The European Union has taken a significant step to make travel easier in the Western Balkans.
In a recent decision, the EU Council has removed visa requirements for holders of Serbian passports issued by the Serbian Coordination Directorate, a move that marks a new era in regional travel policies.
A long-awaited change
Since December 2009, most Serbian biometric passport holders have been able to travel to the Schengen Area without a visa.
However, one group remained excluded: those with passports issued by the Serbian Coordination Directorate in Belgrade.
This exclusion created a divide within the Serbian population, especially affecting Kosovo citizens holding these passports.
The European Commission recognized this issue and proposed a change in November 2023.
Their goal was to make sure that all citizens of the Western Balkan region could travel to the Schengen area without needing a visa.
From proposal to reality
The process from proposal to implementation was swift.
In April 2024, the European Parliament approved the decision to liberalize visas for the previously excluded group.
By July 22nd, 2024, the EU Council adopted the regulation, finalizing the process.
According to the Council’s press release:
“Today’s adoption by the Council concludes the legislative process. As soon as the regulation enters into force, which will happen on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the EU, it will become applicable in all EU member states.”
(Image courtesy of Freepik)
Mixed reactions
While the decision has been largely welcomed as a step toward regional equality, it has caused some controversy.
The government of Kosovo, in particular, expressed concerns.
They viewed the inclusion of these passport holders in visa liberalization as potentially problematic, arguing it might affect the integration of Kosovo Serbs and go against Kosovo’s territorial integrity.
What this means for travelers
For short-term visitors to the EU, this change makes travel easier.
Now, all Serbian passport holders, no matter where their passport was issued, can travel to the Schengen Area without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
They will also be eligible for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) starting in 2025, which will screen visa-free travelers before they enter the EU.
(Image courtesy of Sammy-Sander via Pixabay)
Reshaping EU immigration landscape
This decision shows the EU’s ongoing efforts to harmonize immigration policies across the bloc.
By removing disparities in visa requirements, the EU is promoting a more unified approach to border management and migration control.
The move also signals the EU’s commitment to building closer ties with the Western Balkans.
It could potentially encourage other countries in the region to align their policies more closely with EU standards, paving the way for further integration.
Looking ahead
While the full implications of this policy change are yet to unfold, one thing is clear: the EU's decision marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and unified approach to travel and immigration in the region.
As borders become more permeable, the hope is that cultural and economic exchanges will flourish, fostering greater understanding and cooperation across the European continent.