Montenegro is introducing visas starting November 1: the tourism sector fears a drop in overnight stays
The removal of the visa-free regime for citizens of Russia, Turkey and Belarus could affect Montenegro's tourism traffic, especially on the coast and in Podgorica. The decision is part of compliance with European Union rules, but tourism experts warn of possible consequences for the 2027 season.
Montenegro will introduce a new visa regime for citizens from several important source markets starting from 1 November 2026. According to the Government's decision, the visa requirement will cover Russia, Turkey, Belarus, China and Saudi Arabia, bringing Montenegro’s visa policy into line with European Union rules.
Although the authorities consider this decision necessary for the continuation of European integration, the tourism sector warns that restricting free entry could reduce demand and make it more difficult for hotels, travel agencies and other service providers to operate.
Russian, Turkish and Belarusian guests are an important part of tourism traffic
According to estimates by Petar Golubović, director of the Centre for Tourism Research and Development, tourists from Russia, Turkey and Belarus accounted for approximately 20 to 21% of tourist overnight stays in Montenegro last year.
Speaking to Montenegro’s public broadcaster, Golubović warned that even a moderate decline in demand from these markets would be difficult to offset with arrivals from other countries.
In one of the considered scenarios, the decline in the number of tourists from the affected markets would amount to 20 percent, which would have an impact on the overall tourism result. The estimates are based on approximately 16.5 million overnight stays expected in 2026.
Alignment with the EU has its own price in terms of tourism
The introduction of visas is linked to Chapter 24 of the negotiations, which covers justice, freedom and security. The Montenegrin government considers that harmonizing the visa regime is one of the obligations on the path towards membership in the European Union.
For tourism companies, however, the new rules bring practical challenges. Additional administrative procedures can affect the decision to travel, especially for individual bookings and shorter vacations.
The most exposed could be accommodation facilities that traditionally generate a large share of bookings from affected markets. The consequences could also be felt by local DMC agencies, travel agencies and transport providers.
Travel agencies will have to adjust their sales for 2027.
The changes come at a time when tourism companies are preparing programs and booking capacity for the next year.
It will be important for agencies and tour operators selling Montenegro to inform travelers in a timely manner about the entry conditions, the visa issuance process, and possible exceptions.
According to official information, certain travelers with valid Schengen, American, British, or Irish visas, or corresponding residence permits, may benefit from special entry rules for up to 30 days.
Montenegro’s tourism sector therefore faces a new challenge: retaining existing guests while developing alternative source markets that could offset a potential decline in demand.
