The long-awaited visa liberalization scheme for Kosovo nationals within the European Union came into effect on Monday, allowing them to travel to the Schengen zone without a visa.
The new regime, which started at midnight, permits Kosovars to enter the passport-free Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Considered a significant step in Pristina toward full recognition and an advancement of the country’s aspirations to join the European Union, the visa liberalization has been eagerly welcomed by Kosovo citizens.
Businessman Rushit Sopi, one of the beneficiaries of a government-organized quiz within a public awareness campaign, expressed relief and optimism before boarding a Pristina-Vienna flight.
Sopi, the 48-year-old owner of a company manufacturing doors and windows, highlighted the financial burden of obtaining visas, stating, “Each visa cost me 300 euros ($331). When I last changed my passport, I calculated that the EU visas alone in it cost me 2,500 euros.”
The implementation of the visa liberalization is anticipated to bring economic and cultural benefits to Kosovo, with European embassies in Pristina well-prepared for the surge in travel.
The German consulate, under strong pressure to issue visas in the past, welcomed the end of the visa era. German Ambassador Jorn Rohde, who issued the last visas to Kosovars a few days ago, encouraged locals to visit Germany, especially for the upcoming Euro football championship in the summer.
