Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Kosovo are worried about the European Commission’s plan to allow visa-free access to the EU for Kosovo citizens holding Serbian passports. They fear it might hinder the integration progress of Serbian citizens in Kosovo. NGOs highlight a positive trend of Serbian citizens seeking Kosovo documents, suggesting a return to normalcy in northern Kosovo.
The European Commission aims to amend Regulation (EU) 2018/1806, excluding holders of Serbian passports from the Serbian Coordination Directorate from visa requirements. The EC argues there’s no reason why these passport holders in Kosovo shouldn’t travel visa-free to the EU’s Schengen Area.
In April 2023, the EC announced visa-free travel for Kosovo citizens to EU countries from January 1, 2024, but only for holders of Kosovo passports. NGOs argue this discriminates against those with Serbian passports in Kosovo, urging the EC to reconsider for equal visa-free travel rights for all Kosovo citizens.
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