Why is Montenegro a good choice for foreigners for employment purposes?
Montenegro can be a good choice for several reasons:
Growing economy: Montenegro has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, driven by sectors such as tourism, construction and energy. This growth creates employment opportunities and a favorable business environment for both local and foreign workers.
Strategic location: Montenegro is strategically located in the Balkan region, making it a gateway to both the Adriatic Sea and Southeast Europe. This geographical advantage opens up opportunities for trade, business and cooperation with neighboring countries.
Favorable business environment: The government of Montenegro is making efforts to create a favorable business environment by implementing favorable investment policies and simplifying administrative procedures. The country has attracted foreign direct investment and has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.
English language skills: English is widely spoken in Montenegro, especially in urban areas and in the business environment. This makes it easier for foreigners to communicate and work in the country, reducing language barriers.
Cultural diversity and tolerance: Montenegro is a diverse country with a multicultural and tolerant society. It welcomes people from different backgrounds and promotes an inclusive environment for foreigners to live and work.
Tax incentives:Montenegro offers certain tax incentives to attract foreign investment and business. These incentives may include reduced corporate tax rates, exemptions and privileges for certain sectors or regions.
In what areas is there a demand for employment in Montenegro?
Foreigners in Montenegro can find employment opportunities in various fields.
Areas where there are job opportunities:
Tourism and hotel and restaurant business: Montenegro is known for its beautiful coastline and tourist attractions. The tourism sector offers employment opportunities in hotels, resorts, restaurants, travel agencies, tour operators and related businesses. Knowledge of foreign languages, especially English, can be useful in this sector.
Information Technology (IT):Montenegro is developing its IT sector, offering opportunities for foreign IT professionals. Employment prospects can be found in software development, programming, web design, IT project management and other technology-related fields.
Language teaching: Foreigners with English or other languages can consider teaching at language schools, universities, or private tutors. There is a demand for teaching English, Russian, German and other languages.
Real estate and construction:The real estate market in Montenegro is growing, which opens up opportunities in the field of development, sales, property management and construction-related professions.
Energy and renewable resources: Montenegro is investing in renewable energy projects, creating employment opportunities in areas such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
Business and finance: Foreigners with experience in business management, finance, accounting or consulting can find opportunities in the corporate sector in Montenegro, financial institutions or international companies operating in the country.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): There are various non-governmental organizations in Montenegro that deal with issues such as human rights, environmental protection, social welfare and community development. Foreigners with relevant skills and experience can find employment or volunteer opportunities in these organizations.
Freelancing and remote work: With the growth of digital nomadism and remote work opportunities, Montenegro can become an attractive destination for foreigners who want to work independently or remotely in various fields such as freelancing, graphic design, software development, and online consulting.
During the summer season in Montenegro, the following professions are in demand: waitresses and waiters, bartenders, cooks, hostesses, guides and tour guides, beach animators, promoters, realtors, diving instructors and other outdoor activities and entertainment.
Job search portals
Although there may not be specific job portals for foreigners in Montenegro, several general job portals and recruitment sites may be useful for foreigners looking for employment opportunities in the country. Here are some popular job portals in Montenegro:
Infostud (infostud.com): Infostud is a popular online platform that provides job listings, company profiles, and career resources in Montenegro. It covers various job categories and offers both full-time and part-time employment.
MojPosao (mojposao.me): MojPosao is a job portal that serves as a platform for job seekers and employers in Montenegro. It contains job listings in various industries, and users can create profiles and upload resumes.
LinkedIn (linkedin.com): LinkedIn is a widely used professional networking platform that connects professionals and job seekers around the world. It allows you to search for job opportunities in Montenegro, connect with professionals, and build your professional network.
When searching for jobs on these portals, you can use keywords such as "for foreigners," "English speakers," and specific industries or job titles to narrow down your search.
In addition, networking, applying to recruitment agencies and direct contacts with companies you are interested in in Montenegro can also be effective in finding employment opportunities for foreigners.
It's important to check these portals regularly and tailor your applications to meet the requirements of the job postings. Be prepared to provide relevant documents and demonstrate your qualifications and experience when applying.
To regulate the employment of foreigners in Montenegro, the government issues three types of employment permits:
Personal employment permit
This is a license that allows foreigners free access to the labor market regardless of their status and market relations. A foreigner with a personal employment permit has the same status as a Montenegrin citizen with regard to unemployment and work rights.
Who can get this permission?
This work permit can be issued to foreigners:
With a permanent place of residence, in accordance with the Law on Foreigners
Refugees
Individuals under additional protection under the Asylum Law and the new Law on International and Temporary Protection of Foreigners.
What is the validity period of the permit?
A personal employment permit is issued upon application by a foreigner for an indefinite period, in exceptional cases it can be issued for a period of up to one year.
Note: In the new law, refugees are referred to as "foreigners who have applied for international protection and foreigners who have been granted protection in Montenegro" and migrants as "foreigners who have applied for international protection in Montenegro". The law refers to the term "refugee" as a foreigner who has been granted asylum (asylum seeker).
Employment permit
This is a permit according to which the employer concludes an employment contract with a foreigner and is issued at the request of the employer, a legal entity or an organizational unit of a foreign company registered in Montenegro.
As an exception, an employer will not be denied a request for an employment permit for foreigners:
With a higher education in management affairs
Family members of a citizen of Montenegro (wife and children under 21)
Employer's family members (wife and children under 21)
By profession, for which it is impossible to provide education in Montenegro.
What are the requirements for obtaining an employment permit in Montenegro?
In order to apply for a work permit in Montenegro, foreign citizens must collect the following documents for submission:
Valid passport
Certificate of medical insurance
Police check from the applicant's country of origin
Police check from Montenegro
Job offer from a company from Montenegro.
What is the process of application for an employment permit?
Before applying for an employment permit, foreign nationals will need to obtain a residence permit for Montenegro. To obtain this permit, applicants must visit the Montenegrin embassy or consulate in their country of residence and provide all the necessary documents to confirm the application.
Work permit
This is a permit with a predetermined duration of work, according to which the employer concludes an employment contract with a foreigner (with a legal entity with headquarters in Montenegro or an organizational unit of a foreign company registered in Montenegro that carries out the delivery, services or other form of work based on civil law contracts).
Who can get this permit?
This permit can be for:
Seasonal work of foreigners
Work with addressed foreigners (cross-border services, professional development and training, transfer of persons within a foreign company)
Training and education of foreigners
Provision of contractual services.
What is the validity period of the permit?
Permits are issued for a limited period, namely for a period of three months to one year, with the possibility of extension for another two years, depending on the type of permit.
Who issues a work permit?
All work permits are issued by the Employment Office of Montenegro.
How long does it take to get a permit?
The employment office is obliged to make a decision on the request within 30 days from the date of submission of the request.
What is the additional information about a work permit in Montenegro?
In 2022, Montenegro eased the requirements for obtaining a work and residence permit and no longer requires separate evidence, such as a bank statement or salary confirmation issued by an employer, to prove that the applicant has the financial means to support themselves in Montenegro. An offer of employment is now considered valid evidence and must state that the employer will pay at least minimum wage.
For individuals who do not require a visa to enter Montenegro, the employer in Montenegro is responsible for applying for an employment permit. Foreign citizens who need a visa will need to apply for a permit at the embassy in their country of residence.
Check if you need a visa at the link
If you are a citizen from an African country, you will need to obtain a visa to enter Montenegro, including for work purposes.
Long-stay visa D allows a foreigner to visit Montenegro for six months within one year. This visa is issued for single, double or multiple entries.
A long-term D visa is issued to a foreigner for the following reasons:
- Work.
- Training.
- Entrepreneurial activity.
- Treatment.
- Seasonal work.
- Exchange studies.
- Family reunification.
- Humanitarian reasons.
- Research work;
Visa requirements;
Submit these documents to apply for a Montenegrin visa:
Valid passport. To apply for a Montenegrin visa, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your return date. Attach copies of your previous visas (if any).
One passport-size photo.The photo must be in color, with a light background and taken within the last six months.
Application form. Fill out the application form completely online, print out a hard copy and sign it at the end. Do not leave any gaps.
Payment of the fee. Finish paying the visa fee and attach the payment receipt to the other required documents.
Confirmation of travel health insurance. A document confirming that you have valid health insurance for the entire period of your stay in Montenegro.
Bank account statement. A bank account statement is a document issued by your bank and it should prove that you are financially stable and can finance yourself in Montenegro.
Proof of residence in Montenegro. This document can be an invitation letter from your family member or friend, hotel reservation, rental agreement, etc.
Letter of invitation.The letter of invitation is a letter issued by your family members or a friend who already lives in Montenegro. It confirms that you have a place to stay during your stay in Montenegro.
Round trip itinerary. A flight itinerary is a document issued at the airport by the airline you plan to travel with. This document should contain detailed information about your flight, such as the date and time of the flight, including your return ticket. Your return ticket must confirm that you plan to return to your home country after the expiration of your visa.
How to apply for a visa to Montenegro?
To apply for a Montenegrin visa, you must visit the Montenegrin consulate or embassy in your country.The procedure for applying for a Montenegrin visa is as follows:
Validity of a Montenegrin visa
The validity of a Montenegrin visa depends on its type. With a short-stay visa, you can stay in Montenegro for 90 days within a 180-day period. If you apply for a long-stay visa, you can stay in Montenegro for 365 days.
Obtaining a residence permit in Montenegro
A residence permit will allow you to stay in Montenegro for longer than one year. However, depending on how long you plan to stay, you can apply for
- Temporary residence permit;
- Permanent residence permit;
Temporary residence permit
If you plan to stay in Montenegro for longer than six months, you can apply for a temporary residence permit. A temporary residence permit allows you to stay in Montenegro for a maximum period of one year and can be extended. A residence permit is issued for the same reasons as a long-term visa (work, study, family reunification, etc.);
Permanent residence permit
Permanent residence is issued to a foreign national who has been residing in Montenegro for five years on the basis of a temporary residence permit. Permanent residence is issued for five years and can be extended indefinitely. This permit is issued on the same grounds as a temporary residence permit.
Is Montenegro a good place to start a business?
Montenegro is an Eastern European country that has everything investors and entrepreneurs need in a jurisdiction - low tax rates, a favorable business environment, a strategic location on the Adriatic coast, and much more. The country is also a candidate country for EU membership.
Starting a business in Montenegro for a foreigner involves several steps:
Legal forms of business:Foreigners can choose from various legal forms of doing business in Montenegro, such as a limited liability company (LLC), joint stock company (JSC), branch or representative office. The most common form is the LLC.
Business registration: To register a business in Montenegro, you need to submit the necessary documents to the Central Register of Business Entities (CRPS). The required documents usually include the company's articles of association, identity documents of the founders/shareholders, and proof of paid-in capital (minimum capital requirements apply).
Reserving a name: Before registering your business, it is advisable to check the availability of your desired company name and reserve it with CRPS. This step ensures that no other company uses the same name.
Capital requirements: Montenegro has specific minimum capital requirements for different types of companies. The minimum authorized capital for an LLC is usually 1 euro, while for a JSC this amount is higher.
Taxation: Familiarize yourself with the tax system in Montenegro, including corporate income tax, value added tax (VAT), personal income tax, and social security contributions. Consult an accountant or tax advisor to ensure compliance with your tax obligations.
Business permits and licenses:Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain certain permits or licenses. Consult the Ministry of Economy or relevant authorities to determine the requirements for your specific industry.
Employment and labor laws:If you plan to hire employees, familiarize yourself with Montenegro's labor laws, including minimum wage, working hours, and employment contracts.
Banking and financial matters: Open a business bank account with a reliable bank in Montenegro to manage your business finances. Consult with banks to understand their requirements and services available to foreign businesses.
When starting a business in Montenegro, you will need to prepare and submit certain documents as part of the registration process. The specific documents required may vary depending on the legal form of the business (e.g., LLC, JSC, branch) and other factors. However, here are some typical documents you may need:
- Articles of Association (Articles of Incorporation): This document specifies the company's name, purpose, registered office, share capital, ownership structure, management, and other relevant details. It defines the company's internal regulations and governance rules.
- Identification documents: You will need identification documents, such as passports or ID cards, for all founders/shareholders and appointed representatives of the company. These documents prove the identity of the people involved in the business.
- Proof of paid-in capital. For certain types of companies, such as LLCs, you may need to provide proof of paid-in capital. This may include bank statements or other financial documentation showing that the required minimum capital has been deposited into the company's bank account.
- Proof of name reservation: if you have reserved a specific company name in the Central Business Register (CBR), you may need to provide a confirmation or certificate of reservation as proof of name availability.
- Power of attorney: If you appoint a representative or attorney to carry out the registration process on your behalf, you may need to prepare a power of attorney document that gives them the authority to act on your behalf.
- Lease agreement or proof of ownership: you will need documentation confirming the company's legal address, such as a lease agreement or proof of ownership of the premises where the company will be located.
- Permits and licenses. Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to apply for special permits or licenses required for your industry. These may include permits for activities such as construction, tourism, hospitality, catering, or professional services.
While there may not be any special portals dedicated exclusively to starting a business in Montenegro for foreigners, there are several resources that provide valuable information and guidance:
Montenegrin business associations and chambers: Various business associations and chambers in Montenegro can provide advice and support to foreign entrepreneurs. Examples of such organizations are the Montenegrin Federation of Employers (www.poslodavci.org).
These portals and websites offer a wealth of information and resources that can help foreigners understand the legal, regulatory and investment landscape in Montenegro. They can provide guidance on procedures, regulations, incentives, and industry requirements, helping you navigate the process of starting a business in the country.
If you are planning a short-term business visit to Montenegro, you may need the following:
Check if you need a visa by clicking on the link.
- Valid passport: make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned stay in Montenegro.
- Letter of invitation: Obtain a letter of invitation from the Montenegrin company or organization you plan to visit. The letter should include the purpose of the visit, the duration of your stay, and the contact details of the inviting party.
- Business documentation: Bring any supporting business documentation that is relevant to your visit, such as letters of recommendation, proof of business activity, or meeting schedules.
- Proof of financial means: Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Montenegro. This may include bank statements, credit cards, or proof of sponsorship.
- Return ticket: present proof of a return or onward ticket indicating your intention to leave Montenegro at the end of your business visit.
- Travel insurance: It is advisable to have a valid travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and accidents during your stay in Montenegro.
Montenegrin labor law regulates the rights and obligations of both employers and employees in the country.
The Labor Law (2008) requires employees to:
- be at least 15 years old;
- be sufficiently healthy; and
- comply with the requirements necessary to perform the work established by the Labor Law and other regulations and the act on systematization.
The employment of persons under the age of 18 requires the written consent of their parents, adoptive parents or guardians. Such work should not pose a threat to their health, morals or education, and should not be prohibited by law. According to the Labor Code, employment of a person under 18 years of age is possible only if the competent healthcare authority confirms that the minor is able to perform the work and that the work is not harmful to his or her health.
Below is general information about the labor legislation in Montenegro:
Employment contracts: An employment contract is a legal agreement between an employer and an employee. It should contain basic details such as the job title, duties, working hours, salary, vacation rights, termination procedure, and other terms of employment. An employment agreement can be fixed-term or indefinite.
Working hours:The standard working week in Montenegro is 40 hours, with a maximum of eight hours per day. Overtime may be allowed, but is subject to special rules, including the payment of additional compensation or time off.
Minimum Wage: Montenegro has a minimum wage, which is periodically adjusted by the government. The minimum wage applies to all employees and is set to ensure a basic standard of living;
In the first quarter of 2024, the minimum wage in Montenegro remained unchanged at €532.5 per month.
Leave rights: Employees in Montenegro are entitled to various types of leave, including annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave, paternity leave and other special types of leave provided for by law;
Social security contributions: Both employers and employees are required to pay social security contributions in Montenegro. These contributions finance various social benefits, including health insurance, pension schemes and unemployment benefits. The specific rates and methods of calculating social security contributions are determined by law.
Health and safety: Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees. They must comply with health and safety regulations, conduct risk assessments, provide appropriate protective equipment, and enforce health and safety standards.
Termination of employment: Termination of employment may occur in various ways, such as at will, by agreement of the parties or by dismissal. The Montenegrin labor law provides for specific procedures and grounds for termination of employment, including notice periods, severance pay and protection against unfair dismissal.
For more information, follow the link
If you are a foreigner looking for employment opportunities in Montenegro, here are some tips to help you in your job search:
Study the labor market:Get to know the industries and sectors that are thriving in Montenegro. Identify the labor market demand, qualification requirements and any specific opportunities for foreigners;
Networking:In Montenegro, networking is crucial to finding employment opportunities. Attend professional events, conferences, and seminars related to your field of work. Communicate with professionals, join online communities and engage in conversations with locals to expand your network of contacts and increase your chances of finding a job.
Online job portals and websites: Use online portals and websites that specialize in finding jobs in Montenegro. Some popular portals include
www.zaposli.me
Check these platforms regularly for job openings and create profiles to showcase your skills and qualifications.
Company websites: Visit the websites of companies in Montenegro that match your career goals. Many companies post job vacancies on their websites or have a special "Career" section where you can submit your resume or application.
Recruitment Agencies: Consider using recruitment agencies or headhunters in Montenegro. These agencies can help you find a job that matches your skills and experience. They have established connections with employers and can help you navigate the labor market.
Professional associations and chambers of commerce:Research professional associations and chambers of commerce in Montenegro that are relevant to your field of work. These organizations often provide job listings and networking opportunities for their members.
Customize your resume and cover letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to the Montenegrin labor market. Emphasize your relevant skills, experience and qualifications. Emphasize any language skills or cultural understanding that may be useful for working in Montenegro.
Language skills: Although English is widely used in the business environment, knowledge of the local language, Montenegrin, can be beneficial. Consider attending language courses or studying the language on your own to improve your language skills, as this can improve your job prospects and integration into the local work environment.
Work permit and visa requirements: Make sure you have the necessary work permits or visas to work legally in Montenegro. Familiarize yourself with the requirements and procedures for obtaining the relevant documentation.
Montenegro