The European Commission has welcomed the signing of the decision on visa liberalization for Kosovo, which was made on Wednesday by the European Parliament. In a press release, it is said that visa-free travel will bring benefits to citizens from both sides and will further strengthen the European Union’s relations with Kosovo.

According to the European Commission, Kosovo has consistently fulfilled all criteria and conditions, proving commitment in this direction.

“Visa-free travel brings benefits to citizens from both sides, further strengthening EU relations with Kosovo. Kosovo has continuously fulfilled all the criteria and has shown its commitment”, the communiqué states.

Further, it becomes clear that free movement for Kosovo passport holders will become a reality on January 1, 2024.

“Visa-free travel for Kosovo passport holders will become a reality no later than January 1, 2024. After the agreement between the European Parliament and the Council, based on the proposal of the European Commission, Kosovo passport holders will be allowed to travel to European Union visa-free for a maximum stay of up to 90 days, in a period of 180 days,” the communiqué continues.

In this communication, the Commission says that in 2016 it had proposed to the European Parliament and the Council the possibility that the citizens of Kosovo could travel without visas.

In 2018, the communiqué states, the Commission assessed that Kosovo has met all the criteria.

The decision on visa liberalization for Kosovo was signed on Wednesday.

To enter into force, it is expected to be published in the official journal of the European Union.

/a.p/