Controls on entry into the European Union will be tightened

The European Commission has approved the EU's first visa policy strategy, which changes the rules for entering the Schengen area, 34travel reports. 

According to representatives of the European Commission, the document aims to make the visa system more flexible so that it can respond more quickly to the growth of tourism, global instability and geopolitical risks.

The document envisages the strengthening of entry control:

- In 2026, they plan to update the visa-free regime and more carefully evaluate who can use it.

- They will tighten control over visa-free countries to prevent its abuse.

- Visa restrictions are seen as a tool to influence countries that do not cooperate with the EU in matters of security and return of migrants.

- If necessary, the issuing of visas to citizens of countries whose actions endanger e security of the European Union.

- Document security will be strengthened and penalties for visa and document falsification will be toughened.

At the same time, it is expected to simplify travel and work in the EU:

Digital procedures for submitting documents online will be introduced.

- From 2026, the ETIAS system of pre-departure checks for visa-free tourists will be fully operational.

-​​​​​​ Multiple entry visas are issued more frequently and for longer periods to individuals with a positive travel history.

- Digital systems will be better interoperable: by 2028, all EU databases will be integrated, allowing border guards to verify information faster and increase security without complicating legal travel.

The strategy also highlights EU plans to improve conditions for highly qualified specialists, students, scientists and startups. 

comersant.ge