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Company registration in Montenegro
Establish a European-level company with low taxation
- 100% foreign ownership
- Progressive tax system
- Residence permit for the director and their family
- Duty-free imports in the free zone
Submit a request and get a consultation with a corporate law specialist
About the program
Opening a company in Montenegro is a strategic decision for tax optimization and entry into European markets. Foreign investors can establish an LLC (DOO) with a minimum capital of EUR 1, joint-stock companies (AD) with EUR 25,000 capital, or branches of international corporations.
The progressive tax scale offers a 9% rate for profits up to EUR 100,000, making the jurisdiction attractive for small and medium-sized businesses. Around 50 double taxation treaties, covering key European and Asian markets, allow for significant reduction of the tax burden.
- Dividend, profit, and capital gains tax: 15%
- Corporate tax: from 9%
- Company registration time: from 2 weeks
- Office requirements: virtual or physical office
- Currency restrictions: none
Types of companies and key features
Setting up a company in Montenegro is advantageous for gaining access to European markets with low entry barriers and favorable taxation.
LLC (DOO — Društvo s ograničenom odgovornošću)
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The most common legal entity, requiring at least one founder and EUR 1 in share capital. Ideal for startups and small to medium-sized businesses.
- 100% foreign ownership
Full ownership without a local partner for all types of activities.
- Minimal requirements
EUR 1 share capital, up to 30 participants.
- Tax optimization
Progressive tax rate starting at 9% for profits up to EUR 100,000.
- Fast registration
Processing from 14 days via the Central Registry.
Joint-Stock Company (AD — Akcionarsko društvo)
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A structure for large businesses with a minimum capital of EUR 25,000. Suitable for attracting investment and public share issuance.
- Flexible capital structure
Ability to issue different classes of shares.
- Investment attraction
Simplified mechanism for bringing in new investors.
- International recognition
Complies with European corporate standards.
- Tax benefits
Same favorable rates as LLCs.
Branch of a Foreign Company
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A representation of an international corporation without forming a separate legal entity. Optimal for market testing.
- Minimal capital requirements
No share capital required.
- Unified management
Controlled by the parent company.
- Tax treaties
Access to international agreement benefits.
- Minimal formalities
No annual reporting required.
Company in a Free Economic Zone
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Port Bar is the only free zone offering full exemption from customs duties and VAT. Ideal for import-export operations.
- Zero duties
Import without customs fees or VAT.
- Unlimited storage
Duty-free regime with no time limits.
- Simplified procedures
Minimal bureaucracy for zone residents.
- Preferential taxation
Reduced corporate tax rates.
How to choose a location and corporate structure for a business in Montenegro
- Which business structure in Montenegro is right for you
- Documents required to start a company in Montenegro
- Updated business registration rules in 2025
How to choose a location and corporate structure for a business in Montenegro
Business and personal interests support in Montenegro
Legal consulting
The Mirsatori legal team provides comprehensive legal services for business activities under national law, covering labor relations, contract law, and commercial operations.
Learn moreCorporate administration
The team of Mirsatori develops corporate governance systems, oversees business restructuring, and ensures compliance with documentation requirements in line with regulatory standards.
Learn moreFinancial accounting
The specialists of Mirsatori organize comprehensive financial reporting in accordance with national standards, prepare documents for audit reviews, and monitor compliance with accounting regulations.
Learn moreTax consulting
The Mirsatori corporate lawyers develop tax planning strategies based on current regulations, minimize fiscal burdens, and manage the submission of all mandatory declarations.
Learn moreBanking services
The specialists of Mirsatori coordinate the establishment of banking products for legal entities with reputable financial institutions, ensuring compliance with regulatory and compliance standards.
Learn moreCompany formation
The Mirsatori team carries out the incorporation of commercial entities, selecting the appropriate legal form and business structure with regard to legislative requirements and fiscal incentives.
Learn moreStep-by-step process to company registration
Step-by-step process to company registration
Andris Kaushelis
General Manager
Consultation and choice of optimal structure
The Mirsatori corporate lawyers analyze your business model, determine the most suitable ownership form and place of incorporation, taking into account tax planning and residence permit options.
Request a consultationName reservation and preparation of incorporation documents
The specialists of Mirsatori check the availability of the company name through the Central Registry of Business Entities (CRBE), draft the articles of association, and prepare the full registration package.
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Fast-track registration with government authorities
With the support of Mirsatori’s lawyers, documents are submitted to the Central Registry, a registration certificate and tax number are obtained, and a virtual office is arranged in parallel.
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Opening a corporate account and depositing share capital
The account can be opened with one of the leading financial institutions: Erste Bank, CKB Bank, NLB Bank, or the Digital Solutions Bank. The specialists of Mirsatori coordinate the deposit of the minimum share capital and issuance of the bank certificate.
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Residence permit for the director and family relocation
The Mirsatori team arranges a work permit for the director and applies for a one-year temporary residence permit with the right to extension. A spouse and children may be included in the application.
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A Montenegrin company as your gateway to European markets
Starting a business in Montenegro provides a strategic foothold for entering European markets and integrating with international financial networks. By registering a company, you secure:
- A residence permit for the director and family members
- Tax optimization with progressive rates of 9–15 percent
- A tool for international asset structuring
Submit a request and get a consultation with a corporate law specialist
Service packages and costs
Basic
EUR 2,000
Suitable for:
- IT freelancers and consultants
- Early-stage startups
- Exploring the European market
Includes:
- Company registration
- Corporate seal
- Preparation of documents for a residence permit (including government fees)
- Diploma authentication
- Medical examination
- Health insurance policy
- Apostille of the police clearance certificate
- Tourist tax (EUR 1/day)
- Temporary registration for 12 months
- Assistance with opening a personal bank account
- Assistance with opening a corporate bank account
- Guidance on accounting services
Standard
EUR 4,000
Suitable for:
- Married couples with children
- Medium-sized businesses with turnover up to EUR 500,000
- Relocation of the entire family to Europe
Includes:
- Company registration
- Corporate seal
- Preparation of documents for a residence permit (including government fees)
- Diploma authentication
- Medical examination
- Health insurance policy
- Apostille of the police clearance certificate
- Tourist tax (EUR 1/day)
- Temporary registration for 12 months
- Assistance with opening a personal bank account
- Assistance with opening a corporate bank account
- Guidance on accounting services
- Provision of an official company address
- Residence permit for a spouse or child
Premium
EUR 5,500
Suitable for:
- Large businesses and holdings
- Complex international structures
- Maximum legal protection
Includes:
- Company registration
- Corporate seal
- Preparation of documents for a residence permit (including government fees)
- Diploma authentication
- Medical examination
- Health insurance policy
- Apostille of the police clearance certificate
- Tourist tax (EUR 1/day)
- Temporary registration for 12 months
- Assistance with opening a personal bank account
- Assistance with opening a corporate bank account
- Guidance on accounting services
- Provision of an official company address
- Residence permit for a spouse or child
- Full legal support for the first year
- Advice on tax planning
Get a personalized strategy for entering the Montenegrin market
A Mirsatori specialist will prepare a tailored company registration plan based on your goals, business size, and ownership type. The strategy will include:
- Selection of the optimal business structure
- Capital requirements and permitted business activities
- Timeline and costs at each stage
- Opportunities for obtaining residency
Get a personalized strategy for entering the Montenegrin market
Advantages of registering a company in Montenegro
European integration without EU membership
EU candidate status ensures compliance with European business standards while maintaining tax autonomy and simplified procedures.
Progressive taxation for growth
A starting rate of 9 percent on profits up to EUR 100,000 allows young companies to reinvest most of their income into business development.
Instant business immigration
The company director and their family receive a one-year residence permit, with eligibility for permanent residence after five years and citizenship after ten years of residence.
Global tax network
Fifty double taxation agreements provide opportunities for tax optimization when operating in key international markets.
Minimal entry threshold
A share capital of just EUR 1 for an LLC makes Montenegro one of the most accessible European jurisdictions for starting an international business.
Protection of financial data
International agreements with the US and EU ensure the confidentiality of personal financial information and eliminate the risk of forced disclosure to third countries.
Free economic zone
Port Bar offers full exemption from customs duties and VAT, along with access to simplified procedures for import and export operations.
Strategic location
Situated on the Adriatic coast, Montenegro provides access to EU markets, the Balkans, and Gulf countries through its well-developed port infrastructure.
Company registration: comparative analysis
Category
Montenegro
The UAE
Hungary
France
Minimum share capital
EUR 1
USD 0
EUR 7,700
EUR 1
VAT
21%
5%
27%
from 5%
100% foreign ownership
yes
yes
yes
yes
Audit
yes
yes
yes
yes
Corporate tax
9%
from 0%
9%
from 15%
Personal income tax
from 9%
0%
15%
from 0%
Dividend tax
15%
0%
28%
30%
Double taxation treaties
50
130+
80+
110+
Currency control
yes
no
no
no
Company registration: alternative programs
Country
Cost
Processing time
Benefits
The UAE
Cost
from USD 10,000
Processing time
from 1 week
Benefits
Learn more
- Tax optimization and access to new markets
- Residency for family members
- Full business ownership in a free zone
Hungary
Cost
from EUR 8,000
Processing time
from 1 month
Benefits
Learn more
- No double taxation with 86 countries
- Right to live anywhere in the European Union
- Residency for family members
France
Cost
from EUR 20,000
Processing time
from 1 week
Benefits
Learn more
- Access to the European Union market
- Protection of intellectual property rights
- Eligibility for residency
FAQ
What is the minimum capital required to start a company in Montenegro?
For an LLC (DOO), only EUR 1 is required, while a joint-stock company (AD) requires EUR 25,000. This makes Montenegro one of the most accessible jurisdictions in Europe.
Can a company be registered remotely without visiting the country?
Registration can be done through a trusted representative, but a personal visit is required to obtain a residence permit, submit documents, and complete biometric procedures.
What taxes do companies pay in Montenegro in 2025?
Progressive corporate tax: 9% on profits up to EUR 100,000, 12% from EUR 100,001 to EUR 1,500,000, and 15% above EUR 1,500,000. VAT is 21%, and dividends are taxed at 15%.
Does company registration grant the right to a residence permit?
Yes. A shareholder holding 51% of the company and serving as director receives a one-year residence permit, with the option to include a spouse and children in the application.
Is it mandatory to conduct active business after registration?
No turnover or job creation is required, but the director must receive a minimum salary and file regular reporting.
What benefits does a free economic zone offer?
Port Bar provides exemptions from customs duties and VAT, unlimited goods storage, and simplified import-export procedures.
Which banks work with foreign companies?
Erste Bank, CKB Bank, and NLB Bank for traditional banking, and Revolut Business for digital solutions. The choice depends on the type of business.
Can a Montenegrin company work with cryptocurrencies?
Yes. Montenegro does not prohibit crypto activities. Income from cryptocurrency trading is subject to corporate tax as regular business income. Compliance with reporting and banking audit procedures is required.
Get expert guidance on your case
Schedule a meeting with our specialists, in-office or online, and receive a tailored case analysis, a clear cost estimate, and the best solution to achieve your goals.
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