Living in Montenegro as an Expat: Montenegro Expat Guide

If you are considering living in Montenegro as an expat, there are many questions that need answering, starting with which location to choose as your base and the conditions you will need to fulfil in order to relocate to this beautiful country of sea and mountains.

Relocating to another country gives you a chance to start afresh and rebuild your life, and living in a beautiful Mediterranean country like Montenegro can be ideal for a life full of harmony and great adventure.

For a smooth start, it’s helpful to have a reliable guide. That’s why we created this useful Montenegro expat guide. Here, you’ll find information, and tips, and tricks for living in Montenegro as an expat, including the cost of living in different cities and the the pros and cons of expat life in Montenegro.

Save the precious time you’d spend searching for answers on forums by reading our practical guide to expat life in Montenegro!

If you’re moving to Montenegro from the UK, the US, or any other country for that matter, you may have difficulties choosing among all the amazing places Montenegro has to offer. In that case, a good old pros and cons list can help you make your decision and identify all the conditions you’ll have to consider while living in Montenegro as an expat.

Here’s the “living in Montenegro pros and cons” list!

1. Accessible Montenegrin Citizenship – Montenegro has a clearly defined process for those seeking citizenship, as well as temporary residence permits, making it a practical option for relocation.
2. Affordable cost of living – Compared to EU countries, Montenegro has an attractive low cost of living and affordable utilities. Whether you are choosing to retire in Montenegro and are looking for a peaceful place to settle or a digital nomad wanting to balance work and lifestyle, Montenegro provides an affordable alternative to many European destinations.
3. Easy to Find Housing as an Expat – Montenegro offers a broad range of housing options, from modern apartments in urban areas to traditional stone houses in rural or coastal regions. Tivat, Kotor, and Budva are among the most popular towns for expats, thanks to their vibrant communities, proximity to the sea, and growing infrastructure. Real estate investment opportunities in Montenegro are almost limitless, providing choices to suit everyone`s taste.
4. Good healthcare options – Healthcare is an important aspect of life for expats in Montenegro, with both public and private options available. The public Montenegro healthcare system is accessible to residents, though many expats in Montenegro prefer private healthcare for faster service and more specialized treatment. English-speaking doctors are readily available, particularly in major towns such as Podgorica, Budva, and Tivat.
5. Low Taxes – Considering the standard of living, Montenegro has surprisingly low taxes with straightforward rates. Montenegro boasts one of the lowest income tax rates in Europe, at a flat rate of just 9%, making it especially appealing for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. 
6. Quality Education for Expats in Montenegro – For expat families moving to Montenegro, education is a key consideration. Although the local education system may differ from what expats are accustomed to, there are several international schools, especially in major cities and coastal areas, catering to foreign students. Knightsbridge International School in Tivat and the QSI International School of Montenegro in Podgorica offer English-language education following international curricula, which are popular among expat families. These schools provide a high standard of education, though tuition fees can be quite high. On the other hand, local public schools are free but are taught in Montenegrin, which could be a barrier for non-native speakers.
7. A Country with Beautiful Nature – Montenegro`s rich natural landscape, combining both seaside and mountains is a rare for a country of its size. From the rugged peaks of the Dinaric Alps to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Expats living in Montenegro have easy access to these natural wonders, making it ideal for those who enjoy hiking, cycling, sailing, or simply spending time outdoors. 
8. Something for Everyone – Whether you are seeking adventure, luxury boat sailing, hiking, dining in fine restaurants, or just enjoying a drink at a beach bar – Montenegro has it all.

Wondering where the best place to live in Montenegro might be? It’s no surprise that there isn’t a single answer to this question.

As an expat, the first step in deciding where to live in Montenegro is to compare the various cities. Start by exploring real estate options for purchase and apartments for rent in Montenegro, as well as schools and kindergartens, the cost of living, and job opportunities, especially if you’re not relocating for work.

If you’re considering life as an expat, Montenegro has much to offer. Here’s a brief introduction to the Montenegrin cities that are popular among Montenegro expats.

With one of the most unique and well-preserved old towns, Kotor has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. From a tourism perspective, it is one of the most popular places to visit and is also a favoured living destination for many expats looking to settle in Montenegro.

If you’re considering living here, be prepared for a bustling atmosphere with many tourists and events during the summer season. Like any popular tourist spot, Kotor can also be an excellent place to start and grow a business. For nightlife, there are a few clubs available throughout the year.

Podgorica is the capital of our beautiful country and has a well-established expat community. Living in Podgorica gives you the opportunity to work, study, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle, and most people find it easy to settle in.

The city is quite modern, with an urban centre and City Square, which serves as a hub for companies, restaurants, bars, and retail shops. There’s also a quieter, more residential part of the city, ideal for families. Unlike other capitals, Podgorica is not frenetic, and the traffic is relatively manageable.

Geographically speaking, Podgorica is a convenient base for those seeking easy access to travel. It offers routes in all directions, providing direct access to both the coast and the mountains. 

As a city of contrast, Budva combines a bustling modern city centre with a rustic and historic old town, making it an appealing choice for various groups of expats in Montenegro.

Budva is a charming city, known for its nightclubs, modern beach bars, and lively restaurants that are especially popular during the summer season.

Over the years, Budva has become one of the most prominent commercial centres in the country, primarily due to its thriving tourism industry. Choosing Budva as the place of their new home in Montenegro can be ideal for those seeking excitement, vibrant nightlife, job opportunities, or even potential for business development.

For those looking for a quieter environment while staying connected to urban life, the suburbs of Budva – areas like Bečići, Rafailovići, or Sveti Stefan – are worth exploring.

When it comes to safety, Montenegro is generally considered a very safe place for both locals and expats alike. The country has a low crime rate, and is regarded as a secure destination for living and visiting.

Montenegro maintains a strong police presence, contributing to a safe environment. Expats often report feeling comfortable and secure, even when walking at night. As in any country, a standard level of caution is recommended, particularly in busy areas.

Healthcare facilities and emergency services are readily accessible, especially in urban areas, which further enhances the sense of safety and security for expats. As mentioned previously, in case of medical emergencies, expats have access to both public and private healthcare.

Overall, Montenegro offers a peaceful and safe environment, making it an ideal destination for expats seeking a secure and serene place to live.

There are a lot of EU and US expats living in Montenegro, but given all of the above, it is no wonder many of them choose Montenegro for retirement, studying and working! Whether relocating with your family or moving alone as a digital nomad, Montenegro has everything you need to feel at home.

The quality of life in Montenegro can be very high. As we previously mentioned, Porto Montenegro has introduced a new standard of living, offering a life less ordinary. This shift has elevated not only Tivat but the whole country, with many seaside towns following Porto Montenegro’s example and raising their living standards.

For those looking to relocate to Porto Montenegro, being part of this luxurious community brings numerous advantages – high social status, as well as ample business and lifestyle opportunities for the entire family. Undoubtedly, Porto Montenegro is one of the best places to live in Montenegro.