Work authorisation
Permit for temporary residence and work (covers employment and seasonal employment). Issued by the Ministry of the Interior. Permits for employment fall under an annual quota set by the Government by 30 November for the next year.
As a rule the worker applies in person to the Ministry of the Interior where they live, on the official form. By exception the employer can apply, at the worker's planned place of stay, the employer's seat or the place of work. The employer gives a written job offer.
How you enter the country
A D visa (long stay, over 90 days and up to 6 months in a year) can be issued for employment and work. Visa applications go to a Montenegrin embassy or consulate. The gov.me employment page says a person who got a D visa for employment must apply for the residence and work permit within 10 days of the visa being issued. For the permit, the Ministry takes a photo, fingerprints of two fingers and a digital signature.
Processing times
Official pages differ. The e-Government service page says 15 days. The gov.me employment page says a decision within 20 days of a complete application.
Documents you usually provide
- Valid passport, valid at least 3 months beyond the permit period
- Written job offer from the employer for a specific post
- Proof of education and qualifications
- Proof of good health
- Proof of means of subsistence
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Criminal record from the country of origin (no prison sentence over 6 months)
- For the D visa: colour photo, proof of purpose, accommodation, funds, return travel, health insurance, proof the consular fee was paid
After arrival
A foreigner not staying with an accommodation provider must register their stay with the police or local tourist organisation within 24 hours of arrival. Hotels and other providers register guests within 12 hours. Within 8 days of the permit being issued, the employer must sign the employment contract and register the worker for compulsory social insurance. Employment permits last 1 year and can be extended (up to 2 years in total). Seasonal permits last up to 6 months in a year. Extensions are filed at least 30 days before expiry.
How Worrki helps
We confirm the job with the employer, coordinate the employer documents and check your package before you apply. You submit the application yourself and the authorities make the decision. See jobs and conditions in Montenegro.
This summary was checked against the official pages listed below on 2 November 2026. Fees are set by the authorities and change often, so we do not quote them here. Always confirm the current requirements and fees with the consulate that serves your country of residence.