⚠️ Important news for travellers. The Government of Montenegro has officially confirmed that from 1 November 2026, Russian citizens will need a visa to enter the country. The change is part of bringing Montenegro's visa policy fully in line with the European Union, as the country works towards completing its EU accession negotiations.
According to the Montenegrin Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the same visa requirement from 1 November 2026 also applies to citizens of Belarus, China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The relevant amendments were approved by the Government of Montenegro on 23 July 2026.
Until 31 October 2026, Russian citizens can still enter Montenegro visa-free for stays of up to 30 days, as before. From 1 November 2026, a visa will be required in advance for tourism, business and most other types of travel.
According to Montenegrin authorities, holders of a valid Schengen visa, as well as valid visas or residence permits from the UK, USA, Ireland and a number of other countries, will still be able to enter Montenegro without a separate Montenegrin visa for up to 30 days, subject to the applicable conditions.
| Nationality | Visa-free until | Visa required from |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | 31 October 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| Belarus | 31 October 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| China | 31 October 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| Saudi Arabia | 31 October 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| Turkey | 31 October 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
If you already hold a valid Schengen visa, or a valid UK, US or Irish visa or residence permit, you should still be able to enter Montenegro visa-free for up to 30 days under the current rules — always confirm your specific case with the Montenegrin embassy before travelling.
If you're planning a trip to Montenegro after 1 November 2026, we recommend the following:
From 1 November 2026. Until 31 October 2026, Russian citizens can still enter Montenegro visa-free for up to 30 days.
Alongside Russia, the same visa requirement from 1 November 2026 applies to citizens of Belarus, China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
According to Montenegrin authorities, holders of a valid Schengen visa, or a valid UK, US or Irish visa or residence permit, can still enter without a separate Montenegrin visa for up to 30 days, subject to applicable conditions.
SlotBot will be monitoring updates on the Montenegro visa application process, appointment openings, and the start of applications. Follow us so you don't miss important updates.
SlotBot monitors visa centre appointment availability every 60 seconds across 24 Schengen countries from the UK and UAE, and will extend coverage as Montenegro's new visa process opens up. SlotBot either notifies you instantly when a slot appears, or books it automatically on your behalf.
Notifications from £35 · Autobooking from £95. Follow SlotBot for updates as the process opens.
📔 How to Get a Schengen Visa from the UK
🛂 Schengen Visa in the UK with a Travel Document
This article is based on official statements from the Government of Montenegro and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as of 28 July 2026. Requirements and exemptions can change — always confirm current rules with the nearest Montenegrin embassy or consulate before travelling. This is not legal or immigration advice.