Last Updated on April 21, 2023
This article was originally published on 2 December 2022 and was updated on 15 March 2023 and 20 April 2023 to reflect new information.
20 April 2023 Update: The European Parliament endorsed the agreement on short-stay visa freedom with Kosovo.
The visa exemption will enter into force once the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is in place, and no later than 2024.
Once the law comes into effect, individuals from Kosovo will have the ability to travel to the European Union (EU), and EU citizens will be able to travel to Kosovo without the need to obtain a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
This article was originally published on 2 December 2022 and was updated on 15 March 2023 to reflect new information.
15 March 2023 Update: The European Council approved short-term visa-free travel options for nationals of Kosovo. As a result, holders of a Kosovo passport will be permitted to enter and remain in the European Union (EU) for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
These measures will become effective on 1 January 2024 or at the implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), whichever comes first. According to the council, this decision will better align with the Western Balkan region’s visa regime.
Key Points
- The European Union has proposed to allow holders of Kosovo passports to enter the EU on a short-term basis for select activities without requiring a visa
Overview
The member states of the European Union (EU) approved a proposal that will introduce short-term visa-free travel to holders of passports issued by the authorities of Kosovo. If finalized, passport holders from Kosovo will be permitted to travel to the EU without a visa for a period of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
What are the Changes?
The EU has proposed measures that permit passport holders of Kosovo to enter the region visa-free for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period for limited activities. According to the announcement, the exemption will standardize visa regime measures for all the Western Balkan region.
Looking Ahead
The decision will be moved to the European Parliament, where final approval and modifications will be made. If approved, the exemption measures would apply at the beginning of the operation of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), or no later than 1 January 2024.
Continue to check the European Union’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
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