Bosnia and Herzegovina Citizens to Enter Kosovo with Biometric IDs Starting 2025

Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) citizens will be able to enter Kosovo using only their biometric ID cards starting January 1, 2025. This policy change eliminates the current passport requirement for BiH nationals traveling to Kosovo, marking a significant step in regional integration efforts.

The new regulation specifically requires biometric ID cards that comply with ICAO 9303 standards, containing embedded chips that store the holder’s personal information and biometric data. These secure documents include facial biometrics, fingerprints, and machine-readable zones that enable rapid digital verification while maintaining robust security protocols.

The policy modification is consistent with broader regional initiatives in the Balkans, particularly the Open Balkan initiative, which aims to establish free movement of people, goods, and services across participating nations. The change also mirrors developments in the European Union, where the EU Digital Identity Wallet program is setting new standards for cross-border digital identification.

The streamlined entry requirements are expected to significantly impact travel patterns between the two nations. Historical data from comparable policy changes in the region indicates that simplified documentation requirements typically correlate with increased cross-border movement for both tourism and business purposes, with previous implementations showing up to 30 percent increases in cross-border traffic within the first year.

The development follows established patterns of bilateral agreements in the Western Balkans, where countries have progressively reduced travel barriers over the past decade as part of the Berlin Process – a diplomatic initiative aimed at regional cooperation and EU integration. The biometric ID card requirement represents a balance between simplified travel procedures and modern security needs, leveraging advanced digital identity technologies while maintaining necessary verification standards.

Travelers should verify specific documentation requirements closer to the implementation date, as entry policies may be subject to modification. The relevant authorities will provide updated guidelines through official channels as the implementation date approaches.

Sources: VisaGuide

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December 13, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team