Expat Communities
Expat groups, social events, and networking opportunities to build your network in Montenegro.
Overview
Moving to a new country can be challenging, but connecting with fellow expatriates can significantly ease the transition and enrich your experience. Montenegro boasts a growing and vibrant expat community, especially in popular coastal areas and the capital. This page will help you discover various groups, social events, and networking tips to build your support system and social life in your new home.
Expat Groups
Online Platforms:
- Montenegro Expats Community (Facebook Group)
- Expats in Montenegro
- Digital Nomads Montenegro
- Podgorica Expats
- Budva Expats
- Kotor Expats
- Tivat Expats
- WhatsApp/Telegram Groups: Often created from Facebook groups for more immediate communication.
- Nationality-Specific Groups: Search for "Americans in Montenegro", "Germans in Montenegro", etc.
- Interest-Based Groups: Look for groups around hobbies, sports, parenting, business, or professional fields.
Events Calendar
- Regular Meetups: Many expat groups organize social gatherings, coffee mornings, pub nights, or themed events.
- Cultural Events: Participate in local festivals, concerts, and public holidays to experience the culture and meet locals.
- Sports & Outdoor Activities: Join local sports clubs (hiking, cycling, sailing, football) or expat-led activity groups.
- Volunteer Opportunities: A great way to meet people and contribute to the local community.
- Networking Events: Business chambers and professional meetups/workshops are valuable for making connections.
Where to Find Events:
- Facebook Events: Check events posted within expat groups.
- Local Tourist Boards/Cultural Centers: Websites or offices often list upcoming events.
- Local News Websites/Event Listings: English-language news sources may have event calendars.
- Word of Mouth: Often the best way to hear about informal gatherings.
- American Chamber of Commerce Montenegro
Networking Tips
- Be proactive: Reach out and introduce yourself in groups.
- Attend events: Show up to meetups, even if you feel shy initially.
- Join a club or activity: Share a hobby or interest with others.
- Learn the language: Even basic Montenegrin phrases help break the ice.
- Be open-minded: Embrace the opportunity to learn from different cultures.
- Offer help/share experiences: Contributing to discussions builds rapport.
- Be patient: Building a strong network takes time and effort.
- Engage with locals: Don't forget to connect with Montenegrins for true immersion.
Key Expat Hubs in Montenegro
- Coastal Region (Budva, Tivat, Kotor, Herceg Novi): Vibrant expat communities, especially in summer, with retirees, digital nomads, and those in tourism.
- Podgorica: The capital has a diverse expat scene, including professionals, diplomatic staff, and students, with more year-round activities.
- Northern Montenegro (Kolašin, Žabljak): Smaller but growing community, especially for outdoor enthusiasts and a quieter lifestyle.
Disclaimer: This page provides general guidance. Expat group activity and event details can change. Always check group rules and consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.