In 2008, Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia, but until 2024, the country remained outside the EU visa-free regime. However, since January 2024, the situation has changed, and Kosovo citizens have been able to enter many EU member states without the need for a visa. Learn more about the details of the visa-free regime for Kosovo citizens to the EU

Since the beginning of 2024, Kosovo passport holders have been able to travel freely to EU countries without a visa for 90 days in any 180-day period. This not only facilitates the entry of Kosovo citizens to Europe, but also provides an opportunity for Europeans to travel to Kosovo without a visa. The agreement with Kosovo fits into the broader context of decisions on the Western Balkans, extending visa-free travel to the EU for all citizens of the region.

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If you are planning a trip to Kosovo, please use the guides from Visit World. These documents contain basic advice on visa applications, border crossing, employment, citizenship, and much more.

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Prerequisites for granting Kosovo visa-free travel to the EU

In July 2018, the European Commission confirmed that Kosovo had met all the standards set out in the Visa Liberalisation Dialogue. In April 2023, the proposal to grant visa-free travel to Kosovo was adopted by EU members.

Any initiative by the Commission to grant visa-free travel to a country goes through a legislative procedure involving the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. The assessment includes an analysis of the following criteria: irregular migration, national security, economic benefits (in particular in tourism and trade), external relations with the EU, human rights, and implications for regional coherence.

Visa abolition is usually followed by bilateral negotiations on a visa-free regime. Such steps help improve relations and contribute to the rapprochement between Kosovo and the EU.

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The editors of Visit World recommend using the Travel Guide for Kosovo for a comfortable and safe trip.

The guide is a detailed written document that contains basic advice on obtaining a visa, crossing the border, getting a job, citizenship, and much more. More details at the link.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Kosovo;

Legal advice on immigration in Kosovo;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Kosovo;

Medical insurance all over the Kosovo.

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