OpenMonaco
Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour): Cost, Requirements & Processing Time (2026)
The short version
Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) requires a minimum investment of €500,000 (bank deposit route), with residency in ~3–6 months and a path to citizenship in 10 years.
Investment routes compared
| Route type | Amount (EUR) | Notes | Primary? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank deposit | €500,000 | ~€500K estimated deposit at a Monaco bank (amount varies by bank; some require more). Deposit remains under your ownership. | Most common |
| Real estate | No financial investment | Must own or rent (12 months+) a Monaco property as primary residence. No minimum price but Monaco rental market starts around €4K/month for a studio. |
At a glance
- €500,000 minimum qualifying investment
- ~3–6 months expected end-to-end processing
- 10 years of residence citizenship timeline
- No Schengen access travel rights
- ~90 days/yr physical-presence requirement
Physical presence: Minimum 3 months per year actual residence in Monaco. Monaco is very small — this is easy to meet for genuine residents.
Official program source · Source: Government of the Principality of Monaco · Last verified Jul 16, 2026 (7 weeks ago) · Verify current rules with an authorized immigration adviser or the destination's consulate before applying.
Next review 2026-10-26.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum investment for the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)?
The minimum qualifying investment is €500,000. ~€500,000 estimated bank deposit (not a fee — remains yours, must be maintained; amount varies by bank). Plus obligatory Monaco property (purchase or 12-month+ lease). Qualifying routes: Bank deposit (€500,000); Real estate (€0) Most applicants use the Bank deposit route (€500,000).
How long does the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) take to process?
Expected end-to-end processing is ~3–6 months. Process begins with bank reference letter (confirming deposit), then application to Monaco authorities. Typically 3-6 months for initial temp card.
Can I get citizenship through the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour), and when?
Citizenship is available after 10 years of legal residence. Monaco citizenship is discretionary and rarely granted. Naturalization requires 10+ years continuous residence, French proficiency (Monaco's official language), and is granted at the Prince's discretion. Most residents remain permanent residents indefinitely.
What is the physical-presence requirement for the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)?
Minimum 3 months per year actual residence in Monaco. Monaco is very small — this is easy to meet for genuine residents.
Are my spouse and children included in the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)?
Spouse, minor children can be included.
Does the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) grant Schengen access?
No. Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) does not by itself grant Schengen-area travel rights.
Is the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) currently open to new applicants?
The programme is currently open.
Who regulates the Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)?
Monaco Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) is administered by Government of the Principality of Monaco. The canonical source is https://monservicepublic.gouv.mc/en/themes/nationality-and-residency/residency/new-entrants/how-to-apply-for-a-residence-permit. Facts last verified 2026-07-16; next review 2026-10-26.