Montenegro Expat Association Urges Visa Reinstatement for Returnees

The Expatriate Association of Montenegro in Turkey has expressed deep concern regarding a recent decision by the Montenegrin government to temporarily suspend the visa-free travel policy for Turkish citizens. This change means that members of the Montenegrin diaspora living in Turkey will now need to apply for visas to return to their ancestral homeland.

Adil Özuzun, the president of the Expatriate Association, stated that for many, Montenegro is not merely a country; it represents the home of their ancestors, a cherished legacy passed down through generations. The association’s statement emphasized their enduring connection to Montenegro, highlighting that “our roots, our memories, and our hearts are in Montenegro.”

Concerns Over New Visa Requirements

The recent suspension of the visa-free regime has raised significant concerns among the approximately 5,000 to 6,000 holders of Montenegrin expatriate cards living in Turkey. Özuzun articulated that this policy change affects more than just travel; it touches on family ties, cultural identity, and a profound connection to Montenegro.

He remarked, “This is not just a travel issue. It is about family, identity, and our deep bond with Montenegro.” The association views the Montenegrin expatriate cards as a formal recognition of their belonging to the Montenegrin community. The new visa requirements are seen as an obstacle to returning to the land of their forebears.

In a plea directed at Montenegrin authorities, Özuzun asked whether it is appropriate to complicate the return of those who are considered the children of Montenegro. “Our demand is not a privilege; it is an acknowledgment of our belonging and our natural right to return,” he stated.

A Call for Dialogue and Cooperation

The Expatriate Association is urging the Montenegrin government to allow holders of expatriate cards to enter the country without a visa, especially during the temporary visa regime. They are calling for urgent action to protect family and cultural ties, as well as for the establishment of an official dialogue mechanism between the two nations.

Özuzun underscored that expatriates are among Montenegro’s best ambassadors in Turkey. They promote Montenegro, attract investors, and preserve its culture and traditions. “We are a people of two homelands and one heart,” he said, reinforcing their commitment to fostering friendship and cooperation between Montenegro and Turkey.

The association insists that isolated incidents and misinterpretations should not undermine the friendly relations between the two countries. They argue that the bond shared by the people of Turkey and Montenegro should be strengthened rather than strained by policy changes.

In conclusion, the Expatriate Association of Montenegro in Turkey remains dedicated to advocating for the rights of expatriates and the preservation of their cultural heritage. Their call for a reconsideration of the visa policy reflects a desire to ensure that the ties between Montenegro and its diaspora remain strong and accessible.