If you’re one of the many digital nomads looking for new destinations to work remotely, Montenegro may be just what you’re looking for. This beautiful country on the Adriatic Sea offers stunning natural scenery, a low cost of living, and favorable tax policies that make it an attractive option for remote workers. In this article, we’ll explore the requirements for working remotely in Montenegro and the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa.
What is a Digital Nomad?
Before we dive into the details, let’s define what we mean by “digital nomad.” A digital nomad is someone who works remotely and uses technology to earn a living while traveling the world. Thanks to advances in technology and the increasing prevalence of remote work, digital nomads are becoming more and more common.
Why Montenegro?
Montenegro has become a popular destination for digital nomads in recent years thanks to its beautiful natural scenery, low cost of living, and favorable tax policies. With its stunning coastline, mountainous regions, and historic cities, Montenegro has something for everyone.
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Requirements for Working Remotely in Montenegro
If you’re planning on working remotely from Montenegro, there are a few requirements you’ll need to meet. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A valid passport
- A visa (if you plan on staying for more than 90 days)
- Registration with the local police within 24 hours of arriving in Montenegro
- Fast and reliable internet connection
Montenegro has a fast and reliable internet connection, which is essential for digital nomads. There are also several co-working spaces and cafes with Wi-Fi that cater to remote workers.
Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa: Applying and Requirements
The Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa, or residence permit, is designed for remote workers who want to live and work in Montenegro. The eligibility criteria are based primarily on the applicant’s employment by a registered company outside of Montenegro, so freelance workers may not be eligible. The minimum income requirement is currently €1,350 per month, which is three times the national minimum salary.
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Eligibility Criteria for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa (Residence Permit)
To be eligible for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Minimum income requirement of €1,350 per month (previous 12 months)
- Proof of accommodation in Montenegro
- Proof of remote employment with a non-Montenegrin company
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of registration for national health and pension in the home country
- Criminal record certificate from home country
Please note that 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.
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Application Process
The application process for both the Type D visa and the Digital Nomad residence permit follows the existing procedure for all other types of visa and permit applications. Visa applications must be made at a Montenegro embassy or a Serbian embassy if a Montenegrin embassy 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 notarized or apostille in line with legal requirements. The exact documents required to be submitted as proof of the above requirements are still subject to confirmation by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
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, which is currently €67. However, this does not include any of the costs for document translation, notarization, apostille, local health insurance, etc. The processing time for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa is subject to confirmation, and it is advisable to consult with a local agent to navigate the process.
Required Documents
The exact documents required for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa application process have not yet been confirmed. However, based on professional experience with processing hundreds of Montenegro residence permit applications, the following documents are likely to be required:
- Notarized rental contract covering the period of the digital nomad permit as proof of accommodation
- Proof of employment contract with a foreign company and minimum income of €1,350 Euros for the previous 12 months as proof of remote employment
- Proof of national health and pension insurance registration in the home country as proof of health and pension insurance
- Company Registration Certificate of the foreign employer as proof of company registration
- Certificate of No Criminal Record proving that the applicant has not been sentenced to prison for longer than 6 months for criminal offenses in their home country
- A valid passport copy
Please note 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.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Montenegro offers a great opportunity for digital nomads to work remotely in a beautiful country with a low cost of living and favorable tax policies. However, it is important to be aware of the requirements for the Montenegro Digital Nomad Visa and to ensure that all necessary documents are in order before beginning the application process. Every story is unique and requires a unique approach, so it is recommended to prepare your questions and seek assistance from a local agent to navigate the process.
