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Montenegro legislative alignment with EU standards

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-05 08:32 UTC → 2026-09-08 09:43 UTC · added removed

Montenegro is undergoing a series of legislative updates aimed at aligning national regulations with European Union standards. In late August 2026, the government approved amendments to the Law on Waste Management to promote a circular economy and implement the ‘polluter pays’ principle. This was followed by the entry into force of a new Law on Weapons and Ammunition, which implements EU Directive 2021/555 to regulate the acquisition, possession, and transport of firearms. By early September 2026, legislative efforts expanded to include the employment and residency of foreign nationals. New measures include nationals through the new Law on the Employment and Self-Employment of Foreigners. While the Ministry of Internal Affairs will continue issuing unified temporary residence and work permits, a new requirement for mandates obtaining prior consent from the Employment Agency for work permits of Montenegro. The Ministry of Labour, Employment and updated rules Social Dialogue maintains this is necessary to prevent illegal migration and labor, though the Employers' Union has expressed concerns that the step could create “business barriers and slow down hiring processes.” Additionally, amendments to the Law on Foreigners aim to combat labor exploitation by providing introducing the concept of a ‘victim of illegal employment.’ This provides legal protections and potential temporary residency for victims of illegal employment. foreign nationals—including minors or adults working in exploitative conditions—who cooperate with authorities. Employers found hiring undocumented workers face fines between 1,000 and 10,000 euros and potential business bans.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-08 09:43 UTC Montenegro legislative alignment with EU standards
  2. 2026-09-05 08:32 UTC Montenegro legislative alignment with EU standards

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