Montserrat
The Government of Montserrat has amended the Immigration (Permanent Residence Permits) Regulations, extending the required period of ordinary residence from 12 to 15 years. This change, enacted through Statutory Rules and Orders (S.R.O.) No. 2 of 2026, was made by the Governor on January 15, 2026, and published on January 22, 2026.
To qualify for permanent residency under the new regulation, applicants must demonstrate continuous and lawful residence in Montserrat for 15 years. Additional conditions include proof of gainful employment and financial stability during the six months immediately preceding the application. Applicants must either maintain a savings account in Montserrat with an average monthly balance of at least EC$5,000 or own real property valued at no less than EC$50,000.
The amendment also provides for certain dependents, including minor children who have been ordinarily resident in Montserrat and living with the applicant at the time of application, as well as dependents of individuals granted economic residence under existing immigration regulations.
Applicants are required to submit a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner in Montserrat, certifying that they are free from notifiable communicable diseases. In exceptional cases, a certificate from a practitioner not registered in Montserrat may be accepted at the discretion of the Governor.
These changes have been lawfully effected through the S.R.O. process, and no further legislative action is anticipated.
