Kosovo Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors (under 18) traveling alone or with only one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel. This letter should include contact details and photocopies of the parents' passports. Children traveling in organized groups should have authorization from both parents and the group leader should carry all necessary documentation. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship. Same visa requirements apply to children as to adults based on nationality.

Dogs, cats, and ferrets can enter Kosovo with proper documentation. Required: EU Pet Passport or official veterinary certificate, microchip identification (ISO 11784/11785 compliant), valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel but not expired), and health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Puppies and kittens under 3 months without rabies vaccination may require special authorization. Certain dog breeds may face restrictions. Travelers should contact Kosovo's veterinary authorities in advance. Maximum of 5 pets per person for non-commercial travel. Commercial import requires additional permits.

Tourist stays are limited to 90 days within a 6-month period for visa-free travelers. For stays beyond this period, you must apply for a temporary residence permit before your authorized stay expires. Applications are submitted to the Civil Registration Agency. Required documents include: valid passport, completed application form, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient financial means, health insurance, background check from home country, and purpose of stay documentation (work contract, enrollment letter, etc.). Processing takes 4-8 weeks. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and entry bans. If planning to work, study, or establish residency, contact Kosovo immigration authorities well in advance.

Kosovo and Serbia have a complex political relationship. Serbian entry/exit stamps in your passport will not prevent entry to Kosovo. However, Kosovo entry stamps may cause difficulties when entering Serbia, as Serbia does not recognize Kosovo's independence. If you plan to visit both countries, consider entering Serbia first, or request Kosovo immigration not to stamp your passport (though this cannot be guaranteed). Some travelers use separate passports for the two countries if they hold dual citizenship. Land borders between Kosovo and Serbia are open and functional.

Business visitors entering visa-free can engage in meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot undertake paid employment. For business stays, carry: invitation letter from Kosovo company, proof of business registration of inviting company, details of business activities, and proof of accommodation. Business visas (if required based on nationality) allow for business activities but not employment. Work permits are required for any paid employment and must be obtained before arrival. Business travelers may be asked to show these documents at immigration.

Students accepted to Kosovo educational institutions need to apply for a student residence permit after arrival on a tourist entry (if visa-free) or obtain a student visa before arrival (if visa required). Required: acceptance letter from accredited institution, proof of enrollment, proof of financial means to support studies, accommodation proof, and health insurance. Researchers may need special authorization depending on their field. Apply for residence permit at Civil Registration Agency within the initial authorized stay period. Academic institutions can assist with the process.