Montenegro
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Latest updates: The Safety and security tab was updated – terrorism.
Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
Montenegro - Exercise normal security precautions
There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Montenegro. Exercise normal security precautions.
Safety and security
Safety and security
Area bordering Kosovo and southern border
You should 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. Pickpocketing may occur on public transportation and in other public places, particularly during the summer tourist season from May to September.
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
On November 21, 2016, the U.S. Department of State issued a Travel Alert for Europe, alerting U.S. citizens to the “heightened risk of terrorist attacks throughout Europe, particularly during the holiday season” and advising them to “exercise vigilance when attending large holiday events, visiting tourist sites, using public transportation, and frequenting places of worship, restaurants, hotels, etc.”
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur from time to time, especially in the vicinity of official buildings. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local and international media.
Road travel
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. Expect delays due to heavy traffic on major routes, particularly during the summer tourist season.
Drivers do not always follow safe driving practices.
For road conditions and safety information, consult Auto-moto Association of Montenegro, the national authority responsible for road safety.
Roadside assistance is available by calling 19807.
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
The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.
General safety information
Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times, particularly on public transportation and in large crowds or public markets. Do not show signs of affluence or carry large sums of money.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Montenegrin authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Montenegro based in Washington, D.C. (U.S.A.) for up-to-date information.
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.
Passport
Canadians must present a passport to visit Montenegro, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.
Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.
Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.
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
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 the Republic of Montenegro. If you need to apply for a work permit, you must provide criminal record check issued in Canada.
Children and travel
Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.
Yellow fever
See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.
Health
Health
- Measles: Global Update - July 28, 2016 00:00 EDT
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider 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 and is common in most parts of the world. Be sure your measles vaccination is up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
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.
| * 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. | |
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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, 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
Medical care is not up to Canadian standards. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers all medical expenses, including hospitalization abroad and medical evacuation, in case of illness or injury.
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 are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.
Identification
Carry adequate identification, such as your passport, at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost or seized.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Montenegro. If local authorities consider you a Montenegrin citizen, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services, thereby preventing Canadian consular officials from providing you with those services. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a Montenegrin passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.
Illegal activities
Photography of military or police installations, vehicles and personnel is prohibited, unless authorized by the Ministry of Defence.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Driving laws
An International Driving Permit is recommended. Always carry identification and vehicle registration papers.
Drivers of vehicles bearing foreign licence plates must be in possession of vehicle insurance.
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.
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.
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, as well as a European car incident report form, spare bulb set, first aid kit and a warning triangle.
Snow tires are required and snow chains must be carried in the car between November 15 and March 31.
The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited.
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.
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.
LGBT Travel
While not illegal, homosexuality is not socially tolerated. See Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender travel for more information.
Money
The currency of Montenegro is the euro (EUR).
Credit cards are widely accepted but smaller retailers continue to prefer cash payments. Automated banking machines are widely available throughout the country.
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
Montenegro is located in an active seismic zone.
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. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad. In the event of a large-scale emergency, every effort will be made to provide assistance. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
See Large-scale emergencies abroad for more information.