How Citizens of Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine can nostrifify their diplomas in Montenegro?

From June 1, 2024, new rules apply in Montenegro for diploma recognition (nostrification) for citizens of Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. If you wish to obtain a residence permit or employment, diploma recognition is a mandatory step.

This text provides a practical guide – from the required documentation and procedure to tips that will make the process easier.

WHY IS NOSTRIFICATION IMPORTANT?

The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) requires proof of education when you apply for a residence permit. This proof can be:

• A recognized (nostrified) diploma – confirmation that your diploma is officially recognized in Montenegro.
• Proof of the initiated nostrification process – sufficient to submit your application, even if the diploma has not yet been recognized.

In other words, you don’t need to wait for the procedure to be completed – it’s enough to show that you have started it.

ARCHIVAL CERTIFICATE – A KEY DOCUMENT

According to the new rules, in order for a diploma to be recognized, you must provide the Ministry of Education with an archival certificate – a document confirming the authenticity of the diploma.

HOW TO OBTAIN IT?

1. Contact your school or university and request the archival certificate.
2. Once you receive it, print the document.
3. Have it translated by a certified court interpreter in Montenegro.

After submitting the archival certificate, the Ministry of Education issues a Decision on diploma recognition within 14 days.

WHICH DIPLOMA SHOULD YOU RECOGNIZE?

Your choice directly affects the minimum salary level in Montenegro:

• Primary or secondary school diploma – minimum salary: 600€ (contributions: 76.89€).
• Higher education diploma – minimum salary: 800€ (contributions: 127.32€).

Therefore, carefully choose which diploma you will recognize.

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROCESS

• Start the procedure on time to avoid delays.
• All documents must be translated and certified.