← All Montenegro news

Montenegro Changed Residence, Work-Permit and Long-Stay D Visa Rules for Foreigners

Published: 16.01.2026

A law published on 9 January 2026 took effect on 17 January and changed the rules governing foreigners’ entry, residence and economic activity. IT and healthcare workers may obtain temporary residence and work permits for up to three years, with a possible extension; electronic D-visa applications and additional grounds, including digital nomad status, property ownership and family reunification, were also introduced.

According to the source, the main practical change is the introduction of longer permits for IT and healthcare workers and electronic D-visa applications. This may reduce the need for annual renewals for qualified employees, but applicants need an employment contract with a Montenegrin employer lasting at least 12 months, while healthcare professionals must also prove their education and qualifications. The expanded D-visa grounds create additional relocation routes for employment, family reunification, property ownership and digital nomad activity. The change is particularly relevant to workers, digital nomads, property owners and families planning a move in 2026.