Eligibility for ETIAS

  • Montenegro is one of the launch members of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) program.
  • In 2025, citizens of Montenegro will be eligible to apply for the ETIAS travel authorization through an online application system.
  • The online application process will make it more convenient and efficient for Montenegrin citizens to obtain their ETIAS.

Other ETIAS Requirements:

  • Montenegrin citizens who wish to travel to Europe can apply for the ETIAS travel authorization online.
  • The ETIAS is valid for travelers who arrive in Europe via air, sea, or overland.
  • To be eligible for the ETIAS, travelers must possess a machine readable e-passport.
  • The ETIAS is intended for short visits such as tourism, business, transit, or medical trips.
  • Children under the age of 18 and senior citizens over the age of 70 are eligible to receive their   ETIAS free of charge.

As of 2025, Montenegrin citizens traveling to participating European countries will be required to obtain an ETIAS in order to enter the region for short-term visits, which are defined as stays that are less than 90 days. The primary purposes for these visits could be for general tourism, business, transit or medical reasons. The ETIAS program was approved in 2016 and has been in development for the past four years.

The primary aim of the ETIAS program is to screen travelers from overseas, in response to the current increase in global terrorist activities. The program is designed to be integrated with existing immigration databases and security data across the participating European countries, in order to provide a seamless screening tool that is both efficient and effective. By using the ETIAS program, the European Union is taking an important step towards improving its ability to address the threats posed by terrorism and other security concerns.

It is important to note that the ETIAS program will be in force from 2025 onward, and all Montenegrin citizens traveling to participating European countries must apply for an ETIAS prior to their trip. This will ensure that they are able to enter the region without any issues and that their visit is secure and safe. The ETIAS program is intended to be a streamlined and efficient way of screening travelers, making the process of entering the EU easier and more secure for everyone involved.

Starting from 2025, citizens of Montenegro will be required to have an ETIAS authorization before they can board any means of transportation to Europe, including aircraft, sea carriers, and coach vehicles. This requirement applies to travelers who will be transiting in Europe en route to other destinations as well. However, if a Montenegrin citizen intends to stay in Europe for more than 90 days or for reasons other than those permitted under the ETIAS program, they will need to apply for a Schengen visa.

To obtain an ETIAS authorization, citizens of Montenegro are advised to complete the application process at least 96 hours before the date of departure. Further information regarding the ETIAS program and its requirements can be found on the website https://etias.co.uk/. There is also an assessment on the homepage that Montenegrin citizens can use to determine their eligibility for an ETIAS.

It is recommended that Montenegrin citizens review the ETIAS requirements page and the ETIAS FAQ’s before starting their application to ensure they have all the necessary information and documentation. This will help to avoid any delays or the risk of the ETIAS being refused. By completing the necessary steps and obtaining an ETIAS authorization, Montenegrin citizens can ensure that their trip to Europe will be smooth and stress-free.

From 2025, a requirement for obtaining an ETIAS authorization for travelers entering Europe will be that they must be full citizens of Montenegro. This means that individuals who hold a passport or travel document with a different status may not be eligible for an ETIAS and may need to apply for a full Schengen visitor visa instead.

For Montenegrin citizens, the process of obtaining an ETIAS is simple and efficient. The application can usually be processed and approved within a matter of minutes, and the authorization is sent by email in the form of a PDF document. There is no need to print out the authorization or to carry any physical copies of the document, as the ETIAS is stored electronically and linked to the passport details stored in the European immigration system.

Benefits of ETIAS:

  • The ETIAS authorization is valid for a period of 3 years from the date of issue, making it a convenient and long-lasting solution for travelers.
  • With the ETIAS authorization, travelers are able to make multiple entries into Europe, provided that each visit does not exceed a duration of 90 days.
  • The process of obtaining an ETIAS authorization is fast and efficient, with authorizations being delivered electronically by email in the form of a PDF document.
  • The ETIAS application can be completed on a desktop, tablet, or mobile device, making it convenient and accessible for travelers.

Advice for ETIAS Application:

  • To ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, it is advised that travelers submit their ETIAS application at least 96 hours prior to their departure date.
  • If an individual is denied for an ETIAS authorization, they still have the option of applying for a full visitor visa for Europe.
  • Although the ETIAS authorization provides a level of pre-screening for travelers, it is important to note that it does not guarantee entry into Europe. The final decision on whether to grant entry is made by the border security personnel of the European country of arrival.