Montenegro Sees Surge in ID Card Applications Ahead of Deadline

The Montenegro Ministry of Internal Affairs reported a significant rise in applications for personal identification cards, with 4,902 requests submitted in a single day. This surge in demand comes as the deadline for replacing the older generation of ID cards approaches on September 30, 2023.

Officials indicated that they will not extend this deadline, emphasizing compliance with the law regarding the replacement of third-generation ID cards. The ministry noted that public interest in obtaining new documents has noticeably increased as the deadline nears, resulting in long queues at service counters across the country.

Statistics show that in June alone, 10,093 applications were filed, while the first 25 days of September saw a staggering 36,041 requests. This uptick is attributed to the impending expiration of the older cards, which affects a significant number of citizens.

Electronic ID Cards Offer Enhanced Security and Convenience

The third-generation ID cards, introduced on March 30, 2023, are electronic public documents that provide enhanced security features. The issuance process remains unchanged, and citizens are exempt from administrative fees, although a €5 charge for the card template applies. Payments can be made at post offices throughout Montenegro.

These electronic ID cards allow citizens to complete various administrative tasks online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to government offices. Comprehensive information about the new process is available at local Ministry offices, via telephone at 020/225-341, or through email at [email protected].

As the deadline approaches, the Ministry has revealed that 82,046 citizens still need to replace their ID cards, with 486,551 replacements completed so far. The law stipulates fines ranging from €60 to €300 for those who fail to apply for a new ID card within the designated timeframe or do not replace expired cards within eight days of their invalidation.

Potential Challenges for Citizens After Deadline

Citizens who do not replace their ID cards by October 1, 2023, may encounter significant issues with regular banking services, including difficulties in signing new contracts or withdrawing funds.

Moreover, as people flock to service counters for ID card replacements, similar crowds are expected at the Montenegro Health Insurance Fund. Citizens wishing to use their new ID cards as health insurance cards must activate them in person, as the system does not yet support electronic activation through the e-Health platform.

To activate the ID card as a health insurance card, individuals must present their new document physically. The Fund’s officials confirmed that so far, 219,232 insured individuals have validated their new ID cards within the healthcare system.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely as the deadline looms, encouraging citizens to act promptly to avoid complications.