The European Union has postponed the operationalization of the ETIAS system to 2024, although it is expected to enter into force on November 1 of this year.
The entry into force of this system has become an important topic for the citizens of Kosovo, because the liberalization of visas for the citizens of Kosovo is connected with it.
However, in the decision on visas for Kosovo, it is stated that if the ETIAS system does not enter into force until November of this year, the liberalization of visas for Kosovo will enter into force on January 1, 2024.

On the ETIAS website, no reasons were given for the postponement of this decision.

It is precisely the possibility of blocking the visa process for Kosovo that has pushed some EU countries to insist on having a date for this process, even if there will be delays for ETIAS.

Several diplomatic sources have told Radio Free Europe that the position that “no later than January 1, 2024 does not mean that [liberalization] cannot happen earlier”.

Kosovo is the only country in the Western Balkans that does not enjoy free movement with the countries of the Schengen Area.

/k.s/