Montenegro will introduce visa requirements for Russian citizens no later than September next year, according to the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The measure is part of efforts to align Montenegro’s visa policy with that of the European Union.
“It is necessary for Montenegro to harmonize its visa policy with that of the EU by the end of the third quarter of 2026, which, among other things, means introducing a visa regime for Russian citizens,” the Ministry announced, as reported by Vijesti in Podgorica.
The Ministry told Radio Free Europe that this step is part of the obligations Montenegro has undertaken under the 2024–2027 Reform Agenda and its alignment with European standards under Chapter 24 – Justice, Freedom, and Security.
“The alignment with the EU visa policy is being implemented gradually and with careful consideration of national economic and other interests, which are essential for maintaining the country’s stability and long-term development,” the Ministry said.
Under the current Reciprocal Travel Agreement, Russian citizens can enter and stay in Montenegro for up to 30 days without a visa.
Official data from the Ministry of Interior show that over 21,100 Russian citizens reside in Montenegro, with the majority living along the coast, particularly in Budva.
Although Russians may stay up to 30 days visa-free, in practice many leave Montenegro briefly after that period—often only crossing the nearest border point—and upon returning receive a new 30-day visa-free stay.
