Becoming a Resident of Monaco
Moving to Monaco is the fulfillment of a dream for a life of safety, comfort, and attractive tax benefits.
Obtaining a Monaco Residency Card (Carte de Séjour) is a straightforward, step-by-step process. This special status, granted by the Direction de la Sûreté Publique (Public Security), follows strict rules to preserve the Principality’s quality of life and stability.
Whether you are an individual, a couple, a family, or a retiree, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make Monaco your new home.
Step By Step Instructions
Who Can Become a Resident?
Anyone aged 16 or older who wants to live in Monaco for more than three months a year must apply for a Residence Permit. The process depends on your nationality:
- EEA Nationals (European Economic Area): You can start the process locally with a valid passport or identity card.
- Non-EEA Nationals (UK, USA, Russia, Middle East, etc.): You must first obtain a Long-Stay Visa (Type D) for Monaco from the French Consulate in your country before arrival. Without this visa, your residency application will be refused.
To become a resident, you must meet three key requirements:
1/Accommodation: Size Criteria and Suitability
Housing is the first key step in getting residency. You need a home in Monaco that fits your household, and you must have proof of this before you can apply for residency. The authorities take this seriously:
- A couple can live in a large studio or one-bedroom apartment.
- A family with children needs a bigger place, usually 2–3 bedrooms depending on the number of children.
You can prove your housing in one of three ways:
- Buy a property (provide the title deed).
- Rent an apartment (with a registered lease of at least one year).
- Stay with a relative who already lives in Monaco.
2/Good Conduct
You must have a clean record and demonstrate good conduct. The authorities check that you are trustworthy and of sound moral character.
You must have a clean criminal record for the past five years. This means you need a thorough criminal background check from your country of residence—not just a basic certificate. The authorities check this carefully to ensure you are trustworthy and of good character.
3/Finance
Financial Resources
To become a resident of Monaco, you must show that you can support yourself (and your family, if applicable) without relying on public assistance. There are two main ways to meet this requirement:
A. Self-Sufficient Applicants (Savings / Without a Job)
If you are moving independently and not working in Monaco, you need to prove you have sufficient savings. This includes:
- Opening a bank account in Monaco. The bank will review your profile (compliance check) and issue a Bank Attestation confirming you have enough resources.
- While there is no official legal minimum, banks in Monaco usually expect a deposit of €500,000 per main applicant.
- For recommendations please contact us The bank will hold this deposit in your account for the duration of your time in Monaco. The deposit amount may actually change dependant on the bank in question, as some set a higher level of deposit. The bank will then provide you with a proof of deposit which you will need to submit to the Department of the Interior.
B. Sponsored by a Job
If you are coming to Monaco with a job offer, your employer can act as your financial sponsor. You must provide:
- An employment contract or official letter of sponsorship
- Proof of sufficient salary to support yourself and any family members
The authorities review your financial situation carefully to ensure you can live in Monaco comfortably without public support.
Next Steps: From Interview to Residence Card
Once you have secured your accommodation and opened a Monegasque bank account, you can submit your residency application to the Residents’ Section. An interview will follow to confirm your intentions and motivations for moving to Monaco.
The Different Types of Residency Cards
Monaco residency is granted progressively over time:
- Temporary Card (Temporaire): For new arrivals. Valid for 1 year and renewable up to 3 times.
- Ordinary Card (Ordinaire): Available after 3 years of residence. Valid for 3 years and renewable.
- Privileged Card (Privilégié): The ultimate resident status. Available after 10 years of continuous residence. Valid for 10 years and reflects a strong connection to Monaco.
- Spouse of a Monegasque (Conjoint de Monégasque) Card: Issued to spouses of Monegasque nationals. Valid for 5 years.
Important: To maintain your residency card, you must live in Monaco for at least 183 days a year. Authorities may check utility usage, such as electricity and water, to verify this.
If you require assistance or advice on obtaining residency, as each case is assessed on an individual basis, please let us know and we can introduce you to an expert who can provide guidance.
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✉️ Email: [email protected]
Timescale
On average, applicants are invited to a formal interview within three to five weeks of submitting a residency application; however, this timeframe may be longer depending on your individual circumstances. During the interview, you will be required to present the aforementioned documents, as well as your birth certificate. You will also be asked about your previous work experience and your family situation. For further information or case-specific guidance.
Following the interview stage, there may be a delay of approximately nine to twelve weeks before your residency application is approved.
You may wish to engage a consultancy service to assist you throughout the residency process. If so, please contact us for recommendations.
