Kosovo has recently gained the privilege of visa-free access to the Schengen zone in Europe, which is the largest free-movement area in the world. This means that citizens of Kosovo can now travel to Schengen countries for tourism without needing a visa. Notably, Kosovo is the last non-European Union country in the western Balkans to be granted this exemption.
Under the new arrangement, Kosovo citizens can stay in the Schengen zone as tourists for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. This brings Kosovo in line with the travel regulations of other neighboring countries.
Croatia, having joined the European Union in 2013, became a part of the Schengen zone in 2023. Additionally, Romania and Bulgaria, EU members since 2007, are expected to gain partial entry into the Schengen zone in March.
It’s worth highlighting that in 2018, the European Commission reviewed and confirmed that Kosovo had met the necessary conditions related to addressing issues of illegal migration and corruption. These conditions were essential prerequisites for Kosovo’s inclusion in the Schengen zone.
Kosovo Schengen delays, Schengen approval causes, Kosovo visa delays, Schengen entry issues, Kosovo EU integration