Montenegro May Cancel Visa-Free Travel for Russian and Belarusian Citizens from October 1
According to local publication Dan, the Montenegrin government is considering introducing a visa regime for citizens of Russia and the Republic of Belarus starting October 1, 2026. The move is driven by the need to align the country's migration rules with European Union requirements, as Montenegro is an EU candidate and has committed to harmonizing its visa policy with European standards .
The Embassy of Montenegro has confirmed that the visa-free regime for Russians will be terminated by the end of the third quarter of 2026. Currently, Russian citizens can stay in Montenegro without a visa for up to 30 days. Under the new system, entry will require a visa, which is expected to be processed through VFS Global . Following Russia and Belarus, visas may gradually be introduced for Turkey, China, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain .
The abolition of the visa-free regime is another signal that short-term visa solutions are becoming increasingly unreliable. The only way to stay in Europe long-term is to obtain a residence permit in one of the EU countries.
IST Hungary offers several options for legal relocation to Hungary and other EU countries:
✅ Hungary's "Golden Visa" - A 10-year residence permit, renewable for another 10 years, for the entire family. Investment from €250,000 in accredited real estate funds. Only one personal visit required, processing from 21 days .
✅ Residence Permit through Company Establishment - For those running a real business. Residence permit for 3 years with renewal possible. Application processing in just 21 days (record terms in the EU).
✅ White Card (Digital Nomad) Residence Permit - For remote workers with an income from €3,000 per month. Processing in 1.5 months, residence permit for 1 year with renewal, right to travel freely within Schengen.