Kosovo last in Balkans to get EU visa-free travel

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Kosovo has ushered in a new era of freedom and opportunity with the implementation of visa-free travel to the European Union. This landmark decision, effective from January 1, has ended the long-standing isolation of Kosovars, making it easier for them to visit family, explore new cultures, and pursue educational and business opportunities in the European Union.

The End of a Visa Regime

For years, Kosovo was the only European country, aside from Belarus and Russia, whose citizens required visas to enter the EU.

A Decade-long Struggle for Freedom of Movement

The achievement of visa liberalization is the culmination of nearly 12 years of negotiations and efforts by the Kosovo government. Mehdi Sejdiu, a political scientist and former head of the government’s working group on visa liberalization, highlights the importance of this development in ending the unjust isolation experienced by 1.8 million Kosovars.

Costs and Challenges of Visa Procurement

Before the change, the financial burden of obtaining a visa was significant. In addition to the €35 application fee, applicants often incurred additional costs for agency services, document translations, and insurance, totaling around €100. This was a substantial amount, particularly in a country where the average monthly income is only €400.

A Cautious Optimism for the Future

While there is excitement about the new travel freedoms, experts like Gazmend Klinaku, a former visa agency owner, caution against overly optimistic expectations. The allure of higher wages in Western Europe is strong, but life there is also more expensive. There are concerns that some Kosovars may use the visa liberalization for illegal work, as warned by Lirim Krasniqi of NGO Germin.

Brighter Horizons for Kosovars

Despite these concerns, the mood in Kosovo is optimistic. Young people like school-leaver Anduela Binakaj and student Driton Selfiaj express enthusiasm for the opportunities this change brings. The new visa-free regime opens doors for travel, education, and personal growth, without indicating a mass exodus from the country.

In conclusion, visa-free travel to the European Union marks a significant milestone for Kosovo. It offers its citizens a chance to explore new horizons, strengthen family bonds, and engage with the broader European community, fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity in the global landscape.

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