Montenegro plans to introduce visas for Russia and Belarus with the goal of EU membership
Key Points
- It has been reported that Montenegro plans to introduce a visa requirement for citizens of Russia and Belarus starting from October 1, 2026.
- This new visa policy, pursued with the goal of EU membership, is expected to extend to other countries such as Turkey and China in the upcoming period.
- The possibility of changing the current visa-free and 30-day travel right of Russian citizens is a significant issue for Montenegrin tourism.
- It is suggested that the country's administration aims to complete the visa processes by the end of 2027 and collect applications through VFS Global.
By the Numbers
Montenegro is preparing to align its visa policies with EU rules in order to advance its accession process to the European Union (EU). According to a report published on July 16 in the local newspaper DAN, the visa requirement for citizens of Russia and Belarus could start from October 1, 2026.
The scope of the said visa requirement will not be limited to only these two countries. According to claims in the media, following the entry into force of the new rule, it is planned to gradually introduce visa requirements for citizens of countries such as Turkey, China, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. It is stated that the Montenegrin government aims to complete these regulations by the end of 2027.
Currently, Russian citizens can travel to Montenegro visa-free and stay in the country for 30 days. However, local authorities have not yet officially confirmed these visa reports reflected in the press. According to 2025 data, Russians constitute 16.4% of all foreign visitors coming to Montenegro, ranking second after Serbian citizens with this rate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- When will the new visa rule for Russians traveling to Montenegro come into effect?
- According to reports in the local media, the visa requirement for Russian citizens is planned to start from October 1, 2026.
- Citizens of which countries will be affected by the new visa policy?
- Primarily, citizens of Russia and Belarus are planned to be subject to visas, and afterwards, countries such as Turkey, China, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain are expected to be included in the policy.
- Why does Montenegro want to change its visa policies?
- Montenegro is obliged to align its current visa rules with EU standards and requirements in order to become a full member of the European Union.
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