EU and Croatia may liberalize visa procedures for Albania

TIRANA, May 12 – Albania is expecting European Union member states to ease visa procedures, which may occur in Croatia, as well.
Albania has been asked to fulfill a list of requirements before the liberalization of the EU’s visa procedures takes place.
Visa liberalization was a main topic Prime Minister Sali Berisha discussed during his visit to EU headquarters last week.
The first step of the process is the creation of a document in which all EU member states can list their requirements for Albania. One of the primary conditions is for Albania to complete its document security program, including issuing biometrics passports. Other requirements include stepping up the fight against illegal migration and organized crime.
Albania has pledged to issue ID cards and biometric passports to its citizens beginning this year. The EU visa regime liberalization is part of the Union’s general initiative to ease restrictions for Western Balkan countries. Albanian citizens have enjoyed limited benefits since the beginning of the year as some categories of visitors, such as students, athletes, cultural workers and journalists may now take advantage of easier visa access. In addition, the visa fee was lowered from 60 to 35 Euros and visas have become valid for up to five years while allowing multiple entries.