Montenegro

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 national emergency number.
• Dial 122 for municipal police.
• Dial 124 for municipal ambulance.
• Dial 080-111-111 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations 

They may take place in response to political or economic issues. Some are during politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Violent crime is rare.

• Robberies at ATMs increase during the May to September tourist season.
• Visitors should protect their PINs when using ATMs and track their card activity.
• Montenegrins are generally open and hospitable to visitors.  However, stay alert to anti-foreign views.
• Montenegro has a problem with domestic organized crime groups, but tourists or U.S. citizens are not normally targets.  However, there is always a small risk that a bystander could be hurt if they are near a targeted attack. If you witness a fight or a dangerous situation, do not try to intervene. Leave the area immediately if safe to do so.
• Police have limited ability to speak English. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in Montenegro. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• Taxi overcharging
• Fake accommodation listings
• Large restaurant bills

If using dating apps or websites in Montenegro: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid remote locations, like hotel rooms, private apartments, or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Do not bring a drone without authorization.

• Bringing a drone into Montenegro without prior written permission from the Ministry of Economy and Civil Aviation Agency results in immediate confiscation, storage fees, and potential fines.
• For information pertaining to the registration and use of drones in Montenegro please visit Civil Aviation Agency page.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

Rafting, hiking, skiing, and diving involve a higher risk of injury and death.

• Montenegro's mountains are rugged and remote. Weather can change quickly. There may be sudden temperature drops, heavy rain, and dangerous lightning.  
• Always stay on marked trails. Tell someone about your route before you leave and consider hiring a professional local guide.
• If you get hurt in a remote mountain or river canyon area, emergency medical help and rescue teams will take a very long time to reach you.

Three Peaks hike

• The Three Peaks hike in Montenegro's Prokletije National Park takes 5 to 7 hours and is a medium difficulty. The trail runs along the border with Albania.
• Many U.S. tourists choose this hike for adventure. Before you start, sign up with the National Park. This helps you stay safe.
• If you plan to cross into Albania or Kosovo through unofficial mountain paths, you need a special permit from the Montenegrin Border Police first. You can get this permit at the Border Police station in Plav.

Tara River safety

• In spring during April and May, the Tara River is very dangerous. The water moves extremely fast, is very high, and is freezing cold because of melting snow.
• Always make sure your tour company gives you a life jacket and helmet that fits well. Wear them the entire time.
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Montenegro seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Registration requirements

• All visitors must register within 24 hours of arrival.
• Hotels and registered businesses handle registration automatically.
• If you have private accommodation like Airbnbs, with friends or family, or property owners, you must self-register.
• You can check if your host has registered you at a local Tourist Information Center with your passport and the exact address.
• If you do not register, you may face heavy fines, detention, or may not be able to leave the country.

Alcohol and driving

• Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and will lead to immediate detention.

Drug laws

• It is illegal to bring marijuana, cannabis, or CBD products into Montenegro.
• For misdemeanor offenses, fines range from 200 to 1,700 USD.
• For criminal offenses, penalties range from 2 to 10 years in prison.
• Montenegro imposes severe penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs.
• It is illegal for tourists to carry firearms or weapons of any kind.

Photography restrictions

• It is strictly illegal to take pictures of military installations, police stations, military vehicles, or government personnel.
• Violators may have their camera or phone confiscated and face criminal charges.

Import limits

• Montenegro enforces strict import limits for arriving passengers. Allowances are per person and family pooling is prohibited.
• Import limits for air travelers include:
  • 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars/250g tobacco)
  • 1 liter of spirits over 22%
  • 4 liters of wine and 16 liters of beer
  • Personal goods up to €430 in value (€150 for those under 15)
• Travelers must declare cash amounts exceeding €10,000.
• Drones require prior government approval or will be confiscated.
• All specialized medications must be accompanied by an official doctor's prescription.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

• It is a crime to buy bootleg or pirated luxury goods.  
• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or must surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of lesbian or gay events in Montenegro.
• The law prohibits discrimination against individuals because of sexual orientation. However, lesbian and gay individuals face societal discrimination, exclusion, and harassment.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Montenegrin law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited in communication and information.
• Accessibility may be limited in older facilities. 
• Accessibility is common in some public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure.
• Acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  Discrimination against persons with disabilities is more visible in smaller towns in the country.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human Rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Montenegro Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for national emergency services
• Dial 124 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment, including defibrillators. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors in Montenegro do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Montenegro. If you need medical attention, you will have to pay for it, even if you go to a public healthcare facility.
• Most medical facilities accept major credit cards, though cash (euros) is recommended for smaller practices.
• Payment requirements depend on the medical provider. While smaller medical procedures generally do not require upfront payment, both private and public hospitals may require you to pay in advance for major surgeries or significant procedures.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Podgorica and other major cities. It may be much harder to find adequate health care in rural or mountainous areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics often lack basic resources and supplies.  If you are treated at a public facility, you may need to go to a privately-owned pharmacy to buy your own medicines and basic medical supplies. 
• Payment requirements depend on the medical provider.
• While smaller medical procedures generally do not require upfront payment, both private and public hospitals may require you to pay in advance for major surgeries or significant procedures.  
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Montenegro is developing a reputation in dental tourism and cosmetic treatments, including Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery. The prices are competitive compared to Western Europe.  

• If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States.  They don't follow the same rules.  Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Montenegro.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Montenegro

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Be sure to bring enough prescription medication (along with over-the-counter medications) to last the length of your entire stay.

• Check with the Montenegro Institute for Medicines and Medical Devices to ensure your specific medication is legal in Montenegro before you travel.
• If your medication contains narcotics or psychotropic substances—such as opioids, ADHD medications, or benzodiazepines – Montenegrin customs laws strictly limit you to a maximum 30-day supply. You must declare these medications to customs officials upon arrival and present a doctor's certificate that was issued within the last 90 days.
• For standard, non-controlled daily medications, you may bring up to a 6-month supply. 
• Montenegro does not allow the importation of medical marijuana or cannabis products (including many CBD oils), even with a U.S. prescription. Travelers should strictly avoid carrying cannabis products of any kind. Possession can lead to immediate confiscation, heavy fines, and severe criminal penalties, including prison time.
• Mailing medications to Montenegro is illegal. These shipments will be seized at customs and will not be released to the recipient.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Montenegro. 

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water in Podgorica is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. However, bottled water should be used during and after heavy rain.
• In some rural areas and coastal homes tap water may not be safe to drink.
• Bottled water and sealed beverages are widely available and safe. Always ensure the factory seal is unbroken before drinking.
• Fruits and vegetables are usually of good quality but need to be washed thoroughly.
• Purchase frozen fish only from well-established larger outlets.  Cook all the fish and seafood well.
• Only purchase meat from shops with a high volume of meat sales.  Cook all the meat and chicken well.  All ground meat should be cooked well. Never eat them rare or raw.
• Chickens may be surface contaminated with Salmonella and other bacteria that can cause disease.  Rinse thoroughly with fresh water at the time of preparation.
• Dairy products which are commercially manufactured, packaged and sold in supermarkets are safe.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

Many popular mountain towns and destinations in Montenegro, such as Žabljak and areas within Durmitor National Park, are at high altitude.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude towns like Žabljak.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Podgorica.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• Podgorica air quality is not good during the winter months. This is largely due to smog produced by the burning of low-grade coal, although automobile exhaust, cold air inversions and other factors also contribute to the pollution.
• Visit the Government of Montenegro website for information on air quality.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Roads in Montenegro are not up to U.S. standards. Roads near the coast are in better condition but are overcrowded during the summer. Drivers can be reckless and aggressive, and accidents are frequent.

Night driving

• Avoid driving at night outside of major cities. Most mountain and rural roads do not have streetlights, making it very hard to see sharp drop-offs, fallen rocks, or wandering animals.

Winter driving

• Winter driving (November through March) is highly dangerous in the northern part of the country. This is due to heavy snow, black ice, and frequent road closures.

Traffic signs and driver behavior

• Traffic signs are generally good on the main coastal and city roads but can be missing or confusing in rural areas.
• Local drivers frequently ignore speed limits and pass other cars dangerously.

Emergency assistance

• If you need help, dial national emergency number 112.
• Dial 122 for the municipal police.
• Dial 124 for municipal ambulance.
• Dial +382-20-234-467 for the Auto-Moto Association of Montenegro (AMSCG). It provides reliable roadside assistance and towing, but it may take them a long time to reach you in remote mountain areas.

Accident procedures

• If you are in a car accident, you must stop immediately.
• By law, you cannot move your vehicle until the police arrive and make an official report, even if it is blocking traffic.
• Passing drivers will often stop to help or direct traffic around the crash.

Recommended equipment

• By law, all rental and private cars must carry a reflective vest, a warning triangle, spare headlight bulbs, and a European-standard first aid kit.
• Because mountain roads are rough, it is highly recommended that you also carry a full-size spare tire, a jack, and extra windshield wiper fluid.

Traffic laws 

You must possess a valid U.S. driver's license to drive in Montenegro. Only hard copy licenses are accepted – photocopies and electronic or digital licenses will not be accepted. Authorities may give you a fine if you are unable to show a physical license.

Basic safety requirements

• The use of seat belts is mandatory.
• Cell phone usage while driving is prohibited.
• Vehicle lights must always be on.
• Children 5 years-old and under must use a safety seat attached to a vehicle safety belt.
• Vehicles must have snow tires and carry snow chains between November 15 and March 30.

Traffic rules and right of way

• Right turns on red lights are prohibited, unless a distinct green arrow is seen.
• At unmarked intersections, the right of way is always given to the vehicle entering from the right.
• Pedestrians crossing in designated crosswalks have the right of way. Drivers must stop.

Required vehicle equipment

• Each vehicle must have a reflective fluorescent vest and an emergency kit, as well as a European car accident report form. This form can be purchased in local automobile shops. Please note that the accident report form is in Montenegrin. If a car is rented from a Montenegrin rental car agency, these items should be provided.

Alcohol limits

• The blood alcohol limit in Montenegro is .03 percent, less than half the legal limit in the United States.

Accident procedures

• If you are involved in a traffic accident, you must stop immediately and turn on your hazard lights.  
• Do not move your vehicle, even if it is blocking traffic, until the police arrive and create an official report.  
• Moving your car before the police tell you to can result in heavy fines and legal issues.

Police checkpoints

• Police checkpoints are very common, especially during the summer.
• Traffic police with speed radars are located on many intercity road sections.
• You must always carry your physical passport, U.S. driver's license and all vehicle registration and insurance papers.  
• Police are generally professional. Requests for bribes are uncommon for U.S. tourists.

Fines and payments

• Fines for minor traffic violations can be paid immediately at the scene by credit or debit card.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Metered taxis are safe. However, foreigners are sometimes charged higher rates. 
• Always negotiate and agree on the price in advance, especially for intercity rides or trips to airports and tourist destinations.
• Taxis generally do not pick up passengers on the street and must be ordered by phone or SMS. You can also find available taxis at designated taxi stands in downtown areas and near major tourist spots.
• Local ride-sharing apps are available in major cities. 
• Uber and Lyft are not available in Montenegro. Local ride-sharing apps are generally safe and are similar to major international ride-share apps.  These apps connect you with officially licensed taxi drivers or private transfer companies rather than everyday people driving their personal cars.

Public and commercial transportation

• Montenegro has upgraded much of its public transportation infrastructure, though some older equipment remains in service.
• Visit the website of Montenegro’s national tourist office and Government of Montenegro, Transport Directorate Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Montenegro’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel  

Mariners and passengers planning to travel to Curaçao should check the following:   

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Flooding

• Heavy rains and melting snow frequently cause severe flooding, especially around Lake Skadar and major rivers. 
• Flooding is most common during the wet season from November to April. 
• Floodwater can quickly wash out roads, destroy bridges, and make travel dangerous.

Wildfires

• Can occur during the hot and dry summer months, particularly in July and August. Wildfires are a major threat.  
• Forest fires often break out in the rural mountains and along the coast.  These fires can spread rapidly, forcing sudden evacuations, closing highways, and causing dangerous air pollution.

Earthquakes

• Montenegro sits in an active earthquake zone. 
• Destructive earthquakes are rare. Small tremors happen throughout the year.  
• Earthquakes can happen at any time of the year without warning.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

U.S. citizen athletes

• U.S. citizen athletes should carefully review their contract before accepting a job offer or moving to Montenegro. Some professional athletes have reported contract disputes about treatment and living conditions in the past.  U.S. citizen-athletes should research the team, living arrangements, and the city or town where they will live before accepting an offer.

Embassies and consulates