US raises warning for northern Kosovo: Travelers urged to reconsider visits

The US Department of State published an update to its travel advisory for Kosovo on August 25, urging US citizens to exercise increased caution, particularly in the northern areas of the country.

Kosovo remains classified as Level 2, meaning “Exercise Increased Caution.” Meanwhile, the northern part of the country has been placed at Level 3, with the recommendation “Reconsider Travel.” The advisory levels are: 1 = exercise normal precautions, 2 = exercise increased caution, 3 = reconsider travel, 4 = do not travel.

According to the US Department of State’s notice, tensions related to the political situation could escalate quickly and may cause transportation disruptions, as well as interruptions to other essential services.

US authorities also warn of the possibility of violence, including terrorist attacks and other terrorism-related activities in the Balkans, including Kosovo.

For North Mitrovica, Leposavić, Zubin Potok and Zvečan, the State Department advises US citizens to reconsider their travel plans due to the possibility of unrest.

The advisory assesses that ethnic tensions in these municipalities could create conditions for violent civil unrest to erupt.

According to the US Department of State, protests may begin without warning and could affect citizens’ movement, as well as the provision of other services.

The US emphasizes that the capacity of the US government to provide emergency assistance to its citizens in northern Kosovo is limited.

For this reason, travel by US government employees to North Mitrovica, Leposavić, Zubin Potok and Zvečan is restricted.

US citizens who choose to travel to Kosovo are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), stay away from protests and crowds, and have an emergency departure plan ready that does not rely on assistance from the US government.

Travelers are also asked to follow local media reports for the latest information and be prepared to change their travel plans.

The updated advisory, published on August 25, 2026, keeps Kosovo at the second risk level, while its northern region remains at the third level.