International travel and COVID-19
Before travelling:
- be sure to get vaccinated, and complete any additional recommended doses, at least 14 days before your departure
- review the travel health notice for COVID-19 and International Travel
If you have not completed a COVID-19 vaccine series, you should continue to avoid non-essential travel to all destinations.
Useful links
Montenegro travel advice
Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)
Last updated: ET
On this page
- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Montenegro - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Montenegro.
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
COVID-19 preventative measures and restrictions are still in effect in some destinations.
These could include:
- curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
- mandatory mask use
- required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces
Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in effect.
Crime
Petty crime
The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly during the tourist season from May to September.
Thieves are particularly active on public transportation and other crowded public areas.
While you’re in Montenegro:
- ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
- don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
- avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
- avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
- avoid deserted streets at night
- pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas and when withdrawing cash from ATM
Vehicles
Car theft and break-ins may occur. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice.
- Familiarize yourself with your route before starting a trip
- Keep your windows and doors locked at all times
- Keep your belongings out of reach
- Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
- Never leave your belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
Violent crime
Organized crime-related violence occurs.
While violent incidents don’t typically involve foreigners or tourists, there’s a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly in border areas.
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
- use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Cybercrime
Cybercrime occurs in Montenegro. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
- Avoid making purchases on unsecured websites
- Use judgment when posting information on social media
- Be especially careful if you are meeting people you have met online
- Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.
Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:
- sporting events
- religious holidays
- public celebrations
- major political events, such as elections
Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations take place from time to time, especially in the vicinity of official buildings.
Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Soccer matches and sports events
Sports events sometimes lead to rowdy behaviour and violent incidents.
Be vigilant if you attend soccer matches and sports rallies.
Celebratory gunfire
Firing weapons to celebrate is common in Montenegro. It sometimes coincides with fireworks displays and may take place:
- on weddings
- on certain holidays and days of national observance
- following elections
- after soccer matches and sporting events
Injuries and deaths due to stray bullets do occur.
Avoid areas where celebratory fire is taking place.
Water activities
Swimming
Coastal waters can be dangerous.
In the fall and winter months, waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.
- Be cautious when walking on the shore
- Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
- Always take into account warning flags at beaches
- Don’t dive into unknown water, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
- Exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities
Recreational boating
If you are planning to go boating:
- know the navigation rules
- follow safe practices for all water activities such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, diving, swimming or fishing
- don’t overload your boat capacity
- carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
- be prepared for emergencies
Mountain activities
Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.
If you intend to go hiking or climbing:
- never do so alone
- consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- ensure that you’re properly equipped
- stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
- obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out
- avoid venturing off marked trails
Road safety
Most roads are poorly maintained and secondary roads are narrow. Heavy snow and icy roads may constitute a hazard during winter.
The Morača Canyon road is particularly dangerous due to poor road conditions and traffic congestion. Heavy traffic on major routes may also cause delays, particularly during the summer tourist season.
Drivers don’t always respect traffic law. They may be reckless.
Public transportation
Public transportation systems are available in most cities and larger towns.
Buses and trains
Buses and trains are not always well-maintained.
A number of companies offer domestic and international bus services.
Train service is also available; however, it is slow and often subject to delays.
Ferries
There are ferries connecting Montenegro with Italy. Weather conditions and strong winds may lead to cancellations or delays.
- Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
- Always reconfirm departure schedule before heading to the port
Taxis
Taxis are widely available. There are fixed prices to and from certain destination, such as the airports of Tivat and Podgorica.
- Use only officially marked taxis
- Confirm the fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:
- entry or exit bans
- quarantine
- mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
- suspensions or reductions of international transportation options
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling:
- verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
- consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
- monitor the media for the latest information
- reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator
The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travel restrictions and health requirements - United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada can’t intervene on your behalf if you don’t meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Montenegrin authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Honorary Consulates of Montenegro in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Montenegro.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Temporary residence permit
If you need to stay longer than the 90 days, you must apply for a temporary residence permit at least one week before the 90-day period expires.
Visas and entry requirements - Government of Montenegro.
Declaration of presence
You must report your presence in the country. Commercial accommodations will generally file the declaration on your behalf upon arrival.
If you’re staying in a non-commercial accommodation, you must file a declaration of presence with the nearest police station within 24 hours of your arrival.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 8 September, 2022
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 23 September, 2022
- Monkeypox : Advice for travellers - 23 September, 2022
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air..
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check the Entry/exit requirements section.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Southern Europe, food and water can also carry diseases like hepatitis A. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Southern Europe. When in doubt, remember…boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Southern Europe, certain insects carry and spread diseases like Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, leishmaniasis, Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and West Nile virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in Southern Europe, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Good health care is limited in availability.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons
Canada and Montenegro are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Montenegro to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Montenegrin authorities. This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.
Identification
Authorities may request to see your ID at any time.
- Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
- Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized
- Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long prison sentences and heavy fines.
Useful links
Photography
There are restrictions on photographing military or police installations, vehicles, and personnel.
- Do not photograph military installations or personnel even if no prohibition signs are visible
- Comply with all requests from local authorities
Drones
The recreational and commercial flying of drones is strictly regulated.
You must seek the permission from the Civil Aviation Agency to use a drone in Montenegro.
If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.
Safe drone operations - Montenegro Civil Aviation Agency
LGBTQ2 travellers
Montenegrin law does not criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.
However, LGBTQ2 travellers could be discriminated against or harassed based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Montenegro.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of Montenegro, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Montenegro.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Montenegro, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Montenegrin court.
If you are in this situation:
- act as quickly as you can
- contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Montenegro to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
- List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- Travelling with children
- The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Driving
You must carry an international driving permit
Vehicle insurance and damage
Drivers of vehicles bearing foreign licence plates must also be in possession of vehicle insurance.
If your vehicle is visibly damaged when entering Montenegro, you must obtain a certificate from the authorities at the frontier. You must show this certificate when leaving the country.
Mandatory safety features
All vehicles must have:
- high-visibility vests (to be carried in the passenger compartment, not in the trunk) for the driver and any passenger who leaves the vehicle in case of breakdown
- an European car incident report form
- a spare bulb set
- a first aid kit
- a warning triangle
- snow tires and snow chains between November 15 and March 31
Drinking and driving
Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03 percent.
A person visibly under the influence of alcohol may not travel on the front passenger seat.
Priority to the right
The “priority to the right” system is in effect in Montenegro.
Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections, even on secondary roads. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.
Familiarize yourself with the “priority to the right” system.
More about the International Driving Permit
Money
The currency of Montenegro is the euro (EUR).
You must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have more than €10,000, or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum includes:
- cash
- cheques
- money orders
- traveller’s cheques
- any other convertible assets
Natural disasters and climate
Seismic activity
Montenegro is located in an active seismic zone. Even minor earthquakes can cause damage.
Useful links
- Latest earthquakes - Hydrometeorological and Seismological Service of Montenegro
- Earthquakes - What to Do?
Wildfires
Forest and maquis fires may occur, particularly during the summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.
In case of a significant fire:
- stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
- monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
- follow the advice of local authorities
Flooding and landslides
Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides particularly during winter and spring.
The coastal belt may be particularly subject to landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.
- Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers and lakes, such as Morača, Bojana and Skadar lake
- Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Weather forecast - Hydrometeorological and Seismological Service of Montenegro
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- general emergencies: 112
- police: 122
- medical assistance: 124
- firefighters: 123
- roadside assistance and road closure information: 19807
Consular assistance
There is no Canadian government office in Montenegro. If you require consular assistance, contact the Embassy of Canada to Serbia in Belgrade.
Belgrade - Embassy of Canada
Montenegro, North Macedonia
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Serbia, in Belgrade, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.