Montenegro will introduce visa requirements for citizens of Russia, Belarus, China, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye from November 1, 2026, as the country aligns its border policy with European Union standards ahead of its planned accession to the bloc.

The move is part of Montenegro’s commitment to fully harmonize its visa regime with EU rules, a key requirement in its ongoing membership negotiations.

Visa-Free Travel to End for Five Countries

From November 1, 2026, citizens of Russia, Belarus, China, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye will be required to obtain a visa before traveling to Montenegro. The new rules will apply to all types of travel, including tourism, business, transit and private visits.

The only exemption will be for holders of valid diplomatic passports.

Visa Applications Through Partner Centers

To ease the transition, Montenegro’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will process applications through a partner visa center network. The government also plans to introduce an electronic visa (e-visa) system in the future.

Further details, including required documents, application fees and processing times, will be published closer to the implementation date.

Part of Montenegro’s EU Accession Strategy

The changes are designed to bring Montenegro’s border and visa policy into line with European Union standards as the country works toward its target of joining the EU by 2028.

For many years, Montenegro allowed visa-free entry for citizens of several non-EU countries for stays of up to 30 days. Although the country has used the euro since 2002, it is not part of the Schengen Area. Montenegro applied for EU membership in 2008 and continues to advance its accession negotiations.