What is an NGO?
The acronym NGO stands for “non-governmental organisation”. The term is closely linked to the concept of civil society. In addition to “non-governmental organisation”, the term “citizens’ association” is also used.
It is an association or organisation that is not under the authority of the government and whose founder is not the state. The term NGO generally refers to social, cultural, legal and other groups that advocate certain goals which are primarily non-profit and non-commercial — and derive at least part of their income from private donors.
An NGO is a voluntary non-profit organisation with members — established by domestic or foreign natural or legal persons for the purpose of pursuing certain common or general goals and interests.
Two types of NGO under the law
- Non-governmental associations
- Non-governmental foundations
Documentation for the Ministry of Public Administration
When establishing an NGO, the following must be submitted to the Ministry of Public Administration as the competent authority:
- Application for registration in the NGO register
- Founding act
- Minutes of the founding assembly
- Articles of association
- Copies of founders’ identity cards (or a certified copy of a passport if one of the founders is a foreigner) — or founding documentation (registration decision and tax ID) if the founder is a legal entity
- Submit the complete documentation in person or by post to the records office of the Ministry of Public Administration — Rimski Trg 45, 81000 Podgorica
- A decision is issued within 10 days
- Upon receipt of the decision — have the NGO’s stamp made
Registration with Monstat
Once the decision has been obtained and the stamp made, you must register with the Statistical Office of Montenegro — Monstat.
For registration with Monstat you need
- A copy of the decision on NGO registration
- A completed application for classification by activity
Opening a business bank account
After registration with the CRPS it is necessary to open a business bank account at the chosen bank and have the association’s stamp made.
Documents for opening the account
- Copy of the registration decision (from the MUP)
- Copy of the notification on classification by activity (from Monstat)
- Completed and certified OP form (certified by a court or notary)
- Application to open an account, signature-specimen card, account-opening and management agreement, proof of payment (obtained at the bank)
- Certificate of entry in the Business Entities Register (from the CRPS) — if the NGO is also to engage in commercial activity
Are you planning to set up an NGO in Montenegro? Contact Finance Plus — we will prepare all the documentation and guide you through the procedure.
