Montenegro links visa rules for Azerbaijani citizens to EU accession

Montenegro has aligned its visa policy with European Union requirements, and President Jakov Milatović says the visa regime for citizens of Azerbaijan is part of that process. Speaking in Dublin before the start of the European Political Community (EPC) summit, he also confirmed that a visit to Azerbaijan is being arranged.

Key facts

• A visa regime applies to Azerbaijani citizens travelling to Montenegro
• Montenegro says it has fully aligned its visa policy with EU requirements
• The decision is linked to Montenegro's European Union accession process
• Milatović hopes the EU accession treaty could be signed in the first half of next year
• A Montenegrin presidential visit to Azerbaijan is being coordinated, possibly timed to the Baku Global Forum

Why does Montenegro require visas for Azerbaijani citizens?

Asked about the visa regime introduced for Azerbaijani citizens, Milatović explained that the decision is connected to Montenegro's process of joining the European Union. He said the country has fully aligned its visa policy with EU requirements and has fulfilled the relevant obligations.

The source does not state when the visa regime took effect, which type of visa is required, how much it costs or how Azerbaijani citizens should apply.

What else did the president say?

Milatović said a visit to Azerbaijan is on the agenda and that his administration and the administration of the president of Azerbaijan are discussing it. The two sides are coordinating the date, and he said he may travel to the Baku Global Forum, with the teams trying to align schedules so the visit can be combined with that event.

On EU accession, Milatović expressed hope that the accession treaty could be signed in the first half of next year. Much will depend on the timing of the elections, he said, but he considers such a scenario quite likely.

What this means for travellers

Azerbaijani citizens planning to travel to Montenegro should factor in a visa requirement and check the current application procedure before booking, as the source gives no details on visa type, fees or processing times. Milatović also invited Azerbaijani tourists to visit Montenegro, describing the country as an attractive destination for foreign guests and stressing the importance of tourism to its economy.

He further welcomed the European Political Community summit due to be held in Azerbaijan in 2028. No date has been announced for his planned visit to Azerbaijan.