Today, the European Commission adopted a financial package setting out the budgetary arrangements that would apply to Montenegro upon its accession to the European Union. Montenegro advances in the accession process and this proposal marks a significant step in the country's path towards becoming a member of the Union, following the latest agreement by the Member States to start drafting the Accession Treaty.
Today's package falls under Chapter 33 – Financial & budgetary provisions – of Montenegro's accession negotiations. It provides a clear overview of the expected financial implications of Montenegro's EU accession.
Enlargement is a credible and strategic investment in Europe's stability, unity and prosperity. Montenegro's progress shows that, with sustained reforms and political commitment, accession can move steadily from aspiration to reality.
President von der Leyen said: "Today's package is another concrete step towards Montenegro's future in our Union. We are getting Montenegro, Member States and our institutions ready. Because enlargement succeeds when it is a shared European project built on merit, commitment and trust."
Preparing for Montenegro's smooth transition into the EU
This package is designed to ensure Montenegro's full participation in EU policies and budget – both as a beneficiary and as a contributor. It aims to prevent funding disruptions and minimise unnecessary administrative burden. All financial implications presented in the package are based on the Commission's proposal for the EU long-term budget of 16 July 2025.
In this package, the Commission is proposing a clear pathway on the same terms and with the same level of ambition as other Member States. This will help accelerate economic convergence, support sustained growth, and further boost integration in the EU's Single Market for the benefit of both Montenegro and other Member States. Montenegrin citizens, businesses, and institutions will benefit from increased investment, stronger public institutions, and deeper integration. A larger Union is also a stronger Union. At the same time, Montenegro's accession will contribute to Europe's stability, connectivity, and competitiveness.
Under the Commission's proposal for the next EU long-term budget, support for Member States is set to be delivered through results-based plans, covering areas such as regional development, agriculture, social policy and home affairs, with disbursements linked to the fulfilment of agreed steps. In the same spirit, the financial package for Montenegro sets out a structured transition from pre-accession assistance to support under the EU's internal funds. This will help ensure continuity, strengthen delivery and make sure EU funding is firmly focused on results.
Next steps
The Commission has submitted its proposal concerning Montenegro's financial package to the Council of the EU. This package is subject to negotiations between the EU and Montenegro. Building on this financial package, the Commission will also submit to the Council a draft common position on Chapter 33 – Financial and budgetary provisions.
Background
The accession negotiations with Montenegro started on 29 June 2012. By now, accession negotiations have been opened on all 33 chapters of EU laws and standards, of which 16 are provisionally closed. In May 2026, an ad hoc working group of the Council responsible for drafting the Accession Treaty with Montenegro was set up.
The negotiations for the next EU long-term budget (Multiannual Financial Framework, or MFF) are currently taking place.
