How to Register a Company in Montenegro — Step by Step Guide (2026)

Before registering, you must choose the right legal form for your business. Montenegro recognizes several types of business entities:

The DOO (LLC) is by far the most popular choice, accounting for over 90% of all new registrations. It requires just €1 in minimum capital and offers full liability protection for its founders.

Here is the complete process for registering a DOO (LLC) in Montenegro:

1. Reserve your company name — Submit a name reservation request to the Central Registry of Business Entities (CRPS). The name must be unique and not misleading. This typically takes 1-2 business days.
2. Prepare founding documents — Draft the founding act (for a single founder) or founding agreement (for multiple founders), along with the company statute. These documents must define the company's activities, share distribution, and management structure.
3. Notarize documents — All founding documents must be notarized by a licensed notary public in Montenegro. If founders are abroad, documents can be notarized at a Montenegrin embassy or consulate.
4. Open a temporary bank account — Deposit the initial capital (minimum €1 for DOO) into a temporary account at a Montenegrin bank. The bank will issue a confirmation of deposit.
5. Submit registration to CRPS — File the complete application with CRPS, including all notarized documents, deposit confirmation, and completed registration forms. CRPS processes applications within 4 business days.
6. Obtain a tax identification number (PIB) — CRPS automatically assigns a PIB upon registration. This serves as your tax ID for all interactions with the Tax Administration.
7. Register for VAT (if required) — If your projected annual turnover exceeds €30,000, you must register for VAT. Voluntary registration is also available for smaller businesses.
8. Open a permanent business bank account — Convert your temporary account to a permanent business account, or open a new one at any licensed bank.
9. Register employees with PIO Fund — Register your company and employees with the Pension and Disability Insurance Fund for social contributions.
10. Obtain necessary permits and licenses — Depending on your business activity, you may need additional permits (e.g., hospitality license, trade permit, construction approvals).

The following documents are typically required for company registration:

• Completed CRPS registration forms
• Founding act or founding agreement (notarized)
• Company statute
• Proof of identity for all founders (passport copies for foreigners)
• Proof of registered office address (lease agreement or ownership proof)
• Bank confirmation of capital deposit
• Decision appointing the director/executive
• Specimen signature of the director (notarized)
• Power of attorney (if registering through a representative)

Here is a breakdown of typical costs and timeframes:

Professional service fees for end-to-end registration assistance are additional and vary based on complexity. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Foreign investors enjoy equal treatment under Montenegrin law, with 100% foreign ownership permitted in most sectors. Key considerations include:

• No restrictions on profit repatriation — Foreign owners can freely transfer profits abroad without additional taxation.
• Double taxation treaties — Montenegro has signed DTAs with over 40 countries, reducing withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties.
• Residence and work permits — Foreign directors and employees need a combined residence-work permit, which we can arrange as part of the registration process.
• EU accession process — As an EU candidate country, Montenegro continues to harmonize its legal framework with EU standards, providing regulatory stability.
• Free trade agreements — CEFTA membership and various bilateral agreements provide preferential access to regional markets.

After your company is officially registered, several ongoing obligations must be met:

• Hire a licensed accountant — Montenegrin law requires all companies to maintain proper accounting records through a certified accounting professional or firm.
• Submit monthly/quarterly tax returns — Including VAT returns (if applicable), payroll tax declarations, and income tax prepayments.
• File annual financial statements — Due by March 31st of the following year, filed with the Tax Administration.
• Maintain a registered office — Your company must maintain a physical business address in Montenegro at all times.
• Keep corporate records updated — Any changes to directors, shareholders, or company address must be reported to CRPS within 15 days.

Having a reliable accounting partner from day one ensures you stay compliant and avoid penalties. Learn about our accounting services.