If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, understanding roaming charges before you travel can save you from an unexpectedly high mobile phone bill. Although Montenegro is located in Europe and uses the euro as its currency, it is not currently part of the EU “Roam Like at Home” area. As a result, many travelers from EU countries are surprised to discover that their normal domestic mobile plan does not automatically include free roaming in Montenegro. Recent discussions are underway about integrating Montenegro into the EU roaming area, but this has not yet taken effect.
Quick answer: roaming in Montenegro can be expensive depending on your mobile operator. The easiest way to avoid unpredictable roaming fees is to use a prepaid Montenegro eSIM for mobile data while keeping your primary SIM active for calls and SMS if needed.
Top Montenegro eSIMs
Montenegro eSIM
Fixed
1 GB, 7 days€ 3.462 GB, 15 days€ 5.193 GB, 30 days€ 6.92Unlimited
Unlimited, 1 day€ 3.89Unlimited, 3 days€ 8.22Unlimited, 5 days€ 12.55
Balkans eSIM
Fixed
1 GB, 7 days€ 4.332 GB, 15 days€ 6.923 GB, 30 days€ 9.09Unlimited
Unlimited, 1 day€ 4.76Unlimited, 3 days€ 10.82Unlimited, 5 days€ 16.87Does EU Roaming Work in Montenegro?
No. Montenegro is currently outside the EU’s Roam Like at Home zone, meaning EU roaming rules generally do not apply. Your mobile operator may offer a special Montenegro roaming package, but this depends entirely on your provider and your plan.
Why Can Roaming Be Expensive?
Many travelers assume Montenegro is included because it is a popular European holiday destination. In reality, your phone may switch to international roaming as soon as you enter the country.
Common activities that can quickly consume mobile data include:
- Google Maps navigation.
- Instagram and TikTok.
- Video calls.
- Uploading travel photos.
- Streaming music.
- Watching YouTube.
- Cloud photo backups.
- Using your phone as a hotspot.
Typical Ways to Get Internet in Montenegro
| Option | Roaming Charges | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Home SIM Roaming | Depends on operator | Emergency use |
| Travel eSIM | No roaming surprises | Most tourists |
| Local SIM Card | No international roaming | Long stays |
| Hotel WiFi | Free | Indoor use |
How to Avoid Roaming Charges
The safest approach is to prepare before your trip.
- Purchase a Montenegro eSIM before departure.
- Install it while connected to WiFi.
- Select the eSIM for Mobile Data.
- Enable Data Roaming only on the eSIM.
- Disable Data Roaming on your primary SIM.
- Leave Network Selection on Automatic.
Can You Keep Your Home SIM?
Yes.
Most Dual SIM smartphones allow you to use:
- Your Montenegro eSIM for mobile data.
- Your regular SIM for calls.
- Your regular SIM for SMS verification codes.
- Your normal phone number throughout the trip.
Recommended Phone Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Mobile Data | Montenegro eSIM |
| Data Roaming (eSIM) | ON |
| Data Roaming (Primary SIM) | OFF |
| Network Selection | Automatic |
| Automatic Data Switching | OFF |
| APN | data.esim (if required) |
How Much Data Do Travelers Usually Need?
| Trip Length | Recommended Data |
|---|---|
| Weekend | 1–3 GB |
| One week | 5–10 GB |
| Two weeks | 10–20 GB |
| Remote work | 20 GB+ |
Where Will Mobile Internet Work?
- Kotor.
- Budva.
- Tivat.
- Podgorica.
- Herceg Novi.
- Bar.
- Ulcinj.
- Perast.
- Lake Skadar.
- Durmitor National Park.
Coverage is generally excellent in cities and coastal destinations, while remote mountain regions may have weaker reception.
Does WhatsApp Work?
Yes.
WhatsApp works normally using your eSIM’s mobile data or WiFi. Your account, contacts and phone number remain unchanged.
Common Roaming Mistakes
- Leaving Data Roaming enabled on your primary SIM.
- Using your home SIM for Mobile Data.
- Uploading photos over roaming.
- Streaming video without checking your roaming plan.
- Allowing cloud backups to run automatically.
What If You Already Started Roaming?
If you notice that your home SIM is using roaming data:
- Turn Mobile Data off immediately.
- Select your Montenegro eSIM for Mobile Data.
- Disable Data Roaming on the primary SIM.
- Restart your phone if necessary.
Related Montenegro Guides
- Montenegro eSIM
- Buy eSIM for Montenegro
- Mobile Internet Montenegro
- How to Get Internet in Montenegro
- Best Way to Get Internet in Montenegro
- Local SIM vs eSIM Montenegro
- APN Settings Montenegro eSIM
- eSIM Not Working Montenegro
FAQ
Is roaming free in Montenegro?
No. Montenegro is currently outside the EU Roam Like at Home area, so roaming charges may apply depending on your operator.
Can I use my EU SIM card?
Yes, but your provider may charge international roaming fees unless your plan specifically includes Montenegro.
How can I avoid roaming charges?
Using a prepaid Montenegro eSIM is one of the simplest ways to avoid unexpected roaming costs.
Should I disable Data Roaming on my main SIM?
Yes. This helps prevent accidental roaming charges while your eSIM handles mobile data.
Will WhatsApp still work?
Yes. WhatsApp continues working normally over your eSIM’s internet connection.
Will Montenegro join the EU roaming area?
The EU has begun the process of negotiating roaming integration with Montenegro, but until those agreements are completed and implemented, travelers should assume standard roaming charges may still apply.
Final Recommendation
Roaming charges in Montenegro can quickly become expensive if you rely on your home mobile plan. For most tourists, installing a Montenegro eSIM before departure provides predictable costs, reliable mobile internet and the convenience of keeping your regular SIM active throughout your trip.