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Monaco attracts highly skilled professionals from sectors such as finance, technology, hospitality, engineering, and luxury services.?Although Monaco is not part of the EU or Schengen, it has its own strict but business-friendly visa system.?Here’s a simple breakdown of how high-skilled professionals can legally live and work in Monaco.
1. Work Authorization Is Required for All Non-Monégasque Nationals
Unlike many countries, Monaco does not issue a traditional “work visa.”?Instead, high-skilled professionals must obtain:
1 Work Authorization (issued by Monaco authorities)
2 Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) — after securing employment
Both are mandatory unless the applicant is Monégasque.
2. Job Offer Required Before Applying
High-skilled professionals must have a confirmed employment contract with a Monaco-based company.?Monaco employers must show:
• The job is real and necessary
• The role requires the applicant’s skills
• No suitable local/EU candidate is available
This acts as Monaco’s labor market check.
3. Work Authorization (Autorisation de Travail)
To hire a high-skilled professional, the employer applies for the authorization through the:
Employment Office (Service de l’Emploi)
The requirements include:
• Copy of applicant’s passport
• Employment contract
• Qualifications proving high-skill status
• Evidence the employer complied with recruitment rules
Approval is required before the applicant can start work.
4. Residence Permit for High-Skilled Workers
Once the work authorization is approved, the professional must apply for a Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour).
There are three main categories:
4.1 Temporary Residence Card (1 year)
For newly hired professionals and employees on standard contracts.
4.2 Ordinary Residence Card (3 years)
Issued after several years of residence and stable employment.
4.3 Privileged Residence Card (10 years)
Granted after long-term residence and strong ties to Monaco.
All cards require proof of:
• Housing in Monaco
• Financial stability / income
• Clean criminal record
• Valid work authorization
5. Proof of Accommodation Is Mandatory
The applicant must show suitable housing in Monaco, such as:
• Rental contract
• Property deed
• Employer-provided accommodation
This is one of the strictest requirements for residence in Monaco.
6. High-Skilled Professionals Can Bring Family Members
Once approved, they may sponsor dependents under family reunification, provided they meet:
• Income requirements
• Housing criteria
• Health insurance rules
Each dependent must apply for their own residence card.
7. Can High-Skilled Professionals Become Self-Employed?
Yes — but they must obtain a Professional Card (Carte Professionnelle) if they intend to:
• Work independently
• Start a business
• Offer consulting services
This requires approval from the Economic Expansion Directorate.
8. Duration and Renewal
Work authorization and residence permits are renewed if:
• Employment continues
• Income remains stable
• Housing is maintained
• No legal violations occur
Professionals must remain in Monaco for most of the year to keep their status.
Key Takeaway
High-skilled professionals in Monaco must follow a two-step process:
1 Work Authorization from Monaco’s Employment Office
2 Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) based on employment
Monaco strongly favors qualified workers, but compliance with housing, income, and documentation rules is essential.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.?Visa and work authorization rules in Monaco may change based on government policies.?Always verify requirements with Monaco’s official employment and residence authorities before applying.
November 18, 2025
