Montenegro temporarily ends visa‑free travel for Turkish citizens

Montenegro announced on 27 October 2025 a temporary suspension of visa‑free entry for holders of Turkish passports, citing recent public order and security concerns. The measure will take effect the day after publication in the Official Gazette, and the government has pledged accelerated visa processing to reduce disruption. Turkey’s Foreign Ministry confirmed ongoing coordination with Montenegrin authorities and emphasized the protection of its citizens. Travelers should expect a short‑stay visa requirement to replace the previous 90‑day‑in‑180‑day visa‑free allowance until further notice.

Background

• Prior regime: Under a 2008 visa‑exemption arrangement, Turkish and Montenegrin citizens could enter each other’s territory without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180‑day period.
• Policy alignment: Montenegro has been progressively aligning its visa policy with EU standards and has recently adjusted several third‑country exemptions through cabinet regulations.

Current situation

• Government decision: On 27 October 2025 the Government of Montenegro adopted a regulation amending the Regulation on the Visa Regime that temporarily suspends the visa‑free regime for Turkish citizens. The suspension enters into force the day after publication in the Official Gazette. The government stated it will safeguard the status of roughly 14 000 Turkish citizens already in Montenegro and provide an accelerated visa procedure for planned trips, stays, or transits.
• Turkish response: Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it established prompt contact with Montenegrin counterparts over the weekend incidents and that necessary measures were requested and implemented to ensure the safety of Turkish citizens.

What changes for travelers

• Affected nationality: Holders of Turkish passports traveling to Montenegro for any purpose are now subject to a visa requirement until the government lifts the suspension.
• Previous allowance: The prior visa‑free stay of up to 90 days within any 180‑day period no longer applies during the suspension.
• Effective timing: The measure takes legal effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette of Montenegro. Travelers with imminent departures should verify whether publication has occurred before travel.

How to apply for a Montenegrin visa

• Where to apply: Visa applications are lodged with Montenegro’s diplomatic or consular missions. In Türkiye, apply at the Embassy of Montenegro in Ankara or the Consulate General in Istanbul. Some locations abroad also accept applications via VFS Global where available.
• Visa type: Short‑stay visa C for tourism, business, or visits allows stays up to 90 days within a 180‑day period when granted.
• Processing time: Decisions are generally made within 10 days, extendable to 30 days, and in exceptional cases up to 60 days.
• Passport validity and documents: The passport should be valid at least three months beyond the visa’s validity. Standard documentation includes a completed application, photo, purpose of stay proof, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds.
• eVisa or visa on arrival: Montenegro does not operate an eVisa system and generally does not issue visas on arrival. Applications are made through missions or designated VFS centers.

Traveler insights and practical tips

• Expect increased scrutiny at the border while the temporary measure is in force.
• Book appointments early at the Ankara Embassy or Istanbul Consulate General. Bring complete documentation to avoid delays.
• If you already hold legal residence in Montenegro, carry proof of status when traveling domestically or exiting and re‑entering.

Key facts at a glance

• Countries involved: Montenegro and Türkiye
• Policy change: Temporary suspension of visa‑free entry for Turkish citizens
• Announced: 27 October 2025
• Effective: Day after publication in Montenegro’s Official Gazette
• Previous allowance: Visa‑free up to 90 days in any 180‑day period
• Alternatives: Apply for short‑stay visa C through Montenegrin missions or VFS centers where available

Sources

• Government of Montenegro announcement on temporary suspension and effective timing: https://www.gov.me
• Government of Montenegro announcement, AMP view: https://www.gov.me
• Turkish MFA press release No. 214 of 27 October 2025: https://www.mfa.gov.tr
• Local coverage of government decision text for context: https://en.vijesti.me