Visa liberalisation: European Commission says in case of misuse, recent move is suspension

Visa liberalisation became a reality.

This means removing the restriction of movement, but as a fair one it cannot be misused.

The European Commission envisions monitoring free movement, and according to the EC, liberalisation could be suspended if countries that do not have visa regimes in the European Union (in this case and Kosovo) violate the rules.

So she said in an answer to Clankosova.tv, Anita Hyper, spokesperson for the European Commission for Internal Affairs.

The EU's “Law envisions the possibility of suspending or ending exemptions from visas in specific circumstances. On October 18th 2023, the Commission proposed strengthening the visa suspension mechanism by expanding the bases for suspension and strengthening of visa-free countries. This proposal is now being considered by the European Council and Parliament”, Hippoper told Klakosova.tv.

It stated, however, that the suspension remains the last mechanism by the European Commission.

Hyper says this mechanism was introduced in 2013, aimed at stopping irregular migration growth.

“Mechanism was later revised in 2017, making it easier for member states to report the circumstances leading to a possible suspension and allowing the Commission to activate the suspension mechanism on its own initiative. The commission could promote the suspension mechanism if some requirements are not met as regards meeting visa liberalisation standards from countries that have passed a visa liberalisation dialogue”, she stressed.

EC Home Affairs spokeswoman said system ETIA has not yet entered office.

“The archive of the new login system and exit guide will be ready in autumn 2024, while the System will be ready ETIA will become operational in the spring of 2025”, Hyper said.

She added that reports of the suspension mechanism are part of the monitoring and annual obligation.

The “Commission has released reports within the visa suspension mechanism on an annual basis, since 2017”, the EC spokeswoman said, Clankosova.tv reported.

What are the travel rules within the Schengen area?

Visa-free travel carries with it certain rules, which Kosovo citizens must know.

Lifting visas means that they have the right to stay within the Schengen area, 90 days for six months. That right should serve you for tourist, family, business meetings, study programs, and so on.

They should have the address of accommodation, return ticket, and evidence of adequate financial means, health insurance is recommended but not binding.

Free movement does not even mean the right to work there, unless citizens have applied and are accepted a working visa, in a certain EU state.

But disrespecting these rules automatically implies fine or even a five - year ban on entry within Schengen.