Montenegro is preparing new regulations for foreign workers that will change the process for obtaining work and residence permits in the country.
The planned changes include the introduction of a single permit system that would combine temporary residence and work authorization into one document. The goal is to simplify procedures while improving control over employment conditions, tax payments and employers who hire foreign workers.
Under the new system, applications would continue to be handled by Montenegro’s Ministry of Interior, but approval would require confirmation from the Employment Agency of Montenegro. This would allow authorities to better monitor labor market needs and ensure that foreign workers are hired according to official requirements.
The changes come as Montenegro continues to rely heavily on foreign labor, especially in sectors such as tourism, construction, hospitality and services. For 2026, the government approved a quota of nearly 29,000 temporary residence and work permits for foreign citizens, with the largest number allocated to accommodation and food services, construction and other service activities.
Officials say the new approach is also part of Montenegro’s efforts to align its regulations with European Union standards while creating a more organized system for managing foreign employment.
The reforms are expected to affect thousands of foreign workers who come to Montenegro every year, particularly during the summer tourism season when demand for additional labor increases significantly.
