Spain does not recognize the independence of Kosovo and therefore, citizens with Kosovan passports are not able to travel to Spain without a visa. This applies to all countries in the Schengen area, even though there are no border controls within this zone. The Spanish Foreign Minister has confirmed that this rule still stands and even with a German residence permit, citizens cannot enter Spain with a Kosovan passport. The only way for Kosovar nationals to visit Spain is by obtaining a Schengen visa. This restriction is due to Spain not recognizing Kosovo's travel documents as valid. Despite the visa liberalization in the Schengen area for Kosovo passports, Spain still does not allow Kosovan nationals to enter the country without a visa.