Kosovo’s President, Vjosa Osmani, announced on Monday that Israel has agreed to lift visas for citizens of Kosovo, enabling them to travel freely to the Middle Eastern country for tourist purposes.

The Presidency of Kosovo stated in a communication that Osmani was informed of Israel’s decision by the Israeli ambassador to Pristina, Tamar Ziv, during a meeting on Monday.

This decision by Israel – which is the last country to have recognized Kosovo’s independence about three years ago, will come into effect after the signing of the agreement.

“In this regard, both relevant ministries will continue with the procedures for signing the agreement, and citizens will be notified as soon as the decision comes into effect. Through this agreement, citizens of Kosovo will be allowed visa-free travel to Israel for tourist purposes,” the statement said.

During the meeting, according to the communication, cooperation between the two states was also discussed, as well as intergovernmental agreements in various fields expected to be signed soon.

Since January 1, citizens of Kosovo with biometric passports have been able to travel freely to Schengen area countries, following the implementation of the visa liberalization decision.

On January 5, it was also clarified that they will be able to visit Spain, following an announcement by the Department for Migration and Internal Affairs of the European Commission that Spain already recognizes the ordinary Kosovar passport.

Visa liberalization allows citizens of Kosovo, with biometric passports, to stay for up to 90 days – within six months – in any of the 27 Schengen area member states.

Visa-free travel is for tourist visits, family matters, or similar issues. However, visa liberalization does not imply work permits or other benefits.

Kosovo was the last country in the Western Balkans, whose citizens could not move freely in the Schengen area until January 1 of this year.