Montenegro Ends Visa-Free Entry for China, Saudi Arabia, Three Others

New Visa Requirements from 1 November 2026

Montenegro will implement new visa requirements for citizens of Belarus, China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey starting 1 November 2026. This change means nationals from these five countries will need a visa for entry.

The Montenegrin government formally adopted this measure through a decree on 23 July 2026, which was subsequently published in the Official Gazette of Montenegro on 24 July 2026, and entered into force the following day, 25 July 2026.

While the decree became law in July, its direct impact on travellers commences at the start of November, marking a significant alteration to Montenegro’s entry rules for these nations.

Ending Previous Visa Exemptions

Until 31 October 2026, specific visa-free arrangements remain in effect. Citizens of Belarus and Russia currently benefit from 30-day visa-free stays under bilateral agreements, while Saudi Arabian and Turkish nationals enjoy a similar temporary waiver for up to 30 days. These exemptions will cease on 31 October.

For Chinese nationals, who do not have a general individual visa exemption, special provisions for organised tour groups (requiring proof of prepaid travel and return tickets) and certain public affairs passport holders (with an invitation) will also conclude on the same date.

Furthermore, seasonal visa exemptions, previously introduced by government decisions, will end on 1 October 2026, with no further waivers granted through this mechanism after 31 October.

Aligning with European Union Standards

Montenegro’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated this reform completes the alignment of the country’s visa policy with that of the European Union. This harmonisation is a key requirement for Montenegro’s progress towards closing Chapter 24 of its EU accession negotiations, which addresses justice, freedom, and security.

It also forms part of Podgorica’s broader reform commitments. These latest adjustments follow earlier measures in October 2025, when Montenegro previously withdrew visa exemptions for citizens from Armenia, Egypt, Kuwait, and Uzbekistan, indicating a consistent move towards stricter entry regulations in line with EU standards.

Application Process and Asian Traveller Impact

To facilitate visa applications, Montenegro is expanding its collaboration with VFS Global. Travellers from affected countries, including China and Saudi Arabia, can submit applications through VFS Global centres, avoiding direct embassy or consulate visits. Currently, VFS Global operates in Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, India, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

Montenegro anticipates opening additional centres in Saudi Arabia, Belarus, and China, alongside other locations across Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, with specific details to be announced. Existing exemptions for holders of valid Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visas or residence permits, allowing stays up to 30 days, are expected to remain.

Montenegro is also developing an e-Visa system, though a launch date has not been set, meaning Asian travellers should plan for conventional visa applications for the foreseeable future.