Customs Regulations of Montenegro: Current Rules for 2025

Montenegro is a candidate country for the EU. Although it is not yet a member of the Union, local customs regulations are maximally harmonized with European standards. Nevertheless, border control (especially land borders) can be strict.

Below are clear instructions on the import and export of currency, alcohol, and electronics. The rules apply to all types of transport: airplane, ferry, car.

Important: Failure to comply with declaration rules may result in fines, confiscation of goods or money, as well as possible legal consequences.

Rules for Import and Export of Currency

The official currency of Montenegro is the euro (€). There are no restrictions on the import or export of currency for personal needs; however, there is a strict limit on the movement of cash without written documentation.

Limits and Declaration

Up to 10,000 euros (or the equivalent in another currency) — can be imported and exported freely, no declaration required.
More than 10,000 euros — mandatory written declaration.

Declaration applies not only to cash, but also to checks, promissory notes, and other means of payment. The declaration form can be obtained at the border or downloaded from the customs website.

If you are carrying an amount up to 10,000 euros but close to the threshold, we recommend having proof of the origin of funds (bank statement or cash withdrawal receipt) to avoid unnecessary questions.

Alcohol and Tobacco Products

Duty-free import of alcohol and tobacco is permitted only for persons over 17 years of age. Goods must be in original factory packaging and intended exclusively for personal consumption.

Alcohol Import Allowances

You may bring a combination of beverages not exceeding the following limits:

1 liter of strong alcohol (alcohol content over 22%);
OR 2 liters of alcohol up to 22% strength (liqueurs, fortified wines).

In addition to this (on top of strong or medium alcohol), it is permitted to import:

4 liters of still wine;
16 liters of beer.

Exceeding the limits is subject to duty (about 30–50% of the value) or leads to confiscation. Importing alcohol for commercial purposes without a license is prohibited.

Tobacco Import Allowances

For passengers over 17 years of age, duty-free import of one of the following is allowed:

200 cigarettes;
50 cigars;
250 grams of tobacco.

Equipment and Electronics

Personal gadgets (smartphone, laptop, tablet, camera) are not subject to duties if they show signs of use (used). If the equipment is new, in factory packaging, and in large quantities, this will raise suspicions of commercial import.

Value Limits for Duty-Free Import of Goods

If you are bringing goods as gifts or souvenirs (including new electronics), value limits apply:

430 euros — for entry by air or sea transport;
300 euros — for entry by land;
150 euros — for persons under 15 years of age.

Tip: If you are carrying expensive professional equipment (drones, video cameras) or new expensive electronics for personal use, declare them upon entry. This will save you from problems when leaving the country, when customs officers may require proof that the equipment was not purchased in Montenegro.

Other Restrictions and Prohibitions

Food products: Import of up to 5 kg of fresh fruits and vegetables (except potatoes) is permitted. Products of animal origin (meat, milk) are often subject to strict control or prohibition, especially during disease outbreaks in neighboring countries.
Prohibited items: Drugs, weapons (without permission), pornographic materials, counterfeit products.
Flora and fauna: Import/export of species protected by the CITES convention is prohibited without special certificates.

Always check the information before traveling, as rules may change during Montenegro’s EU integration process.

Customs Regulations of Montenegro: Current Rules for 2025