As part of the proposed changes, the EU is looking at more flexible travel arrangements for professionals who need to move frequently across Schengen countries.
The European Union has unveiled its first-ever visa policy strategy, signalling major changes in how non-EU travellers, professionals and workers may access the Schengen Area in the coming years.
One of the key proposals under discussion is allowing certain non-EU professionals to stay in Europe for longer than the current limit of 90 days within a 180-day period.
While the plan is still at an exploratory stage, it reflects the
EU’s broader effort to adapt its visa system to global competition, labour shortages and growing travel demand.
According to the European Commission, visa policy is no longer just about travel. It is also a strategic tool that helps the EU protect its security, strengthen its economy and build influence abroad.
The new strategy aims to balance two goals: safeguarding the
Schengen Area while enabling genuine travel that benefits Europe.
The Commission wants visa rules to become more unified across member states. The plan focuses on shared standards, coordinated decision-making and digital systems that allow applications to be processed faster and more securely.
The idea is to reduce fragmentation between countries and make
travel smoother for visitors who move across borders.
Visa-free travel remains central to the EU’s global approach. The Union uses visa waivers as leverage in its relations with partner countries. Nations seeking visa-free access must meet conditions related to rule of law, security cooperation and migration management. In return, they gain easier access to Europe and its markets.
The Schengen Area continues to be the world’s most visited region. Around 40 percent of global international travel crosses its external borders. Last year, EU member states issued more than 10 million visas to travellers from non visa-free countries.
Tourism plays a major role in the European
economy. It contributes about 10 percent of the EU’s GDP and supports roughly 23 million jobs. Cultural tourism alone accounts for around 40 percent of all tourism in the region, benefiting sectors beyond travel and hospitality.
The Commission says modern travellers expect faster and paperless visa procedures that remain secure. Simplifying access for tourists and business visitors is seen as key to keeping Europe competitive as a global destination.
As part of the proposed changes, the EU is looking at more flexible travel arrangements for professionals who need to move frequently across Schengen countries.
Touring
artists and performers who work in multiple EU states could benefit from easier mobility while on tour.
International athletes attending competitions across Europe may no longer need to apply for new visas repeatedly.
Experts and consultants involved in short-term projects or cross-border assignments could be allowed to stay longer than the usual 90-day limit.
Truck drivers and logistics workers, who are essential to supply chains, may see reduced bureaucracy when travelling for work.
The Commission says these reforms aim to make
travel safer and more convenient, while giving member states updated tools to process visa applications efficiently.
If implemented, the strategy could mark a significant shift in how Europe manages mobility, talent and tourism in a changing global landscape.
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