomads, including increased tourism, the development of new business opportunities, and the creation of a highly skilled and international workforce.
The Program for Attracting Digital Nomads in Montenegro was created with these benefits in mind and to position the country as a destination for digital nomads.
(Source - Government of Montenegro - 28 December 2021)

Key features of the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa (Residence Permit)

  • 2 Years
    The Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa would be valid for up to 2 years, with the possibility to extend for another 2 years
  • Non-EU
    So far it has been announced that only non-EU citizens will be able to apply
  • Cost - 67 Euros
    The proposed application fee is 67 Euros
  • Tax Breaks
    It has not yet been confirmed how digital nomads will be considered under existing income tax regulations.
Similar to the Croatian “Digital Nomad Visa”, Montenegro is actually offering a form of “Temporary Residence Permit” rather than a long-term visa. The Montenegro Digital Nomad Residence Permit will be valid for up to 2 years, with the ability to extend for a further 2 years.
(All of the details stated have yet to be verified and are subject to change at any time.)

The Type D Visa for Digital Nomads in Montenegro

The changes to the existing legislation around Type D (Business) Visas in Montenegro are something that will likely cause confusion due to the terminology used. It will be possible to apply for a Montenegro Type D visa as a Digital Nomad with the process being exactly the same as all other cases, except that the formal invitation letter (actually a letter of guarantee) will not be required. This visa will be granted for up to 180 days in a 1 year period. Many digital nomads will find that they are not eligible to apply for this visa, due to the fact that they are already eligible to enter Montenegro visa-free which usually makes a person ineligible to apply for a Montenegro visa.
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The Current Digital Nomad Situation in Montenegro

History of Digital Nomads in Montenegro

Like many countries around the world, “digital nomads” have been visiting Montenegro for a long time before the term itself became popularized by the increased prevalence of the “online entrepreneur.” However, it wasn’t until the announcement in 2020 that Croatia was planning to introduce its Digital Nomad Visa and Residency program that the discussion really began about a similar program in Montenegro. In Decmeber of 2021, the Montenegro government announced that it had adopted the Programme for Attracting Digital Nomads in Montenegro which would stay in place until 2025.
Although there has been a lot of interest in the program (I receive enquiries on a daily basis for potential applicants), there have still been no applications processed and there is no date set to start.

Why Montenegro is attractive to Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Montenegro is becoming increasingly attractive to digital nomads and remote workers for a number of reasons, including:
  1. Beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities: Montenegro is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its coastline along the Adriatic Sea and its mountainous landscapes. This makes it an ideal destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports.
  2. Affordable cost of living: Compared to many other European countries, Montenegro offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an affordable destination for digital nomads and remote workers who are looking to live and work abroad.
  3. Strong Wi-Fi and internet connectivity: Montenegro has good internet infrastructure, with many areas offering high-speed Wi-Fi, making it possible for digital nomads and remote workers to stay connected and be productive while they are there.
  4. Friendly and welcoming culture: Montenegrins are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it easy for digital nomads and remote workers to feel welcome and at home in their new surroundings.
  5. Access to European destinations: Montenegro is located in southeastern Europe, near several other popular European destinations, including Croatia, Italy, Greece, and Slovenia. This makes it easy for digital nomads and remote workers to travel and explore new places while they are working in Montenegro.

Current state of Digital Nomad Community in Montenegro

The current state of the digital nomad community in Montenegro is that it doesn’t really exist in any sort of organized and cohesive manner. There are various ex-pat and foreigner social media groups which can be helpful, but there is nothing that’s really useful in the way of an online community dedicated to digital nomads and remote workers. Personally, I see this as a sign that it's not something that is required as most people are quite capable of organising themselves, socially and professionally. The result of this is that we don’t have a clear picture of how many digital nomads and remote workers are currently living in or simply passing through Montenegro as part of their travels. One thing that we do know for sure, however, is that new and existing co-working spaces are getting busier and cafes with high-quality coffee and a good internet connection have a lot more laptops in them than the previous years!
Taking this evidence into account, it’s safe to say that the digital nomad and remote worker scene in Montenegro is developing and evolving on its own, even without a structured solution from the government. While there is a local digital nomad association or something of the like that has been registered, it hasn’t really done anything yet other than post on social media occasionally.
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Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa - Applying and Requirements

Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

The eligibility criteria for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa, or residence permit, are based primarily on the applicant’s employment by a registered company outside of Montenegro. So far, with the information that has been made available, there has been no allowance made for those digital nomads and remote workers who earn their income only through freelance work. The minimum income requirement has been set at three times the national minimum salary - 3 X 450 Euros per month = 1350 Euros.

Eligibility Criteria for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa (Residence Permit)

The minimum application requirements as currently known:
  • Minimum income requirement of 1350 Euros per month (Previous 12 months)
  • Proof of accommodation in Montenegro
  • Proof of Remote Employment with a non-MNE company
  • Proof of Health Insurance
  • Proof of registration for national health and pension in the home country
  • Criminal record certificate from home country
NOTE - Depending on the country of origin of the submitted documents, Apostille may be required depending on bilateral agreements. All of the details stated have yet to be verified and are subject to change at any time.
The exact documents required to be submitted as proof of the above requirements are also still subject to confirmation by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Application process

The application process for both the Type D visa and the Digital Nomad residence permit will follow the existing procedure for all other types of visa and permit applications. Visa applications need to be made at a Montenegro embassy, or a Serbian embassy if a Montenegrin one is not accessible.
Digital Nomad resident permit applications will take place inside Montenegro at the Ministry of Interior Affairs application center (MUP) of the chosen city.
All documents must be in the Montenegrin language and notarised or apostille in line with legal requirements. When we have further confirmation of the document requirements we will be able to elaborate further. If the application process is the same or similar to other residence permit applications, the applicant will likely find that they need the assistance of a local agent to navigate the process for them.

Cost and Processing Time

The application cost for the Digital Nomad Residence Permit will most likely be the same as for other types of residence permits - 67 Euros. However, this does not include any of the costs for documents translation, notarization, apostille, local health insurance etc.

Required Documents

The exact documents required for the application process have not yet been confirmed. However, we can make some educated assumptions based on our professional experience of processing hundreds of Montenegro residence permit applications. Here is the most recent list of requirements that have been released so far. Below each of them is our assumption of the types of documents that could be required:

Please note again that all of the above is subject to further confirmation and should not be taken as a final guide on how to apply for a Montenegro Digital Nomad visa/residence permit.
(Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs, Government of Montenegro - 2023)
  • PROOF OF ACCOMMODATION
    Notarized rental contract covering the period of the digital nomad permit
  • HEALTH INSURANCE
    30 days local health insurance to cover the applicant during the application process.
  • MINIMUM INCOME
    Proof of employment contract with a foreign company and minimum income of Є1350 Euros for the previous 12 months. Proof of remote work agreement.
  • HEALTH AND PENSION
    Proof that the applicant is registered for national health and pension insurance in their home country. This requirement will have to differ per country.
  • PROOF OF COMPANY REGISTRATION
    Company Registration Certificate of the foreign employer
  • CRIMINAL RECORD CERTIFICATE

    Certificate of No Criminal Record proving that the applicant has not been sentenced to prison for longer than 6 months for criminal offences in their home country.
  • PASSPORT COPY
    The passport of the applicant must be valid for at least 3 months after the validity of the requested permit
  • APPLICATION FEES
    Application fees and taxes are thought to be the same as other types of residence permit applications:
    Є60.00 + Є5.00 + Є2.00 Euros

Benefits of Living and Working in Montenegro

Living and working in Montenegro is becoming increasingly popular and there is a lot of excitement about the country's proposed new Digital Nomad Visa. This visa offers a range of benefits for digital nomads looking for a change of scenery. With its stunning scenery, relaxed lifestyle, and low cost of living, Montenegro is the perfect place for digital nomads to live, work, and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer. Whether it's exploring the rolling hills, relaxing on the beaches, or experiencing the local culture, living in Montenegro is an unforgettable experience. So if you're looking for a new home base as a digital nomad, consider the many benefits of living in Montenegro.

Lifestyle in Montenegro

Montenegro is known for its picturesque scenery, including rolling hills, stunning beaches, and charming villages. With a mild climate and friendly locals, it's the perfect place for digital nomads to work and relax. Whether hiking in the mountains, exploring the beaches, or enjoying the local cuisine, there's always something to do in Montenegro. The country's affordable cost of living also means that digital nomads can enjoy all this without breaking the bank. Much of the Montenegro lifestyle revolves around the Adriatic coastline and the quintessentially Balkan “coffee bar culture.” There is little more Montenegrin than spending an hour or so in a cafe discussing life, work, relationships, politics, food or anything else that springs to mind. This means that coffee shops and cafe bars are everywhere. If you are standing outside of one, you can usually see at least two more!
Photo of a small bar in a quiet street in Kotor, Montenegro and photo of a restaurant table next to the sea
Lifestyle in Montenegro

Cost of Living in Montenegro

One of the biggest advantages of the "Digital Nomad Visa" in Montenegro is its low cost of living. Compared to other popular destinations for digital nomads, Montenegro offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost. From affordable housing and food to cheap transportation and entertainment, digital nomads can live comfortably in Montenegro without sacrificing their standard of living. With its low cost of living, combined with its relaxed lifestyle and stunning scenery, Montenegro is the perfect destination for digital nomads looking for a change of pace.
For example, Living costs in Tivat, Montenegro are 36.8% lower than in Bristol, United Kingdom without factoring rental prices. Rent prices in Tivat are an incredible 50% lower than those in Bristol! And this is for a modern lifestyle on the Adriatic sea.

(Source: Numbeo.com, February 8th 2023)

Montenegro Cost of Living Comparison Table

Comparison table showing the difference in living costs between Tivat in Montenegro, Bristol UK, Frankfurt Germany and Austin Texas
Montenegro Cost of Living Table

Access to coworking spaces and other amenities

Coworking and coliving spaces in Montenegro were quite rare until the past several years, when the subject of remote work started becoming more normalized. In 2019 there were as little as four coworking spaces in the whole country and only a couple of those could be considered a decent standard. Then of course, Covid-19 came along in 2020 which set the remote work snowball rolling down the hillside. Now there are at least 14 coworking spaces and most importantly they really cater to the needs of digital nomads and remote workers.
Check out our blog article about Coworking Spaces in Montenegro!
Image of a digital nomad coworking space in Tivat in Montenegro
Co-working Spaces for Digital Nomads in Montenegro

Tax Advantages of Living in Montenegro

Living in Montenegro offers numerous benefits, and one of the most significant is the low-income tax rate. This article explores the personal and corporate income tax rates in Montenegro and provides important information for those considering residing in the country.

Personal Income Tax in Montenegro

Income taxes in Montenegro are lower compared to many other countries, with a base income tax rate of 9% for both personal and corporate income tax and 15% for higher income levels. According to PWC Worldwide Tax Summaries, personal income for foreigners is taxed in a progressive manner.

New Tax Rates in 2022

In 2022, Montenegro introduced a new rate of income tax for entrepreneurs, which ranges from 9% to 15% based on their salary. Additionally, the progressive taxation of salary was also introduced, with tax exemptions for salaries up to EUR 700 and tax rates of 9% and 15% for salaries ranging from EUR 701 to EUR 1,000 and above EUR 1,000, respectively.

Corporate Income Tax in Montenegro

Entities operating in Montenegro are subject to progressive corporate profit tax (CPT), with tax rates varying from 9% to 15% depending on their profit. Resident taxpayers are taxed on their worldwide profit, while non-resident taxpayers are taxed on their Montenegrin-sourced income or income attributed to their Montenegrin permanent establishment (PE). Non-residents are also subject to withholding tax (WHT) on income sourced in Montenegro.

183 Days in Montenegro - Tax Residency

It is crucial to note that as soon as you have spent 183 days or more in Montenegro, you become liable for personal income tax. This is an important consideration, as if your country does not have a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Montenegro, you could become liable for income tax in both countries.
In conclusion, the low-income tax rates in Montenegro make it an attractive place to live for individuals and businesses. With a progressive taxation system and a range of tax exemptions and rates, it's essential to understand the tax implications before making the decision to reside in the country.

(Source - https://taxsummaries.pwc.com/montenegro - 13 February 2023)

Montenegro Income Tax Comparison Chart

Column Chart showing a comparison between Personal and Corporate Income Tax rates in Montenegro, Singapore, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Denmark ,Belgium, United States, France, Germany, Australia
Montenegro Personal and Corporate Income Tax Comparison Chart
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Challenges of Living and Working in Montenegro

Living in Montenegro can come with its own set of challenges, which are important to be aware of before making the move.

Culture Shock

Adjusting to a new country and its way of life can be a challenge for many people. Montenegro has its own unique culture, and it may take time for individuals to get used to it. Having said that, Montenegro culture is still very much a blend of east and west European, with Slavic influences from the north and Turkish influences from the south.

Language Barrier

Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas, it may not be as commonly spoken in other parts of the country. This can make communicating and getting around more difficult for those who do not speak the local language.

Access to Healthcare

Access to healthcare services in Montenegro may be limited, especially in rural areas. It is important to research and compare options before making the move to ensure you have access to the medical care you need, especially if you have specific health concerns.

Seasonal Weather

Montenegro experiences very seasonal weather, which can range from hot and humid in the summer to cold and snowy in the winter. It is important to be prepared for the changes in weather and to have the right clothing and gear to stay comfortable. It also depends heavily on your location within the country. Make sure to pack warm clothes if traveling to the mountains, even in the summer!
Image of a man standing on the Tara Bridge in Montenegro on a snowy winter day
It's not all sunshine and rainbows in Montenegro! Tara Bridge in Winter

Limited availability of some products and services

Montenegro experiences very seasonal weather, which can range from hot and humid in the summer to cold and snowy in the winter. It is important to be prepared for the changes in weather and to have the right clothing and gear to stay comfortable. It also depends heavily on your location within the country. Make sure to pack warm clothes if traveling to the mountains, even in the summer!

Small population with limited spending power

Montenegro has a small population and a limited spending power, which can affect the availability of certain goods and services, as well as the local economy. This is also a very important consideration for any business plans you have for the country. It’s very easy to overestimate the amount of interest there will be for a product or service you feel is lacking. The fact is, the majority of the approximately 660k might not have the money or the interest for it.

Limited employment market, especially for foreigners

The employment market in Montenegro can be limited, especially for foreigners. It is important to research job opportunities and to consider starting your own business to increase your chances of finding work. Unless someone has a job offer lined up in advance, I usually don’t advise anyone to arrive here needing to find a job quickly.

Conclusions - Is Montenegro an attractive destination for Digital Nomads?

When considering the pros and cons of living and working as a digital nomad in Montenegro, there are a few key points to keep in mind. The country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, affordability, and friendly locals, making it a top destination for remote workers.

Recap of Key Points

  • Low cost of living and taxes compared with other European countries
  • Unclear direction of the Program for Attracting Digital Nomads
  • Very accessible temporary residency options
  • Stunning natural beauty and access to outdoor activities
  • Safe and welcoming community with friendly locals
  • Good internet infrastructure and growing startup ecosystem
  • Challenging cultural and language barriers, and limited availability of products and services

Final Thoughts

Overall, Montenegro is a promising destination for digital nomads looking for a new and exciting place to call home. With its combination of stunning natural beauty, affordability, and a friendly local community, it offers a unique experience for remote workers.

Should Digital Nomads consider Montenegro as a Destination?

If you are a digital nomad looking for a new and affordable place to live and work, Montenegro is definitely worth considering. With its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor recreation opportunities, and low cost of living, it offers a unique and exciting experience for remote workers.

Further Information and Assistance.

If you would like to learn more about living and working as a digital nomad in Montenegro, our team is here to help. Contact us for more information and assistance with your move.
Every story is unique and requires a unique approach. Prepare your questions and we will help you to start your relocation process.
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