Kosovo celebrates EU visa-free travel, ending years of anticipation

The European Union’s visa liberalization initiative for Kosovo nationals officially took effect on Monday, marking a milestone for the country’s citizens. The new regulation, operational since midnight (2300 GMT Sunday), permits Kosovars to enter the Schengen zone without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

The implementation of this long-awaited reform is being hailed as a moment of great relief by the first batch of travelers, who expressed gratitude for the eased travel restrictions. Businessman Rushit Sopi, one of the fortunate winners in a government-organized quiz promoting public awareness of the scheme, expressed his satisfaction before boarding a Pristina-Vienna flight.

The visa-free travel is seen in Pristina as a crucial step towards gaining full recognition and fostering the aspirations of Kosovo, which declared independence in 2008, to join the European Union. The move is anticipated to positively impact various sectors, including business, as highlighted by Sopi, who previously incurred substantial costs for EU visas.

While the mood is generally celebratory, some Kosovars blame both Brussels and Pristina for the prolonged delay in lifting the visa regime. Local surveys reveal a mix of enthusiasm for this “historic day” and frustration over being the last among Western Balkan countries to receive the visa waiver.

The government, aware of potential challenges, has embarked on a campaign urging citizens not to misuse the newfound freedom of travel. Prime Minister Albin Kurti, actively leading the campaign, emphasized the significance of the day, calling it the removal of a great injustice and the attainment of a significant right.

However, concerns linger about potential abuse of the regime leading to EU restrictive measures, with Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi warning against actions that could harm the entire country. There are also fears of increased emigration and labor force shortages, with around 18 percent of private sector employees in Kosovo considering emigration, according to the Pristina-based Riinvest institute.

Despite these concerns, the lifting of visa restrictions is widely welcomed by Kosovars like Rushit Sopi, who is currently focused on the positive aspects of the decision, such as reuniting with family in Germany and Switzerland. The impact of this historic development will unfold in the coming months, shaping Kosovo’s relationship with the European Union.