Monaco

🇲🇨

Phone Code

+377

Capital

Monaco

Population

39,000

Native Name

Monaco

Region

Europe

Western Europe

Timezone

Central European Time

UTC+01:00

On This Page

Money & CurrencyVisa OverviewVisa TypesImportant NotesCitiesEmbassies abroadEmbassies in country

Monaco is the world's second-smallest country (after Vatican City) at just 2.02 km² (0.78 sq mi), located on the French Riviera coast between France and the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its tiny size, Monaco is synonymous with wealth, luxury, and glamour. A constitutional monarchy ruled by the Grimaldi family since 1297 (Prince Albert II since 2005), Monaco is famous for its casino (Casino de Monte-Carlo), Formula 1 Grand Prix street circuit, yacht-filled harbor (Port Hercule), tax haven status (no income tax for residents except French nationals), and ultra-wealthy population. Monaco has world's highest GDP per capita and most expensive real estate (averaging €50,000+ per square meter). The entire country can be walked across in 30-45 minutes. Monte Carlo district is the famous gambling and luxury center. Visitors are drawn to Casino de Monte-Carlo (James Bond casino, strict dress code), Monaco Grand Prix circuit (May race, can walk/drive track rest of year), Prince's Palace and changing of guard, Oceanographic Museum (founded by Prince Albert I), Port Hercule superyacht watching, luxury shopping in Carré d'Or, Monaco Cathedral (Princess Grace burial site), Japanese Garden, and Monte Carlo Opera House. Monaco offers concentration of extreme wealth and Mediterranean beauty in world's most exclusive microstate.

Visa Requirements for Monaco

Monaco follows French visa policies despite being an independent country. IMPORTANT: Monaco is NOT part of the Schengen Area but applies the same entry conditions as France due to customs union. Citizens of EU/EEA countries, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and many others can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period (same as Schengen rules). Those requiring Schengen visas for France also need visas for Monaco - apply through French consulates (Monaco has no visa-issuing authority of its own). Entry to Monaco is only possible through France (no airport or seaport border controls) - you must enter France first, so French entry requirements apply. No passport stamp in Monaco as there are no border controls between France and Monaco. Passport must be valid for 3 months beyond intended stay. Monaco is extremely expensive destination requiring substantial proof of funds. For long-term stays, Monaco offers residence permits for wealthy individuals, retirees with high income, or those establishing businesses - extremely selective process requiring €500,000+ bank deposit. French visa policy = Monaco visa policy in practice.

Common Visa Types

Visa-Free Entry (via France)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period; enter through France (no border controls between France and Monaco); passport valid 3 months beyond stay; NO Monaco passport stamp (only French stamps); proof of sufficient funds essential (Monaco extremely expensive); accommodation booking; return ticket; same rules as France/Schengen.

For tourism or short visits for EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and 60+ other countries following Schengen visa-free list.

Schengen Visa (via French Consulate)

Up to 90 days typically; Monaco has no embassies/consulates so MUST apply via French diplomatic missions; state 'Monaco' as destination on Schengen application; requires travel insurance, hotel booking, flight tickets, proof of substantial funds (Monaco is very expensive); processing 5-15 days; standard Schengen visa covers Monaco.

For nationalities requiring visas for France, also required for Monaco - applied through French embassy/consulate.

Monaco Residence Permit

Renewable annually; requires €500,000+ deposited in Monaco bank, accommodation proof (rental or property ownership in Monaco - very expensive), police certificate, health insurance, Monaco residency application; residence offers tax benefits (no income tax, though French nationals taxed by France due to treaty); very difficult to obtain.

For long-term stays or establishing residency - extremely selective, for wealthy individuals only.

Long-Stay French Visa (D Visa)

3-12 months; apply through French consulates as Monaco has no visa authority; used by workers employed in Monaco (many live in France, work in Monaco); different from Monaco residence permit; provides right to enter Monaco from France.

For stays exceeding 90 days in France that may include Monaco visits, or working in Monaco.

Important Travel Information

No airport or seaport entry: Monaco has NO airport or commercial seaport entry point. MUST enter via France. Nearest airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (France, 30km/18 miles, 25 minutes by car/bus). Helicopter service from Nice to Monaco heliport (7 minutes, €150-200). Train from Nice to Monaco-Monte-Carlo station (20 minutes, €4). French entry requirements = Monaco entry requirements. No border controls between France and Monaco - free movement.

World's smallest country (2nd): Monaco is 2.02 km² (0.78 sq mi) - only Vatican City is smaller. Entire country walkable in 30-45 minutes. 39,000 residents in that tiny area = world's most densely populated country (26,000/km² vs Singapore's 8,000/km²). Four traditional districts: Monaco-Ville (old town, palace), Monte Carlo (casino, luxury), La Condamine (port), Fontvieille (newest, land reclamation).

Extremely expensive: Monaco has world's most expensive real estate (€50,000+ per square meter). Hotel rooms start €200-300/night for basic, luxury hotels €500-2,000+. Meals €30-50+ minimum. Casino entrance fee €17. Budget travelers not target market. Proof of substantial funds often requested at hotels. Most expensive destination in Europe, possibly world. Many visitors stay in nearby France (Menton, Nice, Antibes) and day trip.

Cities with missions

Where this country maintains embassies or consulates

Monaco
States & Regions in Monaco

Explore different regions and their cities.

Hosted missions

Embassies in Monaco

These foreign embassies and consulates are based here. Choose a mission to open its in-depth guide and contact details.

All countries by continent

Planning your Monaco luxury visit?

Check visa requirements