Montenegro sets timeline for digital e-visa filings, but embassy applications remain for now

Thor
1 day ago
3 min read

Wide view of Sveti Stefan, Montenegro, showing the historic island resort, turquoise Adriatic Sea, and a curved sandy beach with rows of sun loungers.

Montenegro’s updated Law on Foreigners opens the door to online visa submissions through a new Visa Information System (VIS), but the country’s official guidance still says most visa applicants must apply in person at a diplomatic or consular mission.

For travelers who need a Montenegro visa, the practical impact is that nothing changes immediately. Plan for an embassy or consulate appointment now, and watch for the VIS rollout later in 2026 before you assume an e-visa application is available.

Sist oppdatert: 2026

What changed

Montenegro’s Parliament voted through amendments to the Law on Foreigners at the end of 2025, and the changes entered into force on January 17, 2026. The amendments introduce the possibility of electronic visa submission and issuance via the VIS once implementing by-laws are adopted.

A separate legal commentary on the changes says the future e-visa is expected to include a barcode, photograph, and personal data, and that online submissions should become possible after the secondary rules are in place, currently described as around August 2026.

What it means for travelers

Montenegro is not in the Schengen Area, but it has a defined visa regime and short-stay rules. Official information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs currently states that a foreigner submits a visa application in person, and that visas are issued through diplomatic and consular missions.

If you are tracking broader entry-rule changes across Europe, follow updates via GTI’s News hub.

Who is affected: Travelers whose nationality requires a Montenegro visa (short-stay visa C or long-stay visa D), plus some residence and work permit applicants who may later be able to file online.
From when: The law changes took effect January 17, 2026. Online filing is not described as operational yet in Montenegro’s current official visa guidance.
What to do now: Keep planning around an in-person application, and monitor official Ministry of Foreign Affairs pages for the VIS launch and instructions.

Rules, requirements, and exceptions

Montenegro’s official visa guidance says:

Where to apply: In person at a Montenegrin diplomatic or consular mission. Where Montenegro does not have representation, applications may be processed under arrangements involving other countries.
Short-stay visa C: For transit or stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period, with options for single or multiple entry.
Typical documents: Valid travel document, photo (35 x 45 mm), proof of purpose (such as a letter of guarantee or invitation), proof of means, proof of health insurance, and proof of consular fee payment.

For related updates on visa and entry changes, see GTI’s Visa articles.

Costs and fees

Montenegro’s official visa guidance notes several cost-related requirements for applicants:

Means of support: Applicants may need to show funds of at least EUR 50 per day for the requested stay.
Consular fee: Proof of payment is required, but the amount depends on the visa type and consular rules.

Practical planning tips

Do not assume “e-visa” is live yet: Montenegro’s official visa page still describes an in-person application process, even after the January 17, 2026 law changes.
Build in processing time: Official guidance says visa decisions are typically made within 10 days, with possible extensions when additional consideration or documents are needed.
Use official portals only: Lookalike domains are a known risk pattern for digital travel authorisations. If you are planning wider European travel in late 2026 and beyond, read GTI’s ETIAS Europe update and check the EU’s official ETIAS portal.
Keep your documentation consistent: Passport validity, insurance cover, and supporting letters should align with your travel dates and itinerary.

Background and context

The Law on Foreigners changes are framed as a broader modernisation of immigration administration, including future electronic submissions for visas and certain permits. Legal analysis of the amendments indicates implementing regulations are expected within 12 months of entry into force, which would place key operational steps during 2026.

What happens next Montenegro e-visa

Montenegro’s move to e-submission depends on implementing by-laws and the operational rollout of the Visa Information System. Until official government channels publish a live application portal and clear instructions, travelers who require a visa should plan on the current in-person process and re-check official pages close to their trip.