Switzerland lifts visas for Kosovars

Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, but is part of the Schengen Zone.

In April, the European Union decided that Kosovo citizens would be able to travel visa-free to the bloc's 27 member states, starting on January 1st of next year.

The Federal Council said through an announcement that Kosovo has met all requirements for visa removal, in terms of security, border controls and migration management.

All Kosovo citizens will be able to enter Switzerland with only biometric passports and can stay up to 90 days. The duration is also valid for the stay in the 27 EU states.

The Swiss Federal Council announced that if Kosovo citizens want to work in this state, they must equip with a working visa. According to the announcement, Kosovo citizens can work in Switzerland only if they are qualified professionals or if there are no equivalent workers in the Swiss labour market.

Switzerland recognises Kosovo's independence, and in this state there is a large Kosovo diaspora.