Lawmakers in the European Parliament agreed on the long-awaited decision to liberalize visas for Kosovo citizens who will be able to move freely in the Schengen area.
"After years of blockade in the [European] Council, the European Parliament will finally approve visa liberalization for Europe's newest country. This step on Kosovo's path to the EU is long overdue," said MEP Tomas Waitz.
From January 1, 2024, citizens of Kosovo will be able to move to the countries of the Schengen area without visas for 90 days in every 180-day period.
"On January 1, 2024, our citizens will finally feel equal with other European peoples, to move freely in the continent they belong to, and for which they have contributed over the centuries. Now, moving to European countries is easier, our families are closer and the opportunities for advancement and cooperation are greater," said the president of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti said that "this is the merit of everyone, especially our citizens. So congratulations to everyone, because it's for everyone."
The legal act for visa liberalization is expected to be signed on Wednesday and the decision will enter into force as soon as it is published in the official gazette of the European Union.
