Montenegro is set to reinstate visa requirements for citizens of Russia, Belarus and Türkiye as part of efforts to align its visa policy more closely with European Union rules during its EU accession process.
The Montenegrin government has approved information on the need to terminate the bilateral agreements governing visa-free travel with the three countries.
Under amendments to Montenegro’s Visa Regime Regulation adopted by the government on July 23, citizens of Russia, Belarus and Türkiye will require visas from November 1, 2026, for entry, transit and stay in Montenegro.
The government said that because visa arrangements with the three countries are also regulated through international agreements, formal procedures must be initiated to terminate the existing bilateral agreements.
The move is part of Montenegro’s broader efforts to harmonize its visa policy with EU legislation as the country advances its negotiations for EU membership.
Special arrangements for Turkish passport holders
For Türkiye, the Montenegrin government plans to launch an initiative to conclude a new bilateral agreement that would preserve visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic, official and special passports.
The authorities said the aim is to maintain, as far as possible, visa-free arrangements for these categories while ensuring full compliance with EU rules.
Montenegro, an EU candidate country, has been gradually adjusting its legislation and policies to meet the requirements of EU membership, including in the area of migration and visa policy.
