Montenegro tightens preschool vaccine rules with fines

From 1 September 2024, Montenegro will require proof of mandatory MMR vaccination for children to attend public or private kindergartens, except where a permanent medical contraindication is certified by a qualified paediatrician.

The new provisions of the Law on Protection of the Population from Infectious Diseases impose fines of €300–2,000 on parents who refuse vaccination, €1,500–20,000 on kindergartens that admit unvaccinated children, €200–2,000 on doctors who issue improper certificates, and €1,500–20,000 on the medical institutions where they work. Only paediatricians employed by public health centres may issue the vaccination certificate; private‑sector documents will not be accepted.

Health officials highlight that MMR coverage among preschoolers remains low – roughly 50 % of children born between 2020 and 2024 have received the vaccine, and only 13 % of those born in 2024. Over 17 000 preschool‑age children have not received any MMR dose, raising concerns about a possible measles outbreak. No measles cases have been recorded since March 2025. The law is currently being challenged before the Constitutional Court of Montenegro over its compatibility with the constitution and the best‑interest principle for children.