How and under what conditions to choose a company name in Montenegro?

Choosing a company name is one of the first and most important steps when establishing a business entity. In addition to representing your company’s identity on the market, the name must also comply with the law and the rules of the Central Register of Business Entities (CRPS).

Below is a guide to help you choose a company name correctly and efficiently.

WHAT DOES A COMPANY NAME REPRESENT?

A company name is the official name under which a business operates. It is used in all:

• official documents,
• correspondence,
• invoices,
• contracts.

The name is the fundamental marker of the identity of a business entity.

WHERE IS THE COMPANY NAME REGISTERED?

The company name is registered in the Central Register of Business Entities (CRPS). Any change of name must also be reported to the CRPS.

MANDATORY ELEMENTS OF A COMPANY NAME

According to the Montenegrin Law on Business Entities, the company name must include the legal form, depending on the type of business:

• DOO – Limited Liability Company,
• AD – Joint Stock Company,
• KD – Limited Partnership,
• OD – General Partnership,
• Entrepreneur – for sole proprietors.

USE OF NAMES AND SYMBOLS IN THE COMPANY NAME

A company name may include additional elements, but under special conditions:

• “Montenegro” – allowed,
• names of foreign states, international organizations, and their symbols – allowed with the consent of the competent authorities,
• a person’s name – may be included in the company name with the written consent of all persons bearing the same name and surname.

WHAT MUST NOT BE INCLUDED IN A COMPANY NAME?

The law prohibits the use of:

• offensive, indecent, or unlawful words,
• names identical or too similar to already registered companies (if this may cause confusion),
• transfer of a company name to another entity (except in the case of mergers).

ABBREVIATED COMPANY NAME

A company may also have an abbreviated name, but it must include:

• the legal form (e.g., DOO),
• part of the original name.

Branches of a company may not use an abbreviated name.

HOW TO CHECK IF A NAME IS AVAILABLE?

Before making a final decision, it is recommended to check the availability of the name on the official CRPS website: www.crps.me
The best practice is to additionally consult with an accountant or legal advisor in order to avoid potential complications during registration.