After a prolonged struggle, Kosovo citizens are on the brink of a landmark achievement in international travel. The European Parliament's recent approval, on April 18, signifies a significant breakthrough by endorsing the abolishment of visas for Kosovo, granting its citizens visa-free travel to Schengen Area countries without the need for prior visa applications. This pivotal decision is set to take effect by 2024.

Significant Developments

1. European Parliament's Confirmation:

Through an official statement, the European Parliament solidified its support for short-stay visa freedom for Kosovo citizens. This allows for seamless travel to the European Union for durations of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, eliminating the necessity of a visa.

2. Synchronization with ETIAS:

This visa exemption aligns with the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Once operational, ETIAS will facilitate hassle-free travel for Kosovo citizens within the Schengen Zone.

3. Unified Visa Framework for the Western Balkans:

This decision positions the entire Western Balkans region to embrace a standardized visa framework for the Schengen Zone, streamlining travel procedures for citizens of these nations.

Formalization and Signing

The official enactment of this historic decision is slated to occur in Strasbourg. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and the Swedish Presidency of the Council will sign the act into law. 

A joint press conference featuring Rapporteur Thijs Reuten and Kosovo's Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi will shed light on the significance and implications of this groundbreaking development.

Reactions and Expectations

Rapporteur Thijs Reuten emphasized the significance of this milestone, emphasizing the newfound freedom for Kosovo citizens to travel effortlessly, visit relatives, and conduct business within the European Union.

He underscored the broader impact, viewing this move as a cornerstone for strengthened collaboration between the European Union and Kosovo.

Historical Travel Restrictions for Kosovo Citizens

Despite initiating the visa liberalization process more than a decade ago and receiving confirmation from the European Commission in 2018 regarding Kosovo meeting all necessary conditions, citizens faced substantial limitations in international travel. Until this juncture, only 15 countries allowed visa-free entry based on the Kosovo passport.

Current Visa-Free Countries for Kosovars:

• Albania
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Cook Islands
• Dominica
• Ecuador
• Haiti
• Micronesia
• Montenegro
• Niue
• North Macedonia
• Serbia
• Sri Lanka
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Gambia
• Turkey

Passport Strength and Global Ranking

Kosovo passport holders currently require visas for entry into 152 countries, positioning Kosovo at the bottom (196th position) in the World Passport Index, which assesses passport strength across 199 countries.

Conclusion

The European Parliament's nod for visa-free access to the Schengen Area marks a significant turning point in Kosovo's international standing. As the implementation date approaches, there's growing anticipation for the positive impact this decision will have on travel, trade, and collaboration between Kosovo and the European Union, opening new avenues for growth and connectivity.