Monaco residence permit (carte de séjour): procedure and requirements
How to obtain your Monaco residence permit: conditions, required documents, steps with the Sûreté Publique and timelines.
Key facts
- Authority
- Direction de la Sûreté Publique
- Initial duration
- 1 year (then 3, then 10 years)
- Key requirement
- Housing in Monaco
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks from complete application
- Cost
- Free (administrative fees may apply)
What is the residency?
The carte de séjour is Monaco's official residence permit. It is issued by the Direction de la Sûreté Publique and is the essential document for anyone wishing to reside in the Principality.
Without a carte de séjour, you cannot legally reside in Monaco, even if you own property there.
Who needs one?
Any non-Monegasque person wishing to establish their principal residence in Monaco must apply for a carte de séjour. This includes EU/EEA citizens.
General requirements
To obtain a carte de séjour, you generally need to meet these conditions:
- Housing in Monaco: signed lease or proof of ownership
- Sufficient financial resources: bank statements, proof of funds, employment contract or income
- Clean criminal record: extract from your country of origin and previous country of residence
- Health insurance: valid health coverage in Monaco
Exact requirements vary by nationality and professional/family situation.
Steps
1. Prepare your file
Gather all supporting documents. Foreign-language documents must be translated into French by a sworn translator and, where applicable, apostilled.
2. Book an appointment
Contact the Residents Section of the Direction de la Sûreté Publique to arrange an appointment.
3. Submit your application in person
Attend with all original documents and copies at the Sûreté Publique office.
4. Processing
The administration reviews your application. Additional documents may be requested. Processing typically takes several weeks.
5. Issuance
If approved, you will be called to collect your carte de séjour.
Generally required documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of housing in Monaco (lease or property deed)
- Proof of financial resources
- Criminal record extract from country of origin (apostilled and translated)
- Criminal record from previous country of residence
- Passport photos
- Health insurance certificate
- Birth certificate (translated)
- Marriage certificate if applicable
This list is indicative. The exact documents required depend on your personal situation. Check the official website or contact the Sûreté Publique for an up-to-date list.
Renewal
The carte de séjour must be renewed before it expires. Renewals follow a progressive pattern:
- First card: 1 year
- Subsequent renewals: 3 years
- After extended residence: 10 years (ordinary resident card)
Where to apply
- Direction de la Sûreté Publique – Residents Section
- Address: 3 rue Louis Notari, MC 98000 Monaco
- Appointments recommended
Frequently asked questions
The information provided is for general guidance only. For official procedures, always consult the official sources.
Related pages
See all guidesOpening a bank account in Monaco: requirements and major banks
How to open a bank account in Monaco: documentation required, major banks, what to expect and practical tips.
Healthcare in Monaco: hospitals, insurance and the health system
Reference guide to Monaco's healthcare system — CHPG hospital, CCSS social security, Monaco Santé, finding practitioners, emergency services, and reimbursement.
Renting In Monaco: navigating the housing market
How to find and rent a flat in Monaco: market overview, estate agencies, lease essentials and what to expect in terms of costs.
Living in Monaco: what you need to know
Essentials to understand before moving to Monaco: residency, taxation, daily life and key steps.