Requirements for Importing IT Equipment to Montenegro

Montenegro’s ongoing digital and infrastructure development presents a favourable opportunity to foreign IT importers. These include the Digital Transformation Strategy, Digital Nomads Program, and Cyber Security Strategy.

Such projects create a high demand for modern ICT equipment such as data centre equipment, 5G technologies, and IoT devices.

Let’s discuss what you need to know before importing to Montenegro and how an importer of record, such as Blackthorne, simplifies the importation.

5 IT Equipment Import Requirements in Montenegro

Montenegro aligns its IT equipment import requirements with the EU regulations, specifically for electronic and radio equipment.

Here are the five key requirements to comply with when importing

1. Technical Requirements

The Agency for Electronic Communications and Postal Services (EKIP) is responsible for overseeing compliance with relevant technical regulations, including:

  • Low-Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU): Equipment must protect the health and safety of users and their property
  • EMC Directive (2014/30/EU): Equipment must not emit or be subject to harmful electromagnetic disturbance
  • Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU: Equipment must efficiently use allocated spectrum

Additionally, the Ministry of Economic Development of Montenegro requires that IT equipment within specific categories or types:

  • Interoperate with other devices and connect to appropriate network interfaces
  • Do not harm networks or degrade service quality through misuse or overload
  • Ensure data protection and privacy for users
  • Include anti-fraud procedures
  • Support access to emergency services
  • Is accessible to users with disability

As proof of conformity, Montenegro accepts CE-compliant reports from recognised labs. CE marking is also required to provide market access.

2. Certifications, Approvals, and Licensing Requirements

Besides the CE marking, equipment classified under the following categories may require further licensing or approval:

  • Arms, military or law enforcement equipment: Import licence under the Foreign Trade in Arms and Military Equipment Act
  • Dual-use or strategic goods: Dual-use licence under the Dual Use Act

3. Customs Procedures

For a seamless customs clearance, you must:

  • Submit an import declaration (the Single Administrative Document)
  • Have a physical entity (representative) 
  • Process and submit transport, technical, and sales paperwork
  • Pay applicable duties and taxes
  • Ensure compliance with all import requirements and regulations

4. Documentation Requirements

Here are the key documents to submit when importing IT equipment to Montenegro:

  • Commercial Invoice 
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading/ Airway Bill 
  • Certificate of Origin 
  • Single Administrative Document (SAD)
  • Import permits/ approvals and certifications
  • Technical compliance certificates
  • Product Safety and EMC Reports
  • Labels and Instructions in Montenegrin

5. Duties and Taxes

The current duties and tax rates in Montenegro are as follows:

  • Import duties: Most ICT equipment attracts low (5%) to zero customs duties, depending on the HS classification.
  • VAT: The standard VAT rate is 21%

Import with an IOR

Use our online calculator to see how much it costs to ship to the USA with Blackthorne IT

Import to Montenegro with Blackthorne

Here are the top three resolutions Blackthorne IOR provides to simplify the importation process:

  • Entity representation: You can use Blackthorne as your local entity rather than registering your business to save time and lower importation costs.
  • 360 compliance: You are assured of compliance with all import requirements, avoiding unnecessary costs and delays.
  • Equipment safety: Our freight forwarding team coordinates with the consignee and adopts equipment handling best practices for a safe door-to-door delivery.

Import into Montenegro with Blackthorne IOR Services

Ready to expand your business to Montenegro without a hassle?

You can call or email us at sales@blackthorneit.com to get started.