The Republic of Kosovo is a relatively new country, having declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Even so, this nation presents significant opportunities for businesses that are planning to expand operations abroad. Kosovo’s extensive national parks also make the country a popular destination for tourists and expatriates from all around the world.
Types of Work Visas in Kosovo
The government in Kosovo has designated several countries, including the United States, visa-exempt. Foreign nationals from these countries are free to travel to Kosovo without a visa and stay there for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. Foreigners from other countries will need to obtain an entry visa from the nearest embassy or consulate of Kosovo.
Regardless of whether or not your employees are from a visa-exempt country, they’ll need to obtain a work permit as well as a temporary residence permit to live and work in Kosovo.
Requirements to Obtain Kosovo Work Visas
The general requirements to get a visa for Kosovo entrance include:
- A duly completed and signed application form
- A passport that is valid for at least six months after the applicant’s planned date of arrival in Kosovo
- A passport photo that was taken within the last month
- Evidence that the applicant has travel medical insurance coverage for their time in Kosovo
- Proof that the applicant has sufficient financial means to support themselves in Kosovo
- Evidence that the applicant has accommodations in Kosovo
- Proof of payment of the visa fee
Diplomatic officials may request additional documents on a case-by-case basis. To obtain a temporary residence permit, foreign nationals will need to provide proof of insurance and accommodations in Kosovo. They’ll also need to submit an official police background check from their country of residence.
The requirements to obtain a Kosovo work permit include:
- A temporary residence permit or valid visa
- Details regarding the applicant’s professional position and qualifications
- An employment contract with a business in Kosovo
- A certificate of business registration for the employer
Application Process
Foreign nationals who require a visa should begin the visa application process at least three months before they intend to travel to Kosovo. The first step is to get in touch with the embassy or consulate of Kosovo in their country of residence. The diplomatic officials there will provide a comprehensive, updated list of the documents that are required to obtain the necessary permits.
The applicant should then gather all relevant documents and complete the application form. Once the documents are prepared, the applicant will need to visit the embassy or consulate in person to submit the application. The applicant should wait in their country of residence until their visa is issued, after which they can travel to Kosovo and obtain permits to live and work there.
Foreign employees who do not require an entry visa can travel to Kosovo and apply for a work permit and temporary residence permit with the appropriate officials there.
Other Important Considerations
Foreign employees should be aware that Kosovo has three official languages: English, Serbian, and Albanian. Any documents that are required in support of their visa and permit applications must be translated into one of these languages.
It’s also important to note that Kosovo’s work permits are eligible for renewal. Employees should apply for renewal at least one month before their existing permit is set to expire.
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