Official Global Travel Advisory
Avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.
As foreign governments implement strict travel restrictions and as fewer international transportation options are available, you may have difficulty returning to Canada or may have to remain abroad for an indeterminate period.
If you are outside of Canada:
- you may have difficulty obtaining essential products and services
- you may face strict movement restrictions and quarantines
- your insurance may not cover your travel or medical expenses
- we may have limited capacity to offer you consular services.
If you are currently outside Canada or you are returning home, see COVID-19 safety and security advice for Canadians abroad.
If you need financial help to return to Canada, see COVID-19: Financial help for Canadians outside Canada.
Avoid all cruise ship travel due to COVID-19.
Montenegro Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada)
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Montenegro - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Montenegro.
Safety and security
Safety and security
Area bordering Kosovo and southern border
Exercise caution in the border area with Kosovo and avoid all areas of security force activities along the southern border. The only official entry/exit point into Kosovo is the Kula pass (Rožaje-Peć road).
Crime
The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs on public transportation and in other public places, particularly during the summer tourist season from May to September.
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Don’t show signs of affluence or carry large sums of money
Four-wheel-drive and luxury vehicles are targeted by car thieves more than other models.
- Avoid leaving luggage or valuables in the vehicle
Use secure parking facilities
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.
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.
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
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Most roads are poorly maintained and secondary roads are narrow. The Morača Canyon road is particularly dangerous due to poor road conditions and traffic congestion.
Drivers do not always follow safe driving practices.
Expect delays due to heavy traffic on major routes, particularly during the summer tourist season.
Roadside assistance is available by calling 19807.
Information on road conditions - Auto-moto Association of Montenegro
Public transportation
Public transportation systems are available in most cities and larger towns. A number of companies offer regular domestic and international bus services. Train service is also available; however, it is slow and often subject to delays
Use only officially marked taxis. To avoid being overcharged, obtain a price estimate in advance and ensure that the taxi driver is using the meter.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
Coronavirus disease
In an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions for their territory. Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions related to this situation. Consider even your transit points.
Restrictions imposed could include:
- Entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- Exit bans
- Quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, regardless of where you are arriving from
- Health screenings
- Border closures
- Airport closures
- Flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- Suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign diplomatic offices in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not 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 foreign diplomatic missions and consulates 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 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Montenegro.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
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 diplomatic mission 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 permitted without visa, you must apply for a temporary residence permit at least one week before the 90-day period expires. For more information, contact the Embassy of Montenegro.
Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
Work permits
If you need to apply for a work permit, you must provide criminal record check issued in Canada.
Registration
You must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival in Montenegro. Registration will normally be arranged by your hotel. If you are not staying in a hotel, registration must be organized by your host. Failure to register can result in fines and difficulties when departing.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - March 31, 2020
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
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.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* 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.
Food/Water
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
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.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
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
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
Good health care is limited in availability. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
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
Laws & 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.
Illegal activities
Photography
Photography of military or police installations, vehicles and personnel is prohibited, unless authorized by the Ministry of Defence.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Identification
You must carry photo identification, such as a passport, at all times and present it to local authorities upon request. You could be fined if you fail to do so.
Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated.
LGBTQ2 travellers
Montenegrin law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in country Montenegrin society.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
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
Driving
You should carry an international driving permit
More about the International Driving Permit
Vehicle insurance
Drivers of vehicles bearing foreign licence plates must be in possession of vehicle insurance.
Eco-tax
The Montenegrin government introduced an eco-tax for using road vehicles. Foreign nationals must pay the tax when entering Montenegro by car. The fee is determined according to the make and size of the vehicle. The eco-sticker obtained upon payment of the tax is valid for one year and must be displayed on the inside of the front windscreen in the upper right-hand corner.
Speed limits
Posted speed limits are strictly enforced. There have been incidents where police target vehicles with foreign plates, often demanding immediate cash payment for alleged traffic violations. If you are stopped, request a full explanation and, if an explanation is not forthcoming, ask permission to speak to the Embassy of Canada to Serbia in Belgrade.
Mandatory safety features
The use of headlights and seatbelts is mandatory at all times, as is the use of car seats for children under the age of 5.
All vehicles must have:
- high-visibility vests (to be carried in the passenger compartment, not the trunk) for the driver and any passenger who leaves the vehicle in case of breakdown
- a European car incident report form
- a spare bulb set
- first aid kit
- a warning triangle
Snow tires
Snow tires are required and snow chains must be carried in the car between November 15 and March 31.
Use of a cellular telephone
The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited.
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.
Damage on vehicle
If your vehicle is visibly damaged it must be certified by the authorities at the frontier when entering Montenegro. You will be issued with a certificate that must be produced when leaving the country.
Money
The currency of Montenegro is the euro (EUR).
You must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have at least €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller’s cheques or any other convertible assets.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Seismic activity
Montenegro is located in an active seismic zone.
Bush and forest fires
Bush and forest fires are common in the summer months in the coastal and central regions.
The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire, stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments. Always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel. Monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 122
- medical assistance: 124
- firefighters: 123
Consular assistance
There is no resident Canadian government office in Montenegro. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the Embassy of Canada to Serbia in Belgrade.
Belgrade - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Belgrade, Serbia and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
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, express 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.