Monaco's residence permit for persons without professional activity allows financially independent foreign nationals to live in the Principality without engaging in any local employment. Governed by Sovereign Ordinance No. 3.153 of 19 March 1964 and administered by the Direction de la Sûreté Publique, it targets retirees, pensioners, and individuals living on investment returns, rental income, or savings. Monaco has long attracted high-net-worth residents thanks to its absence of personal income tax, favourable climate, and security.
There is no fixed minimum income or deposit requirement set by the government. Instead, applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources through a bank reference from a Monaco-based bank, with the amount judged sufficient determined by the banking establishment itself. In practice, satisfying the authorities requires substantial deposits.
The permit follows a three-stage progression:
Renewal applications must be submitted during the month before the card expires; a late renewal surcharge of EUR 50 applies. Renewal of the temporary card requires proof of effective residence in Monaco, which the authorities verify through utility consumption records and financial activity.
Each family member aged 16 or over must apply for their own residence permit individually, subject to the same conditions of sufficient resources and accommodation. Children under 16 receive a circulation document rather than a residence permit. A spouse or close relative may serve as the financial guarantor by providing a signed letter of support and their own financial documentation. Accommodation must be of sufficient size for the household.
Monaco levies no personal income tax, no wealth tax, no capital gains tax, and no property tax on individuals. The one major exception: French nationals who established residence in Monaco after 13 October 1957 remain subject to French income tax under the 1963 Franco-Monégasque Tax Convention. Inheritance and gift taxes apply only to assets situated within Monaco. After about one year of residence, residents may obtain a tax residency certificate (EUR 600), which requires residing in Monaco for more than 183 days per year or demonstrating that Monaco is the centre of their economic interests.
Holders may not engage in any professional or employment activity in Monaco. Any local employment requires separate work authorisation from the Direction du Travail.
Processing time: Approximately 3 months
Fees: Initial temporary card EUR 80 (renewal EUR 40); first ordinary card EUR 100 (renewal EUR 50); first privileged card EUR 160 (renewal EUR 80)
Non-EEA nationals must first obtain a French long-stay visa (visa D) from a French consulate, as Monaco's immigration system is linked to France's. EEA nationals may apply directly without a visa.
Applications can be submitted online via the MonServicePublic portal or in person at the Residency Section, 9 rue Suffren-Reymond, Monaco. Online applicants submit digitised documents and are then called for an interview with originals. Following approval, applicants receive a second appointment for registration and card issuance. New residents should register with the Residency Section within 8 days of arrival.