Immigration
A new EU regulation harmonises visa regime for the western balkans
Summary
On 22 July 2024 the European Council adopted a landmark regulation that harmonises the visa regime for the entire Western Balkans. This development represents a significant step toward enhancing regional integration and facilitating easier travel across Europe for citizens of the Western Balkans.
The detail
This regulation addresses a longstanding issue that has affected the region for years. Since December 2009, most citizens of the Western Balkans, including those from Serbia, have enjoyed visa-free access to the Schengen area with their biometric passports. However, a notable exception remained – holders of passports issued by the Serbian Coordination Directorate in Belgrade faced additional visa requirements, creating a divide within the region.
Recognizing the need for consistency, the European Commission proposed an amendment in November 2023 to resolve this disparity. The proposal aimed to extend visa-free travel to all Western Balkan citizens, ensuring equal treatment across the region. Following months of careful consideration, the European Council’s recent adoption of this regulation guarantees that all passport holders from the Western Balkans, regardless of the issuing authority, can now travel to the Schengen area without a visa.
Specific Goals and Expected Outcomes
Taking effect 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, this change simplifies entry requirements and enhances mobility throughout the region. This is particularly significant for neighbouring countries like Bulgaria, which is already part of the Schengen area for air and sea travel, with land borders expected to follow soon. The harmonisation of the visa regime will facilitate even smoother cross-border movement, further strengthening economic and social ties.
Contact us
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners Bulgaria point of contact: www.vialtopartners.com
Mina Kapsazova
Director
Ekaterina Arnaudova
Manager