Guide to Residency in Kosovo

Obtaining a residency visa in Kosovo is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Kosovo gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the types of residency permits
  • Temporary Residence Permit: Valid for up to 1 year.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Valid for up to 5 years.
• Prepare necessary documents
  • Valid passport
  • Completed application form (available at the Foreigners Registration Centre or the Ministry of Interior website: http://mpb-ks.org/?language=en)
  • Two passport-sized photos
  • Proof of sufficient financial means
  • Health insurance
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Police clearance certificate from your country of origin
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Tax Administration of Kosovo offices (https://atk-ks.org/en/)
  • Submit the required documents:
    • Completed application form ( available at the Tax Administration offices)
    • Valid passport or ID card
    • Proof of residence
• Register with the police
  • Visit the Foreigners Registration Centre at the police station within 24 hours of arrival
  • Submit the required documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Completed registration form (available at the registration centre)
• Apply for the residency permit
  • Visit the Foreigners Registration Centre at the police station
  • Submit the required documents:
    • All documents prepared in step 2
    • Tax number certificate (obtained in step 3)
    • Registration certificate (obtained in step 4)
• Wait for processing
  • The processing time varies, but it usually takes up to 30 days.
• Collect your residency permit
  • Return to the Foreigners Registration Centre to collect your residency permit.
  • Bring your passport and the receipt obtained during the application submission.

Renewal of Residency Permit

Residency permits can be renewed by following the same procedure as the initial application. It is important to start the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Kosovo?

"In order to visit Kosovo, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee to the Kosovo Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country. In order to obtain residency in Kosovo, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee to the Kosovo Ministry of Internal Affairs. The application must also include a valid work permit, proof of sufficient funds, and a valid health insurance policy. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," commented one member living in Kosovo.