Thinking of Starting a Business in Montenegro? Here’s How

Montenegro is fast becoming one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs and investors. With its business-friendly environment, low taxes, and access to both EU markets and Balkan trade routes, it offers a unique opportunity for those looking to establish a company in a strategic, cost-effective location.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up a business in Montenegro as a foreign investor – and how Evkowski Company can help you every step of the way.


Why Montenegro?

Before diving into the legal process, let’s look at why Montenegro is such an appealing place to do business:

  • Low corporate tax (9%) – one of the lowest in Europe
  • Favorable legal framework for foreign-owned businesses
  • Access to international markets – EU candidateship, Adriatic coast, proximity to Italy, Serbia, and Croatia
  • Simple and affordable company setup process
  • Skilled local workforce and growing expat community
  • No restrictions on foreign ownership in most sectors

Whether you’re planning to launch a real estate company, hospitality venture, tech startup or service business – Montenegro is open for international business.


Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Company in Montenegro

1. Choose a Business Structure

The most common structure for foreign investors is a D.O.O. (Drustvo sa Ogranicenom Odgovornoscu) – the Montenegrin equivalent of a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
It can be founded by one or more foreign individuals or legal entities.

2. Select and Register a Company Name

You’ll need a unique business name, which must be approved and reserved via the Central Register of Business Entities (CRPS).

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

This includes:

  • Articles of Association
  • Founders' passports
  • Proof of registered address in Montenegro
  • Bank confirmation of initial capital deposit (typically €1 or more)

4. Open a Business Bank Account

You’ll need to open an account with a Montenegrin bank to deposit your initial capital and conduct business transactions.

5. Register the Company

You submit your documents to the Tax Administration Office, Statistics Office, and Pension and Health Insurance Fund. You’ll then receive:

  • A company registration number
  • A tax identification number (PIB)
  • VAT registration (if applicable)

6. Obtain Licenses and Permits (if needed)

Depending on your business sector (hospitality, construction, financial services), you may need additional operational licenses.


Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

The full company setup process usually takes 7–15 working days – and even faster if done with local assistance from a professional partner like Evkowski Company.


Can Foreigners Own 100% of a Business in Montenegro?

Yes. Montenegro allows 100% foreign ownership of a Montenegrin company. There are no citizenship or residency requirements to become a business owner – although certain industries (e.g. arms trade or critical infrastructure) may have restrictions.


Do You Need a Local Partner or Director?

No, it is not required. As a foreigner, you can fully own and manage your business. However, if you prefer a representative on the ground, Evkowski Company can assist with trusted local partnerships and corporate services.


Benefits of Registering a Company in Montenegro

  • Access to local and EU-preparatory grants and subsidies
  • Opportunity to apply for temporary residency through company ownership
  • Flexible tax system and low bureaucracy
  • Safe and stable banking sector (with EUR as currency)
  • Favorable double taxation treaties


How Evkowski Company Can Help

Setting up a company abroad comes with legal, cultural, and logistical challenges – but with Evkowski Company, you don’t have to face them alone. Read here why.

We assist foreign investors with:

  • Company formation and legal documentation
  • Office rental or virtual business address
  • Bank account opening
  • Accounting, payroll and tax compliance
  • Residency applications
  • Real estate sourcing for offices or staff housing
  • Business networking and market entry strategy

We work with investors from all over the world who want to do business in Montenegro with confidence – and we’d be proud to assist you too.


Ready to Get Started?

If you're considering launching your business in Montenegro, now is the time to act. The country offers a rare combination of opportunity, affordability, and long-term growth potential.

Contact Evkowski Company today to book a free consultation and learn how we can help you start your venture in one of Europe’s most dynamic markets.