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| Kosovo Passport |
In a groundbreaking development, Besnik Bislimi, the Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo, has announced that citizens of Kosovo can now travel visa-free to Spain, as the official recognition of Kosovar passports by Madrid has been confirmed. This announcement comes as a positive step towards further integration and cooperation between Kosovo and European Union member states.
Visa-Free Travel to Spain:
Deputy Prime Minister Bislimi shared this uplifting news through a Facebook announcement, citing information from the European Union's Department of Migration and Internal Affairs. He expressed his joy over Spain officially recognizing Kosovar passports, making it possible for Kosovar citizens to travel freely to the Schengen Zone country without the need for a visa.
As of January 1, the visa liberalization for Kosovo came into effect, allowing citizens with biometric passports to travel visa-free to all 27 Schengen Zone member states for up to 90 days within six months. However, Spain had initially been excluded from this list due to its non-recognition of Kosovo's independence.
Spain and Recognition of Kosovo:
Spain is among the five European Union member states that do not formally recognize Kosovo's independence. The other countries in this category include Greece, Cyprus, Slovakia, and Romania. Despite this lack of official recognition, all these nations accept travel documents issued by Kosovar authorities.
Liberalization of Visas:
The liberalization of visas is a significant milestone for Kosovar citizens, providing them the opportunity for tourist visits, family matters, and other similar purposes within the Schengen Zone. It's important to note that visa liberalization does not grant the right to work or access additional benefits.
Kosovo's Journey to Visa-Free Travel:
Kosovo, the last country in the Western Balkans, achieved visa liberalization on January 1 of this year. This comes after years of fulfilling the necessary conditions for visa liberalization, as confirmed by the European Commission in 2018. Despite meeting these criteria, some EU member states had expressed reservations, delaying this momentous step.
Conclusion:
The visa-free travel to Spain marks a significant achievement for Kosovo and its citizens. This positive development not only facilitates easier travel for Kosovars but also signals a step towards broader recognition and acceptance on the international stage. As Kosovo continues its journey towards further integration with the European Union, such milestones contribute to fostering stronger diplomatic ties and opportunities for its people.