Kosovo have been approved as the 55th member nation of UEFA after a close vote at Tuesday's congress.
Member federations voted 28-24 in favour of accepting the fledgling nation, while two votes were invalid.
The news means Kosovo's application to join FIFA - confirmed by world football's governing body last month - could now be fast-tracked with a view to allowing them to compete in the qualifying stages of the 2018 World Cup.
Football Federation of Kosovo is voted as UEFA's 55th member association. Congress LIVE: May 3, 2016
Kosovo have sought international recognition through sport ever since seceding from Serbia - who have strongly opposed their inclusion into UEFA - in 2008.
Fears have also been expressed in neighbouring nations that a number of players could attempt to change their international allegiance should Kosovo be ratified by both FIFA and UEFA.
Congratulations to for joining the it's a very special day for all of you!May 3, 2016
Manchester United winger Adnan Januzaj - who elected to play for Belgium - is of Kosovo descent, as are Switzerland stars Xherdan Shaqiri, Granit Xhaka and Valon Behrami, all three of whom have endorsed their membership campaign in the past.
Manchester City youngster Bersant Celina, a Norway youth international, declared his intention to play for Kosovo as a senior earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Florence Hardouin was elected as the first female member of UEFA's Executive Committee.
