The Government of Montenegro voted on the parameters for its Residence and Citizenship by Investment Program. The country will start accepting applications starting in January 2019.

According to the World Bank, Montenegro is one of the fastest growing economies in the Balkans. It is quickly becoming a key destination for some of the most important industries around the world due to its strategic position.

As a young state, it offers a unique potential for investors seeking mobility, safety, security, opportunity, and increased quality of life. The program will last for three years, during which time a maximum of 2,000 applicants will be granted citizenship.

With the simplicity and optimality of the program, there has never been a better time to invest in Montenegro. At a starting investment of 350,000 euros, Montenegro’s program will prove to be one of the most competitive in Europe.

The investment requirements are as follows:

  • 100,000 euros in the form of a Government Fund Donation, and
  • 250,000 euros investment in approved real estate in an undeveloped region (north of the country), or
  • 450,000 euros investment in approved real estate in a developed region (south of the country).

Each applicant will also pay a government fee of 15,000 euros, with family members paying 10,000 euros each up to a maximum of four. Each next family member will pay 50,000 euros.

What makes the program even more attractive is the speed of its application process, which allows permanent residence status within 3 weeks, considering its thorough and stringent due diligent processes. Citizenship is then granted within a period of six months as permanent residents.

Montenegro has introduced strict criteria to qualify for citizenship:

  • No criminal record in Montenegro or any other state resulting in a prison sentence of more than one year
  • Positive result of an international due diligence assessment
  • Relevant investment in a program that contributes to the economic and business development of Montenegro, preferably in the tourism, processing or agricultural sectors
  • Proof of the origin of the fees to be paid

«Montenegro is a great country that has just got even more desirable from an investment perspective,» Armand Arton, Founder and President of Arton Capital, said.

Montenegro has one of the fastest-growing passports, currently ranked 37th in the world by The Passport Index, allowing citizens visa-free travel to 117 countries. Its ranking is expected to rise significantly with its upcoming accession into the European Union.