Montenegro ends visa‑free agreements with Russia, Belarus and Turkey

The Government of Montenegro has terminated its visa‑free agreements with Russia, Belarus and Turkey as part of a drive to fully align its visa rules with those of the European Union.

Decision adopted on September 24, 2026

The cabinet adopted the measure on September 24, 2026, and recorded that Podgorica must open talks to conclude a new agreement with Turkey covering holders of diplomatic, service and special passports.

Earlier this year, on July 23, 2026, the government issued a decree amending the national visa regime. That decree stipulates that, starting November 1, 2026, nationals of the listed countries will require a visa for entry, transit through and stay in Montenegro.

Officials framed the step as an obligation arising from Montenegro's commitment to harmonize its external border and visa policy with the European Union. The move ends the previous visa‑free travel arrangements that had allowed citizens of the three countries to enter Montenegro without visas.

Podgorica said it would begin negotiations with Ankara specifically to preserve simplified travel for holders of official passports, while the broader requirement for visas will apply from the November 1, 2026 effective date announced in July.

Photo: press material from the event