According to Montenegro’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, more than 100,000 foreigners currently hold legal residence in the country. This includes 27,457 with temporary residence permits, 43,716 with temporary residence and work permits, and 29,614 with permanent residence. Temporary residence permits can lapse if the holder stays outside Montenegro for over 30 days, with exceptions up to 90 days if properly notified.
Citizens of Turkey and the UAE can enter Montenegro visa-free for up to 90 days. This year, UAE residents with at least three years of residence permits can stay up to 10 days without a visa, provided they have a tourist arrangement. Nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Syria, and Somalia must obtain visas regardless of status in the UAE; Indian citizens specifically require a visa.
Montenegro’s Statistical Office (Monstat) clarifies that Ministry records reflect administrative status, not actual population. Census data are necessary to provide an accurate demographic picture, with annual population estimates updated after each census.
Thus, while foreign residents are numerous, only census results can reveal the true demographic composition of Montenegro.
