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Visa & Entry Information

Visa & Entry Information

Coastal Montenegro, Montenegro

Visa Types and Documentation

Many nationalities enter Montenegro visa-free for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This includes citizens of the USA, Canada, UK, EU member states, Australia, and New Zealand.

For other nationalities, a visa may be needed. Visa applications are typically made to a Montenegrin embassy or consulate in the applicant's country of residence. Types include tourist, business, and transit visas. Requirements vary by nationality. Check the Montenegrin Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for current information specific to your passport. Begin this process early if a visa is necessary.

Documents to Bring

  • Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your stay, with blank pages for stamps.
  • Proof of accommodation: Confirmation of your hotel booking or rental.
  • Proof of sufficient funds: Evidence to cover expenses during your stay.
  • Return or onward ticket: Proof of your planned exit from Montenegro.

Arrival Steps

No specific entry fees apply to tourists at the border. Upon arrival, travelers must register with the local police or a tourist organization within 24 hours of entering Montenegro. Hotels typically handle this registration for their guests. Registration failure can lead to fines or deportation. Confirm with your accommodation that they handle this for you.

No general special permits are needed for tourism in Budva or coastal Montenegro. Specific activities like national park visits may have entrance fees. These are usually paid at the park entrance.

Visa-Free Nations

90-day stays

Nations Included

USA, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, NZ.

What to know

Check specifics before departure.

Visa-Required Nations

Apply at embassy

Application Process

Apply to Montenegrin embassy/conculate.

Start Early

Commence the process early for processing time.

Local Registration

Mandatory for all visitors

Upon Arrival

Register with local police or tourist organization.

Hotel Assistance

Hotels often handle this for guests.

Visa Details

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your stay. It should have blank pages for stamps.

Onward Travel Proof

Proof of your planned exit from Montenegro, like a return or onward ticket, is necessary.

Visa Application Timeline

  • Consult Official Sources

    Check the Montenegrin Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for current information. Alternatively, services like IVisa or VisaHQ offer consumer application routes.

  • Begin Early

    If a visa is necessary, start the application process well in advance for processing time.

  • Required Documents

    Gather all necessary papers as specified by the embassy or consulate.

  • Interview (if applicable)

    Some visa types might come with an interview requirement.

  • Processing Times

    Allow ample time for processing to avoid travel delays.

Health Regulations

  • No specific health-related entry requirements currently apply for Montenegro.
  • Keep routine vaccinations current (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio, annual flu shot).
  • Consult a travel health professional for personalized advice before your trip.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive Travel insurance is highly recommended. It safeguards against unforeseen events and medical emergencies. Consider SafetyWing or Insubuy.

Budgeting & Costs

Plan your budget based on your travel style. Budva presents options for budget travelers, mid-range visitors, and those seeking luxury.

Currency and Payments

The official currency of Montenegro is the Euro (€).

Payment Methods

  • ATMs are widely available; carry some cash for smaller establishments.
  • Credit and debit cards find acceptance in most hotels and larger shops.
  • Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • ATM withdrawals generally bring better exchange rates than currency exchange offices.

Daily Spending Estimates

Budget estimates for different travel styles.

Daily Budgets

  • Budget Traveler: €40-€70 (hostel, street food, public transit).
  • Mid-Range Traveler: €70-€150 (mid-range hotel, casual dining, occasional taxi).
  • Luxury Traveler: €150+ (luxury hotel, fine dining, private transfers).
  • Price ranges for accommodation, meals, transport, and attractions are below.

Smart Spending Tips

Food Savings

  • Eat at local bakeries (pekara) and street food stalls.
  • Buy groceries from local markets or supermarkets for some meals.
  • Self-cater some meals; this markedly reduces food costs.
  • Enjoy free activities like walking through the Old Town.

Transport Savings

  • Use public buses for inter-city travel (e.g., to Kotor, Sveti Stefan). These are much cheaper than taxis.
  • Stay in guesthouses or private apartments with kitchenettes.
  • Round up the bill or leave small change for cafes/bars.
  • Tipping 5-10% is common but not strictly required in restaurants.

Tipping Etiquette

  • Restaurants: Leave 5-10% of the bill for good service, or round up.
  • Cafes/Bars: Round up the bill or leave small change.
  • Taxis: Round up the fare.
  • Tour guides: Consider €5-€10 per person for a good half-day or full-day tour.

Cost Overview

Typical prices for various services.

Accommodation Prices

  • Hostel dorm: €15-€30/night
  • Mid-range hotel/apartment: €40-€100/night (prices rise during peak season)
  • Luxury hotel: €100-€300+/night

Meal Costs

  • Coffee: €1.50-€3
  • Burek (pastry): €1.50-€3; Local fast food: €3-€7
  • Meal in a casual restaurant: €8-€20
  • Fine dining: €50+ per person

Currency Insight

Notify your bank of your travel plans. This avoids card issues during your trip.

Health & Safety Considerations

Prioritize your health and safety during your Budva trip. Familiarize yourself with health recommendations, emergency procedures, and local safety tips.

Vaccinations and Health Advice

  • Routine Vaccinations

    Ensure your routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio, annual flu shot) are current.

  • Recommended for Travelers

    Typical recommendations include Hepatitis A and Tetanus.

  • Professional Consultation

    Always consult a travel health professional for personalized advice before your trip. They assess individual health needs.

Access to Healthcare

Hospitals, Pharmacies, Emergency Numbers

Budva has a general hospital and several private clinics. For serious emergencies, patients might transfer to larger hospitals in Kotor or Podgorica, which have more specialized care.

Pharmacies are widely available in Budva. They typically open during business hours, with some offering extended hours for convenience.

Emergency Number: Dial 112 for General Emergency services (Police, Fire, Ambulance).

Common Health Concerns

  • 1
    Sunburn/Heatstroke

    Summers in Budva are hot. Use High SPF sunscreen and wear a Wide-brimmed hat. Stay hydrated with Bottled water, especially outdoors.

  • 2
    Gastrointestinal Issues

    Tap water is generally safe. Visitors with sensitive stomachs may prefer bottled water. Practice good food hygiene.

  • 3
    Minor Injuries

    Pack a basic travel first aid kit. Include items for cuts, scrapes, and blisters. These small injuries can disrupt your trip if not addressed.

Natural Hazards

Be aware of potential environmental risks.

Seismic Activity

  • Montenegro lies in an active seismic zone.
  • Minor tremors occur sometimes.
  • Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures.

Weather-Related Risks

  • Wildfires: Possible in hot, dry summers, especially in forested areas.
  • Flash Floods: Heavy rainfall, especially in autumn/winter, leads to localized flooding.
  • Follow local warnings.

Local Safety

Budva is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, some precautions are advised.

Petty Theft

Pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas, especially during peak season. Be notably watchful in the Old Town, busy beaches, and at the bus station.

Awareness

Remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid isolated areas.

Valuables

Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches or in public spaces.

Emergency Contacts

Numbers

  • General Emergency112
  • Police122
  • Fire Department123
  • Ambulance124

Additional Numbers

  • Roadside Assistance19807 (AMSCG)
  • Your Embassy/ConsulateLikely in Podgorica; have contact details.
  • Travel InsuranceWorld Nomads, SafetyWing
  • Flight CompensationAirHelp for delays/cancellations

Peace of Mind

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. This brings financial protection against unforeseen events.