Orientation briefing in Kosovo

The Ottoman Empire took control of Kosovo in 1389 after defeating Serbian forces. Large numbers of Turks and Albanians moved to the region, and by the end of the 19th century, Albanians had replaced Serbs as the majority ethnic group in Kosovo. Serbia reacquired control of Kosovo during the First Balkan War of 1912, and after World War II, Kosovo became an autonomous province of Serbia in the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY). Increasing Albanian nationalism in the 1980s led to riots and calls for Kosovo's independence, but in 1989, Belgrade -- which has in turn served as the capital of Serbia and Yugoslavia -- revoked Kosovo's autonomous status. When the SFRY broke up in 1991, Kosovo Albanian leaders organized an independence referendum, and Belgrade's repressive response led to an insurgency. Kosovo remained part of Serbia, which joined with Montenegro to declare a new Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (FRY) in 1992.

In 1998, Belgrade launched a brutal counterinsurgency campaign, with some 800,000 ethnic Albanians expelled from their homes in Kosovo. After international mediation failed, a NATO military operation began in March 1999 and forced Belgrade to withdraw its forces from Kosovo. UN Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999) placed Kosovo under the temporary control of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). Negotiations in 2006-07 ended without agreement between Serbia and Kosovo, though the UN issued a comprehensive report that endorsed independence. On 17 February 2008, the Kosovo Assembly declared Kosovo independent. 

Serbia continues to reject Kosovo's independence, but the two countries began EU-facilitated discussions in 2013 to normalize relations, which resulted in several agreements. Additional agreements were reached in 2015 and 2023, but implementation remains incomplete. In 2022, Kosovo formally applied for membership in the EU, which is contingent on fulfillment of accession criteria, and the Council of Europe. Kosovo is also seeking UN and NATO memberships.

The political situation is generally stable, but there is a risk of protests in the northern municipalities of Zvečan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar. Protests in these areas have at times turned violent.

Find out more about the regions where FCDO advises against all but essential travel.

There are also occasional protests in Pristina. These are usually peaceful, but can lead to some disruption, including to traffic and public transport. Keep up to date with local developments and avoid any large crowds or demonstrations.

Large gatherings in Pristina and other urban centres

Large gatherings are taking place, including in Pristina in the evenings. This could lead to some disruption, including to traffic and public transport. Keep up to date with local developments, allow extra time for travel, and stay away from any large crowds or demonstrations.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Follow FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook
• Travel Aware on Instagram

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Kosovo.

Terrorism 

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.     

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Kosovo

Terrorist attacks in Kosovo cannot be ruled out.

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, and at large public gatherings and cultural events. Terrorists may target religious sites, including churches.

Political situation

The political situation is generally stable, but there is a risk of protests in the northern municipalities of Zvečan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar. Protests in these areas have at times turned violent.

Find out more about the regions where FCDO advises against all but essential travel.

There are also occasional protests in Pristina. These are usually peaceful, but can lead to some disruption, including to traffic and public transport. Keep up to date with local developments and avoid any large crowds or demonstrations.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Pickpockets operate in airports and on public transport. Criminals target people they think may be carrying large amounts of cash. Take precautions to protect yourself from street crime by:

• only travelling in pre-booked taxis
• not wearing expensive-looking jewellery or watches
• avoiding isolated areas especially at night or when walking alone

Bank card fraud

Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Use ATMs inside banks if possible, and check ATMs on the street for signs of tampering. Keep cards in sight when paying in shops and restaurants. Read more about how to avoid bank card fraud.

Organised crime

Isolated incidents of armed violence and vehicle explosions in major cities are usually linked to organised crime and do not target visitors. However there could be violent incidents in areas visited by foreign nationals.

Vehicle crime

Criminals may target 4-wheel-drive and luxury vehicles – they may rob the passengers or try to take the vehicle. Get advice from your accommodation or car hire company about more secure routes.    

Unexploded landmines and bombs

There is a risk you could encounter landmines or other unexploded weapons when travelling in some remoter parts of Kosovo. See Regional risks.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry your passport with you for identification and keep a copy separately in a safe place.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Kosovo have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Using cameras in secure areas

Taking photographs of military or police installations, personnel or vehicles may lead to difficulties with the authorities.

LGBT+ travellers

There are no laws against same-sex relations in Kosovo. However, Kosovo is still a conservative society and the LGBT+ scene is more tolerated than accepted.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Kosovo, see information on driving abroad and read the rules of the road in the RAC’s Kosovo guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Kosovo. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get a 1969 international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. You must carry vehicle registration and ownership documents.

Insurance requirements

You will need a locally valid insurance policy. European green card vehicle insurance is not valid. You should buy local third-party insurance at the border or from the nearest town at the earliest opportunity. Make sure you have enough cash in euros to pay for insurance.

Driving conditions

Road standards vary from fair to poor. Roads are particularly bad in rural areas and after bad weather. There is a risk of landslides and flooding. Avoid travelling at night if possible. The quality of fuel varies.

Border crossings

There are sometimes delays at the border crossings between Kosovo and North Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania, and Kosovo and Serbia. These are common around festive periods and during the summer months. Ensure you have food and water in case of delays.

Car hire

Many Serbian car hire firms will not allow you to drive their vehicles in Kosovo, and vice-versa, due to concerns about the security situation.

There have been some incidents where Serbian-registered hire cars have been targeted in more isolated areas of Kosovo.

Taxis

The condition of taxis and standard of driving vary. Taxis are readily available in Pristina. Registered taxi firms are the safest option and fares are regulated. These usually need to be ordered by phone, although some are introducing local apps. Operators usually speak a reasonable level of English. International ride-hailing apps are not available.

Taxis that approach you for a fare are often unofficial and can overcharge. Look for established taxi companies instead of a personally owned vehicle converted to a taxi.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Wildfires

Wildfires are possible in Kosovo, particularly during dry hot periods from April to October. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. To avoid starting wildfires:

• take care when visiting or driving through countryside
• make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished
• do not light fires or barbecues except in designated and marked areas
• do not leave any rubbish

If you see a wildfire, call the emergency services on 112. Follow any advice from the police or local authorities.

Earthquakes

Kosovo lies in a seismically active zone, and earth tremors are common. The last significant earthquake, of magnitude 4.5, happened in 2010 around 90km north of Pristina.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Flooding and landslides

Flooding and poor road conditions can be a problem after wet weather. There is a risk of landslides, particularly in hilly and mountainous regions.

Check local news reports as flooding or landslides may cause road blockages.

This section has safety advice for regions of Kosovo. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.  

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Northern Kosovo

Whilst there have been recurring tensions across northern Kosovo resulting in sporadic unrest, protests and security incidents, this has improved since 2024. However, northern Kosovo remains politically sensitive and conditions can change quickly.

Localised incidents, including protests and disruptions, can occur with little warning, particularly during periods of heightened political tension. Remain vigilant, monitor local media and stay away from demonstrations and large gatherings. 

Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Old landmines and unexploded bombs

Residual landmines and other unexploded bombs and weapons remain in Kosovo from the 1999 conflict. Roads and tracks have been cleared.

The main areas of risk are:

• along the border with Albania
• the Dulje Pass area in central Kosovo
• the mountainous region between Kosovo, Albania and Montenegro

Keep to the main roads when travelling in these areas. Most of the remaining dangerous areas are in high mountainous regions covered with dense vegetation. If you see something made of metal or anything suspicious, do not touch it, and report it immediately to the police or the nearest Kosovo Force (KFOR) patrol.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 94 from a landline or 194 from a mobile and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Kosovo
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Kosovo including biting insects and ticks.

Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever is endemic in Kosovo. Most cases occur in the region around Malisheva (central Kosovo), but during the summer months other rural areas of Kosovo can be affected.

Mosquito-borne diseases are present, including West Nile virus.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kosovo. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Air quality

High levels of air pollution can occur in Kosovo, particularly in Pristina. You can find further information and advice on air quality on the World Health Organization (WHO) website and check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index Website.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Kosovo

The public health system in Kosovo is poorly funded. Hospitals lack specialist equipment and there is a widespread shortage of medicines and other essentials. Many doctors and nurses lack training in modern techniques and practices.

Treatment is also available at private medical clinics, which are of better quality than the public health system and are relatively affordable. A small payment in cash is required for treatment in the public health system.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Kosovo where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.