According to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Montenegro from June this year, Montenegro is home to 95,000 foreign nationals with temporary, permanent, or protected status. We investigated their reasons for relocating to this country and identified the top seven. You can read about them below.
1. Affordable luxury real estate
Montenegro offers numerous investment opportunities with exceptionally favorable conditions. From luxury seaside villas to affordable inland properties, Montenegro provides a range of options for profitable investments. The stable rise in real estate prices in recent years has encouraged many foreigners to invest, with some recognizing the potential for rental income. However, many choose to stay and enjoy the charms of Montenegro, leading us to the next reason.
2. High safety and low living costs
Montenegro stands out as one of the safer countries in Europe, with a relatively low crime rate. According to 2024 data from numbeo.com, France ranks highest for crime in Europe, followed by Belarus, Belgium, and Sweden, while Serbia and Montenegro are in 18th and 19th place respectively. Additionally, Montenegro offers lower living costs compared to other popular European destinations. As of August 2024, fuel prices in Montenegro are 32 dinars lower than in Serbia, placing Montenegro 23rd in Europe for fuel prices.
When it comes to essential goods, Montenegro has a price index of 36.3, well below the EU average for items like milk, bread, meat, and vegetables. Compared to other popular summer destinations, food prices in Montenegro are significantly lower than in Croatia (42.6), Portugal (42.9) and Greece (47.9).
3. Digital nomad haven
Montenegro has become an attractive destination for digital nomads due to its favorable tax policies. The basic income tax rate is just 9% for earnings up to 1,000 EUR per month, with a progressive rate of 15% for higher incomes. Corporate tax rates range from 9% to 15%, which is lower compared to many European countries. Digital nomads earning foreign income may also be exempt from tax on such earnings, provided they do not exceed certain thresholds.
4. Quality healthcare system
Montenegro has significantly improved its healthcare system in recent years, both in the public and private sectors. Private clinics now offer high standards of service with state-of-the-art medical equipment and treatment methods. Continuous investment in modernizing healthcare facilities, including hospital renovations and advanced diagnostic technologies, has enhanced the quality of healthcare in the country.
5. Good connectivity with Europe
Montenegro has become more accessible to travelers from the region and Europe. Road improvements, particularly in coastal areas, have made travel easier and more enjoyable. Travelers from Belgrade to Montenegro’s coast would be pleasantly surprised by the quality of infrastructure and travel speed. Additionally, Montenegro offers excellent flight connections to Europe from the airports in Tivat and Podgorica. Many foreigners choose Montenegro as a starting point for exploring the Balkans and Europe due to the ease of travel by air and car.
6. Natural beauty and diverse activities
Montenegro boasts incredible natural beauty, making it a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts. From crystal-clear beaches to majestic mountain ranges, Montenegro offers something for everyone. It is home to some of the cleanest beaches in the Adriatic, like Žanjice Beach on the Luštica Peninsula, known for its pristine cleanliness and Blue Flag certification. In Montenegro, it is not unusual to swim in the warm Adriatic waters and then hike up the highest peak of Durmitor, Bobotov Kuk, at 2,523 meters in one day. Winter sports lovers can enjoy skiing at various ski resorts, such as Bjelasica, Durmitor, Hajla, or Vučje.
7. Rich cultural heritage and history
Montenegro features four UNESCO World Heritage sites: the cultural and historical region of Kotor, medieval stećci tombstones, Venetian fortifications from the 16th and 17th centuries and Durmitor National Park. In addition to these landmarks, foreigners are attracted to Montenegro’s vibrant cultural scene, which continues to develop and cater to diverse tastes. Events like the Kotor Carnival and Mimosa Festival in Herceg Novi, along with performances by regional and global stars and festivals of jazz, classical, and rock music, further enhance the country’s cultural appeal.
With all these reasons, it’s no wonder Montenegro is nominated as a top European destination.
