Nebojša Arsić, head of the parallel university in North Mitrovica, announced that the procedure for collecting information on individuals needing residence registration has officially begun. This follows an agreement between the Government of Kosovo and the European Union regarding the implementation of the Foreigners’ Law.
According to Arsić, 2,780 students and 550 professors and academic staff currently do not have the necessary residence permits. So far, 414 employees and just over 2,400 students have submitted requests for registration. He emphasized that participation in this data collection is entirely voluntary.
“All employees and students have been informed that providing this information is exclusively voluntary. The volume of data we are collecting is far smaller than the information typically required when crossing the administrative line. The purpose of this collection is solely to secure the necessary documents for residence and employment for our staff, as well as for our students,” Arsić explained.
He added that the collected data will be transmitted to municipal authorities in accordance with the previously agreed arrangements, ensuring proper coordination with local institutions.
Arsić also highlighted ongoing cooperation with EU representatives to ensure the process proceeds smoothly.
“All relevant services have been informed that they must accept data that arrives at a later stage. We are working closely with our political representatives and with EU officials to ensure that this very important process continues without obstacles. Without resolving the status of our personnel and students, the university would face serious operational challenges,” Arsić said.
He further noted that administrative and bureaucratic obstacles may arise from other parties, potentially complicating the registration process and issuance of residence permits. However, he expressed confidence that continuous dialogue with international representatives will help address and remove any such challenges.
The initiative marks a significant step in implementing the Foreigners’ Law while safeguarding the rights of Kosovo Serb students and academic staff, balancing legal compliance with voluntary participation and institutional support.
