In the picturesque landscape of Kosovo, where the rolling hills and rich cultural heritage intertwine, lies the story of Lorena, a determined young woman whose journey spans across continents, filled with hopes, challenges, and the pursuit of a better life.
Originally hailing from a small city in Kosovo, Lorena embarked on a daring adventure seeking opportunities in Germany.
Her decision to migrate was fueled by the aspiration for a brighter future, one she believed she could forge in a land known for its economic stability and opportunities.
Around 3 to 4 years ago, she left her small city in Kosovo to pursue opportunities in Germany. However, her path was fraught with challenges that proved discouraging.
“Germany has really difficult laws toward naturalization and residency,” she acknowledges.
To obtain a residence permit, she needed a job, yet her limited German language proficiency posed a significant barrier.
“I didn’t know much German, so this was a huge problem for me,” she admits.
Faced with this challenge, she spinned toward education, applying to numerous universities in hopes of securing a temporary residence permit granted to students completing degrees in Germany.
Balancing studies and a part-time job as a dishwasher became her new norm, a daunting challenge she tackled head-on.
“There were days when I felt like giving up,” she reflects. “But something within me urged me to keep pushing forward.”
However, her initial enthusiasm collided with the harsh realities of navigating the complexities of German laws and societal norms. Despite her relentless efforts to adapt and integrate, Lorena encountered numerous hurdles, from bureaucratic red tape to cultural barriers.
Ultimately, the difficulties she encountered led her to make the arduous decision to return to Kosovo.
The sense of belonging and familiarity drew her back to the embrace of her family and the community she grew up in. While her time abroad was marked by struggles, it was not in vain.
The outbreak of the pandemic added yet another layer of complexity to her journey.
“Balancing work and studies was incredibly demanding, and I couldn’t afford the cost of living in Germany after I lost my job due to Covid19,” she recalls, highlighting the financial strain that compounded her challenges.
Recently, there has been a significant development for Kosovars—the opportunity for visa-free travel to Schengen countries from January 1st, as reported from the European Commission.
This news has reignited Lorena’s aspirations for a life abroad. The prospect of revisiting her dreams, armed with newfound knowledge and experiences, now makes her consider anotherjourney, this time with a different perspective.
The decision to return to Germany or explore other Schengen countries is not an easy one for Lorena. Memories of past challenges linger, but so does her unwavering determination.
Germany has also made changes to its residency laws, as the draft first presented in May, shortens the required residency time for migrants to five years from eight years.
As Germany-Visa.org reports, a German residence permit allows you to stay in Germany for a more extended period than only 90 days. During that time, you can study, work, or engage in other activities in the country.
“I’m glad they are planning to ease some of them; it would have made a world of difference for many people like me who dream of calling Germany home.” – said Lorena.
For her, the idea of starting once again in a foreign land brings both excitement and apprehension. The newfound freedom to move within Schengen countries presents an opportunity for her to build a career, embrace different cultures, and create a life that blends the best of both worlds — Kosovo and abroad.
Above all, Lorena’s story epitomizes resilience, courage, and the unyielding spirit to pursue one’s aspirations despite adversities. Her journey symbolizes the trials and triumphs of many individuals who seek to carve out a better future for themselves.
Her story serves as an inspiration, illustrating that home is not merely a place on the map but a feeling of belonging and determination that resides within oneself.
“One thing I’ve come to understand,” she notes, “is that home isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling of belonging and determination that resides within oneself.”
Armed with hard-earned lessons, Lorena contemplates the future, carrying the resilience forged through hardships, guiding her towards a future filled with purpose and growth, wherever it may lead her.
Lana Birley
Freelance writer
*In order to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals involved, the names within this story have been altered. This alteration serves to protect the identities and personal details of those mentioned, ensuring their anonymity and respecting their right to privacy. The essence and narrative of the story remain unchanged.