U.S. Embassy Pristina

U.S. Embassy Pristina
Rr. “4 Korriku” Nr. 25
10000 Pristina, Kosovë
Telephone: +(383) (38) 5959-3000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(383) (38) 5959-3000
Email: PristinaACS@state.gov

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Kosovo. They may need to show documents stating the purpose of their visit.

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for trips lasting up to 90 days within a six-month period.

For work, study, or visits over 90 days in six months, you must apply for a temporary residence permit once in Kosovo. Visit Pristina's Division for Foreigners, Visa, and Residence Permits for additional information before your arrival in Kosovo.

To apply for a temporary residence permit, you must provide:

1. Proof of local health insurance.
2. A police background check.

Visit our Criminal Records Checks page and Embassy Pristina’s local resources page for additional details. The U.S. Embassy cannot assist you with a visa background check at the airport or if Kosovo denies you entry.

Kosovo law requires U.S. citizens to show photo ID (original ID, a driver's license, or a passport) to authorized officials if asked.

Under Kosovo law, unaccompanied children under age 14 must provide notarized, written permission from both parents to leave the country. This applies to all nationalities. Please review our website for more information on children’s issues.

Travel to Serbia: To visit Serbia from Kosovo, you must have a valid, recent Serbian entry stamp and have entered Kosovo through Serbia. Serbia will bar U.S. citizens from entering Serbia if they entered Kosovo from any country except Serbia. This includes arrivals via Pristina's airport. To enter Serbia without a recent Serbian entry stamp, you will need to enter from another neighboring country.

Visit the Embassy of Kosovo website for the most current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State knows of no HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of Kosovo.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

For most visitors, Kosovo remains a safe country. Petty street crime is the most common safety concern for U.S. citizens. The Kosovo Police, with help from The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) and The Kosovo Force  KFOR, are responsible for safety in Kosovo. The U.S. Embassy has no law enforcement authority.

Be aware that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments take measures against possible terrorist attacks, but the public is still vulnerable to transnational terrorists. Exercise caution at festivals and public events. If you are in a crowd and the security conditions worsen, leave immediately. Remain aware of your surroundings and have a plan for escape should an emergency arise. Monitor instructions from the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

• U.S. Embassy personnel cannot travel to North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan. There is violence and tension in those areas. The U.S. government warns private U.S. citizens against visiting them. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens who encounter difficulties in these areas.
• Organized crime is present in Kosovo, and it can lead to violent clashes between rival groups. Most incidents are politically motivated and are not directed at tourists or foreigners.
• Sporting related events may lead to violent clashes or protests.
• Celebratory gunfire and fireworks are common during holidays. Stray bullets and fireworks have caused serious injuries and deaths. Stay inside when watching fireworks to avoid potential hazards and stray bullets.

U.S. citizens should avoid protests and large gatherings. Demonstrations occur frequently, particularly in Pristina, often with little or no notice. Demonstrations can cause serious traffic disruptions or violent incidents. 

For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Kosovo’s alert and messages page.

Crime: While violent crime against U.S. citizens is rare, be aware of your public profile. Avoid drawing attention to yourself as a U.S. citizen. Theft and petty street crimes occur, especially in tourist areas.

• Do not leave anything of value in plain view in unattended vehicles. Park your vehicles in a secure, off-street location.
• Street crime and home invasion occur with some frequency. Criminals target the vulnerable and the wealthy. They exploit low police presence, such as on holidays and at big events, to commit opportunistic crimes. Securely lock the windows and doors of your residence when not home and set your home alarm if you have one.
• Robberies, thefts, and burglaries often rise sharply during year-end holidays. Criminals target shoppers with cash and gifts, which they store in their cars. If possible, avoid carrying and/or displaying large amounts of cash or packages.
• To avoid assault, be cautious when traveling alone in taxis or minibuses after dark. Avoid being alone in isolated areas with unfamiliar people. Do not leave drinks unattended in bars and nightclubs.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

Victims of crime or sexual assault should first find a safe place and then immediately call the local police to report the incident. After that, contact the U.S. Embassy.

Report crimes to the local police by calling 192. In an emergency, after calling the local police, you can contact the U.S. Embassy at +383 (38) 5959-3000 (available 24/7). Police responsiveness to criminal reports varies greatly. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

Kosovo’s Victims’ Advocacy and Assistance Office (VAO) has a 24-hour, toll-free help line at 0800 11 112. The VAO provides information and guidance. It also allows the public and victims to report crimes. The VAO may help with medical exams, protection orders, or case updates.

Additional in-depth information regarding safety and security in Kosovo can be found at: Kosovo 2019 Crime and Safety Report - OSAC.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas. See Embassy Pristina’s Victims of Crime page.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim compensation programs in the U.S. and in Kosovo.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. and/or limited medical aid for the destitute.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost U.S. passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizens who are victims of domestic violence may reach out to the embassy for help.

Tourism: The tourism industry is not regulated. Inspections of equipment and facilities are rare. Hazardous areas may lack proper signage and staff lack proper training. Certification by the host government or recognized bodies may not exist. Injuries can be treated only in or near major cities. First responders usually can't reach areas outside major cities to provide urgent care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. 

See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Some laws are prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Notification of Arrest: If police or prison officials arrest you, ask them to notify the U.S. Embassy. See our webpage for further information. See Embassy Pristina’s arrest of a U.S. citizen page.

The Kosovo criminal justice system differs from U.S. standards. Lengthy detentions are common before and during judicial proceedings. The U.S. Embassy cannot speed up legal proceedings or secure releases. It also cannot help detained U.S. citizens with preferential treatment.

Special Circumstances:

• Occasionally power outages can occur in Kosovo. They may disrupt public services.
• Kosovo is a cash economy that uses the euro. Credit cards are becoming more common. ATMs are common in Kosovo. Users should take normal precautions to protect their PIN.
• Be careful with public internet cafes and open Wi-Fi. Your sensitive info, like passwords, can be stolen.
• Travelers must declare, at their port of entry, cash of 10,000 euros or more. Failure to comply may result in the confiscation of a percentage of the funds.

Natural Disaster Risk: Kosovo is in a seismically active area. It is prone to earthquakes. The best way to cope with an earthquake is to prepare in advance. For information on what to do before and during a natural disaster, see:

• U.S. Embassy Kosovo website.
• The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides info on disaster preparedness.
• U.S. Geological Survey provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity. 

Explosive Devices: Some areas in Kosovo still have unexploded ordnance and mines. Seek information through local authorities on marked and unmarked areas with leftover mines and unexploded ordnance. Report any suspicious item to the local authorities.

Climbing and Hiking: For outdoor activities, seek a local guide's advice. Stay in touch with family and friends. Provide your route and contact details to someone who is not traveling with you.

• Weather in Kosovo shifts suddenly, regardless of the season.
• Temperatures can drop overnight, and snow can fall unexpectedly.
• If in trouble, call the local emergency number at 112. Local authorities will help to the best of their ability.

Athletes: Some Kosovo sports clubs may not honor contracts. This has been reported by foreign players. Before signing a contract or relocating:

• Consult the Embassy's information page.
• Make sure you can afford your trip and return to the U.S. if problems arise.

Property and other disputes: The U.S. Government has no jurisdiction over property or private disputes in Kosovo.

• The U.S. Embassy cannot protect personal property and cannot take sides in legal disputes.
• The Government of Kosovo Judicial Council (KJC) website has info on its legal system.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country report 
• Human Rights Report – see country report
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Kosovo has no laws against same-sex relations or LGBTQI+ events. There are no legal barriers to organizing LGBTI events.

LGBTQI+ individuals have anti-discrimination protections. In real life, LGBTQI+ persons face discrimination. LGBTIQI+ travelers should be cautious if they choose to visit Kosovo. This is especially true for public displays of affection.

• Some police officers may not know the LGBTQI+ community's needs. LGBTQI+ travelers may find this a concern.

Please see our LGBTQI+ Travelers  page and the Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for further details.

Travelers Who Need Accessibility Assistance. Access for disabled people differs from those in United States. There are anti-discriminatory laws in place which apply to jobs, education, health care, and state services.

• Support for disabled persons is limited.
• The law mandates access for disabled persons to official buildings. However, it is not enforced, and such access is rare.
• Most buildings have no access for proper support. Public transportation for such persons is very limited.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Kosovo has a public hospital in Pristina and private clinics around the country. Medical facilities outside Pristina have limited services. Quality controls are lacking and services are very basic. Hygiene may be insufficient. Medical care is below U.S. or Western European standards.

• Kosovo has few ambulances. Ambulances will take you to the public hospital. Injured or seriously ill U.S. citizens may have to take paid transportation to reach the nearest major hospital. They may not be able to wait for ambulances.

The Embassy does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

See our page on Traveling with Prescription Medication. Check with Kosovo’s Ministry of Health for more information. Ensure your medication is legal in Kosovo. Carry your prescribed medication in original packaging along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Some prescription medication may not be available locally.
• Tap water is not potable or safe to drink. Make sure to cook food thoroughly to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.
• Air pollution is a severe problem in greater Pristina, especially in winter. Travelers with respiratory issues or asthma-like symptoms should consult a doctor before traveling.

Vaccinations: Check the CDC web page on vaccine recommendations. Kosovo has no vaccines for children recommended by the CDC.

If you are planning on traveling from Kosovo to Mecca please be aware of the MERS Corona Virus Advisory. Please see our Hajj Fact Sheet and the Saudi Ministry of Health website.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions in Kosovo differ from those in the United States. Some modern highways exist but most roads are still narrow and crowded. Mountain roads can be narrow and poorly marked and often lack guardrails. In bad weather, they quickly become dangerous. Dense fog can obscure visibility while driving.

• Driving in Kosovo is difficult for many reasons:unfamiliar traffic patterns and road signage; largely unobserved traffic laws (e.g., illegal left turns from the far-right lane, passing on blind curves, driving into oncoming lanes of traffic without yielding); stray livestock and horse-drawn carts; infrastructure problems and road construction/maintenance projects.
• Roads frequently flood and are impassible during rainy months. Mud and road slides occasionally shut down main throughways.
• Pedestrians must be very careful on sidewalks, when crossing streets, even at crosswalks. Drivers generally do not slow down or stop for pedestrians. For situational awareness, pedestrians are strongly advised not to use headphones.
• Residents often walk in the road at night. They wear dark clothes, making them hard to see. Additionally, stray dogs often lay or run in the roadway and are often difficult to see when driving.
• The U.S. Embassy recommends that you travel during daylight hours. Leave a travel itinerary and contact telephone numbers with someone before you go.

Traffic Laws: Drivers with a blood alcohol level higher than 0.05 percent are considered intoxicated and will be arrested and prosecuted.

• The use of seat belts and headlights is mandatory at all times.
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is hands-free.
• It is the law that all accidents, including minor fender-benders, be reported to police. If you are involved in any type of accident don’t move your vehicle. Wait until police arrive to take a full report. 
• When police impose a fine or penalty, they may legally confiscate your driver’s license and vehicle documents until the penalty is paid. The U.S. Embassy is not able to retrieve these documents.
• Review Kosovo traffic safety laws for information on driver’s licenses and imported or foreign-tagged vehicle registration requirements. 
• If your vehicle is registered outside of Kosovo, you will need to purchase liability insurance at the border. Kosovo is not a member of the European motor vehicle third party liability (“green card”) system.

Public Transportation: Taxis are an inexpensive, safe, and reliable means of transportation. Use established taxi companies that have metered taxies activated on departure. 

• Rail transportation is very limited and unreliable.
• The public bus service in Pristina has a wide coverage area, however it is often overcrowded.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety and Oversight: There are no direct commercial flights to the United States by carriers registered in Kosovo. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Kosovo’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Kosovo is not a member of ICAO. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.