Popular Russian holiday hotspot may end visa-free entry: Timeline revealed
Photo: Montenegro (Getty Images)
Montenegro's authorities could soon decide to introduce visa requirements for citizens of Russia and Belarus. The move is linked to the country's obligations to the European Union as part of its preparations for EU membership, Dan informs.
When the rules could change
Montenegro's government is considering introducing visa requirements for Russian and Belarusian citizens as early as October 1, according to local outlet Dan, citing its sources.
The move would be part of a gradual alignment of the country's visa policy with European Union requirements. Under commitments made to Brussels, Podgorica must fully harmonize its visa regulations with EU legislation by the end of 2027.
In the future, visa requirements could also be extended to citizens of Türkiye, China, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and other countries whose nationals require visas to enter the EU.
Why Montenegro is taking this step
According to the government's reform program, Montenegro is obliged to gradually phase out visa-free agreements with countries whose visa policies do not align with those of the European Union.
At the same time, the country must begin implementing Schengen standards, including the collection of applicants' biometric data. To process visa applications, the authorities plan to work with VFS Global, an international operator that already cooperates with most Schengen countries and handles document submissions and biometric data collection before forwarding applications to consulates.
As previously reported, Ukraine does not plan to lift enhanced controls on Russian citizens after the war ends. Ukrainian authorities have said that special entry procedures for Russians will remain in place, as Russia will continue to be viewed as a potential national security threat even after hostilities cease.
