Montenegro Prepares to Change Its Visa Regime: Why It Is Better Not to Postpone Applying for Residence

 

On 24 July 2026, information was published about a proposed amendment to Montenegro’s current Visa Regime Regulation. According to the proposal, citizens of Russia and Belarus may continue entering Montenegro without a visa until 31 October 2026 inclusive and staying in the country for up to 30 days with a valid travel document.

This means that from 1 November 2026, citizens of Russia and Belarus may be required to obtain a visa to enter Montenegro.

The proposed amendments and the deadline of 31 October 2026 were reported by Radio-Television Nikšić, with reference to the published draft regulation.

It is important to note that the document currently has the status of a Predlog, meaning that it is still a proposal. The new rules will take effect only after the document has been approved and officially published in the Official Gazette of Montenegro.

Until then, the current rules remain in force. According to the official information published by the Government of Montenegro, citizens of Russia and Belarus may currently enter, transit through and stay in Montenegro without a visa for up to 30 days with a valid travel document.

Why Montenegro Is Changing Its Entry Rules

The proposed changes are connected with Montenegro’s European integration process. The country is gradually aligning its visa policy with the visa policy of the European Union.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs previously confirmed that introducing visas for Russian citizens is part of Montenegro’s obligations within the EU accession process and the alignment required under Chapter 24, which covers justice, freedom, security, borders and visa policy. More details are available in the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty report based on comments from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro.

This is not a reason to panic or make rushed decisions. However, for those who already live in Montenegro or are planning to relocate, purchase property or stay in the country long term, the announcement is a strong reason to regularise their residence status in advance.

How Residence Differs from Tourist Stay

Visa-free entry is primarily intended for short-term visits. A temporary residence permit allows a foreign citizen to remain legally in Montenegro beyond the permitted tourist period, provided that the conditions for the chosen basis of residence are met.

According to the official Government of Montenegro information on entry and exit, a foreigner may enter and stay in Montenegro with a valid travel document accompanied by a temporary residence permit, a temporary residence and work permit or a permanent residence permit.

Applying for residence requires selecting a suitable legal basis, collecting certificates, arranging translations and submitting the necessary documents. It is therefore more practical to begin the process in advance rather than wait until the new rules take effect and the number of applications potentially increases.

Grounds for Obtaining Residence in Montenegro

GoMonte helps clients select the most suitable option based on their individual circumstances and provides full support with residence applications on the basis of:

• purchasing property in Montenegro;
• opening a company and obtaining employment;
• employment with a Montenegrin employer;
• remote work and digital nomad status;
• family reunification.

The Government of Montenegro lists property ownership, work and family reunification among the recognised grounds for temporary residence on its official temporary residence information page.

The rules for digital nomads, including temporary residence for people working remotely for a foreign company or their own company registered outside Montenegro, are described on the official Digital Nomads Montenegro portal.

The requirements and document package depend on the chosen legal basis, so it is important to assess each case individually before beginning the process.

Special GoMonte Terms Until 31 August

Until 31 August 2026, clients purchasing a residence application service package may choose one of two special offers.

1. Payment in two instalments

50% is paid when the documents are submitted, and the remaining 50% is paid when the completed documents are collected from our office.

2. 20% discount

The discount applies when the full service package is paid in advance.

Our support includes selecting the appropriate legal basis, preparing and translating documents, accompanying clients during submission, assisting with company registration and opening a bank account, as well as arranging residence documents for family members.

Property Purchase and Residence Services in One Place

For those planning both relocation and property purchase, GoMonte can help find suitable real estate in Montenegro and organise the residence application process at the same time.

Our property search services are provided to buyers without commission. We carry out a legal review of the property and support the transaction at every stage. Payment in cryptocurrency or another convenient currency may also be possible, subject to prior agreement with a manager.

The proposed visa changes have not yet entered into force. However, the overall direction of Montenegro’s visa policy is already clear. This makes the present moment a good opportunity to assess the available residence options, prepare the documents and regularise your status without unnecessary urgency.

Free GoMonte consultation

 +382 67 322 888 WhatsApp / Viber / Telegram  gomonte.me

This article is provided for informational purposes only. Visa and immigration rules may change following the approval and official publication of new regulations.

Sources

• Report on the proposed amendments and extension of visa-free entry until 31 October 2026 — Radio-Television Nikšić
• Current visa rules — Government of Montenegro
• Entry and exit rules for residence permit holders — Government of Montenegro
• Temporary residence in Montenegro — Government of Montenegro
• Legal status for digital nomads — official Digital Nomads Montenegro portal
• Visa policy alignment within Montenegro’s EU accession process — Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty