Business License Montenegro

You need a license in Montenegro if you are doing business in certain industries that are reguated. You will then, either need to obtain a license at the municipal or state level of administration. This business license (or Trade License) is a certificate that allows you to carry on a business activity for which it was issued. It does not give permission to do business in another field of the economy.

Through a business permit or license, a Montenegrin company demonstrates the ability to meet local standards of workplace safety, hygiene, and manufacturing quality. For example certain businesses such as those which involve the preparation and handling of food may require health permits. A federal license or permit may be required if your business is involved in an activity which is regulated by a ministry. Examples include the sale or manufacture of alcohol, commercial fishing, transportation and logistics, energy production. 

Example: Open a hostel

Let’s say you want to open a hostel in Montenegro. Tourism and hospitality activities are regulated by the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Tourism. In order to obtain a business permit, you need to fulfill a number of requirements such as having owned or rented property, full-time employment contract for your staff, proof of a minimum level of qualifications, and compliance with the minimum technical conditions concerning space, equipment and resources.

In addition to the compliance with the minimum technical conditions with regards to space, equipment and resources, the hostel must comply with regulations concerning food safety, occupational health and safety. 

Example 2: Start a Tourist Agency

In order to legally operate a tourist agency you need the following:

(1) Certificate of ownership or rental contract over a business premise

(2) Qualifications:

– employment contract and employment registration with the tax administration,
– proof on educational qualification
– knowledge of at least one foreign language at B1 level
– proof of work experience in the field of tourism (3 years as a tour organizer or 1 year as an agent)

(3) Security deposit:
– irrevocable bank guarantee of performance which is payable on first demand and without objection, or
– insurance policy, or
– 15,000 euros for a tour organizer and 7,000 euros for a tourist agency.

In addition to the compliance with the minimum technical conditions with regards to space, equipment and resources, the agency must comply with regulations concerning conditions for construction, general and particular hygiene conditions, occupational health and safety.

Example 3: Transport and Logistics company

In order to operate a transport and logistics company in Montenegro, you need to first register a business, and then obtain a license for (international) transport. The license issued by the Ministry of Transport and Maritime Affairs will be issued within one month from application, and is valid for five years. 

These are the requirements to get the license:

• permanent establishment on the territory of Montenegro
• clean criminal record
• sufficient financial means: 9,000€ for the first vehicle, and 5,000€ for each subsequent
• professional competence (driving license) of your drivers
• in possession of vehicles, or leased vehicles
• valid insurance policies