The European Union signed in Brussels visa agreements with five Balkan countries, making it cheaper and easier for Albania, Bosnia, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia citizens to travel.

The deals are expected to come into force in January and the five countries also agreed to take back illegal immigrants who reach the EU through the Balkans, EUexpands reported.

EU Justice Commissioner Franco Frattini made clear the outcome of the deal depended on how effectively the Balkan nations kept their promise to deal with illegal migrants.

He also called for stricter border controls and the introduction of safe passports with biometric features.

Under the agreements, some, including students, business people and journalists, will find it easier to get visas, for which they will continue to pay about 35 euros rather than the standard cost which is almost double.

The Balkan countries have complained that strict EU visa rules have confined them to a ghetto at the heart of Europe.

The deal has been in discussions for a long time but strong resistance from countries like Germany made it difficult to be achieved and it may take even longer to achieve visa-free travel, BBC comments.

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