Turkey Nationals Regain Visa-Free Access to Montenegro

The Government of Montenegro has officially restored visa-free travel for Turkish citizens after a temporary suspension that drew criticism from officials and raised concerns about bilateral relations. Turkish nationals can now enter Montenegro without a visa. However, the allowed stay has been reduced from 90 days to 30 days.

In an official statement, the government said the decision was approved without a formal cabinet session. Instead, it was adopted through consent by a majority of cabinet members. Authorities said the change was made by amending regulations linked to the visa regime.

The government said the shorter stay period is meant to reduce the risk of irregular migration. It also said the new limit supports Montenegro’s goal of aligning its visa policy with European Union rules. Officials added that security checks and migration screening have been strengthened, and coordination with Turkish authorities has improved.

Montenegro said it still has the option to reintroduce visa requirements if security assessments point to new risks. The government said it is applying tighter visa and migration controls to strengthen oversight of foreign nationals entering and staying in the country.

The government said further adjustments involving third countries, including Azerbaijan, are expected to be completed by Jan. 15. It also said the Interior Ministry and the police administration carried out steps directed by the National Security Council in response to migration challenges.

The visa suspension was introduced after an attack in Podgorica that some local reports initially linked to Turkish citizens. A later investigation found they were not involved. The High Court in Podgorica said on Oct. 31 that two suspects arrested in connection with the Oct. 26 attack were released after it was confirmed they had no connection to the incident and were not at the scene.

The earlier visa move triggered pushback from senior figures in Montenegro. President Jakov Milatovic said in November that the decision was rushed and harmful to the economy. He also warned against blaming an entire nation for a single incident.

Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimovic later traveled to Istanbul for meetings with Turkish officials, where he pointed to the importance of maintaining stable relations between Podgorica and Ankara.