EU Visa Rules Pose Challenges for Montenegro’s Tourism Sector

Revised Key Takeaways:

1. The European Commission has asked Montenegro to remove two countries from its visa-free regime list by the end of February.
2. In response, Montenegro is seeking alternative solutions to balance economic interests and EU accession requirements.
3. The Montenegrin government emphasizes that relaxed entry rules for tourists and investors are crucial for sustaining its tourism sector.

Montenegro is urging for alternative solutions after reports surfaced that the European Commission has requested the removal of two countries from its visa-free regime by the end of this month. However, the specific countries in question have not been disclosed.

The Montenegrin government expressed concerns that complying with these changes as part of its EU accession process could negatively impact its tourism sector. If required to impose stricter entry rules on key tourist source countries, Montenegro could face economic repercussions.

In an official statement on Wednesday, the government stressed that simplified entry requirements for tourists and investors are vital to the country’s economy, particularly since tourism contributes 26% of Montenegro’s GDP.

"Given the current global circumstances, access to new markets and easier arrival for tourists and investors are essential for sustaining Montenegro’s tourism industry. This is why Montenegro has established a visa-free regime with certain countries, prioritizing economic growth."
— Government of Montenegro

Montenegro Seeks Alternatives Amid EU Visa Policy Changes

According to See News, the European Commission's request to remove two countries from Montenegro’s visa-free list is linked to securing funding from the EU’s €6 billion ($6.3 billion) Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans (2024-2027).

Montenegro has emphasized the importance of a gradual transition to align with EU visa policies while safeguarding its economy. The government is working with the EU to find solutions that will meet both its national economic priorities and accession obligations.

"In cooperation with the EU, we will continue to seek the best solutions to balance our economic interests with the requirements of the accession process. The gradual removal of visa-free regimes for countries whose citizens need EU visas will be fully aligned by the time Montenegro joins the EU."
— Government of Montenegro

Russia, Azerbaijan & Türkiye: Key Contributors to Montenegro’s Economy

Among the countries currently enjoying visa-free entry to Montenegro are Russia, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye—all of which play significant roles in Montenegro’s tourism and investment landscape.

• Russia remains one of Montenegro’s largest sources of tourists.
• Azerbaijan is another key market, with many of its nationals choosing Montenegro as their preferred travel destination.
• Türkiye is Montenegro’s third-largest investor, contributing approximately 32,000 visitors annually. A growing number of Turkish nationals (11,465) have also established residency in Montenegro.

Montenegro now faces the challenge of balancing its economic reliance on these nations with the EU’s visa policy requirements while ensuring sustainable growth in its tourism and investment sectors.