The Ministry of Internal Affairs, following the start of the implementation of the Law on Foreigners and the Law on Vehicles, has announced that it has published a guidance document to inform foreign citizens about legal obligations during entry, residence and employment in the Republic of Kosovo.
The notification states that upon entering the Republic of Kosovo, the foreigner must: possess a valid travel document; possess a visa or residence permit, when required; respect the purpose and duration of stay; report the address of residence within three (3) days from the day of entry, at the border or at the nearest police station; have sufficient means of subsistence; respect the laws of the Republic of Kosovo; not be banned from entering and staying in the Republic of Kosovo; not pose a threat to state security, public order and health.
Support the TIME. Preserve the truth.
Professional journalism is in the public interest. Your support helps it remain independent and credible. Contribute too. 1 euro makes a difference.
Letter to the Reader — Why We're Asking for Your Support ContributeIn the case of short-term stay, it is stated that: The foreigner may stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa or with a visa when required. During this period, it is stated that work/employment is not permitted without a work permit and that any stay over 90 days requires an application for a residence permit.
"In the case of staying in the Republic of Kosovo for employment purposes: a temporary residence permit for work is required; a work permit is required; prior licensing is required in the case of applying for a work permit for a profession that requires a license; working without a permit is prohibited. The application for a work permit is made at the Employment Agency," the announcement states.
The Ministry has also provided clarifications regarding staying in Kosovo for other purposes.
"For study purposes, family reunification or other humanitarian reasons, scientific research and other circumstances provided for by law, it is required: to be provided with a temporary residence permit and to meet other legal criteria depending on the purpose of the stay. The application can be made at diplomatic/consular missions or at the DCAM, in cases where the foreigner has entered the Republic of Kosovo and does not need a visa," the announcement states.
When the legal provisions related to the entry, movement, residence and employment of foreigners are not complied with, the competent authorities are said to be able to take the measures determined by law, which may include but are not limited to: “cancellation of the residence permit, imposition of a fine, ordering departure and banning entry into the territory of the Republic of Kosovo”.
The law on foreigners and the law on vehicles have started to be implemented today (January 16).
But the incumbent government has again extended the information period for the implementation of some of their provisions. The implementation of these laws was last postponed from November to January 15.
The law on foreigners stipulates that all those who do not possess Kosovo documents will have to apply for a residence permit within 72 hours. Meanwhile, the law on vehicles specifies that all vehicles with foreign license plates cannot circulate in the country for more than three months or on the basis of authorization.
According to the Ministry, full implementation begins on March 15, 2026. "Any entry after this date that results in failure to comply with the rules listed within this guide will result in a ban on entry into the Republic of Kosovo," the announcement states.