Published: 30.10.2026
According to the acting head of the relevant Interior Ministry department, around 80% of foreigners who sought to regularize their stay in the previous two months had abused the system. Foreigners whose applications are rejected have a right to appeal, while approximately 70,000 current residence-permit holders are not expected to face problems, according to the statement.
Sources point to increased scrutiny of foreigners trying to obtain or regularize lawful residence in Montenegro. In practice, this makes documented proof of the residence basis more important and preserves the option of appealing a rejected application. Existing residence permits are not expected to be affected, according to the Interior Ministry official quoted, and people who entered in October may apply for temporary residence if they meet the prescribed conditions. The update matters most to people currently regularizing their stay or preparing a residence application, rather than to holders of valid permits.