Moving to Monaco: the essential steps every new resident should know about
Moving to Monaco isn't just about changing countries: it's about entering a unique, secure, international and demanding living environment. Whether you're a family, an entrepreneur, an investor or a new expatriate, arriving in the Principality involves a number of important steps to help you integrate smoothly.
This guide provides a clear and accessible overview of the essential steps involved, and shows how KaliDirectory makes each step easier, thanks to its sectorized search engine and qualified professionals.
1. Obtaining a residence permit: the first essential step
Anyone wishing to live permanently in Monaco must apply to the Sûreté Publique for a residence permit.
Documents to be provided: proof of accommodation, income, insurance, identity papers...
Some foreign documents must be officially translated.
KaliDirectory enables you to immediately identify approved translators.
Please note: depending on your personal situation, the exact documents required may vary. We recommend that you check the requirements with the authorities.
2. Finding accommodation: understanding a market that's unique in the world
Monaco's real estate market is demanding, structured and highly responsive. New residents generally go through specialized real estate agencies or syndicates to secure their move.
👉 Consult real estate agencies in Monaco
KaliDirectory helps you quickly find reliable professionals who actually operate in the Principality.
3. Opening a bank account and organizing day-to-day administration
Local banks help new residents with :
- account opening,
- insurance,
- financial transactions.
Then there are the formalities: energy, internet, health insurance...
KaliDirectory makes it easy to find the right service providers.
4. Translating and certifying foreign documents: an often indispensable step
With over 130 nationalities represented, Monaco receives foreign documents every day.
Depending on the file, a sworn translation may be required:
- civil status documents,
- contracts
- notarized documents,
- diplomas,
- various certificates.
A simple translation can result in an administrative refusal.
Important: requirements may vary depending on the file. Checking in advance avoids delays and complications.
5. Secure and equip your new home
Whether it's an apartment or a villa, many new residents need technical services:
- plumbing,
- air conditioning
- electricity,
- kitchens,
- painting,
- renovation,
- pool maintenance.
In a densely populated area like Monaco, reliable craftsmen are essential.
👉 See craftsmen and renovation companies
KaliDirectory lists qualified professionals able to intervene quickly in the Principality.
6. Understand Monaco's economic ecosystem
Finance, real estate, yachting, healthcare, retail, digital services...
Knowing these sectors helps new residents find their way around, find the right service providers and understand the Principality's business codes.
7. Integrating into a structured, international environment
Monaco offers an exceptional quality of life, but is based on a precise organization.
For many new arrivals, KaliDirectory becomes the ideal gateway to discover local companies, compare services and save time.
Conclusion
Moving to Monaco is an exciting but structured process. By understanding the essential steps - accommodation, documents, administrative formalities, setting up home, local service providers - every newcomer can integrate serenely.
Thanks to its sector-based search engine and verified companies, KaliDirectory can help you at every stage of your move to the Principality.
Depending on your personal situation, certain steps may vary. It is always advisable to check the exact conditions with the authorities or qualified professionals.
Frequently asked questions
To take up permanent residence, you need to submit an application to the Sûreté Publique, including proof of accommodation, income, insurance and identity papers. Depending on the origin of the documents, a sworn translation may be required.
Yes, a residence permit is only granted if you can prove that you have accommodation in the Principality (rented, owned or rented out).
Civil status certificates, bank documents, notarial documents, diplomas or professional credentials may require a sworn translation. This depends on the type of application.
As the market is very specific, we recommend using a local real estate agency familiar with Monegasque regulations and condominiums.
Plumbers, electricians, air-conditioning specialists, kitchen designers, renovation companies and swimming pool maintenance companies all work in the Principality on a regular basis. We advise you to select professionals who are qualified to work in Monaco.
Yes, a local bank will help you with residence formalities, day-to-day management, insurance and administrative obligations.
Yes, the documents required vary depending on the situation: work contract, personal income, setting up a business, proof of pension, etc. We recommend checking the exact list with the Monegasque authorities.
Settling in can take from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the availability of accommodation, translation of documents and validation of the residency file.
Not always. To operate legally in the Principality, a company must meet certain administrative obligations. So it's best to contact craftsmen already established in Monaco.
KaliDirectory lists local businesses by sector: real estate agencies, translators, craftsmen, banks, administrative services. An essential resource for settling in with peace of mind.