EuroWire, BRUSSELS, Feb. 6, 2026, The European Commission has confirmed it is examining possible adjustments to the European Union’s short-stay visa framework that could allow certain non-EU professionals to remain in the bloc for periods exceeding the current 90-day limit within any 180-day timeframe. The review forms part of an ongoing assessment of EU mobility and visa rules in response to evolving labour market needs and cross-border economic activity. Under existing Schengen regulations, most non-EU nationals are permitted to stay in the EU for up to 90 days in any six-month period without obtaining a long-term visa or residence permit.
The Commission said this system presents operational challenges for specific professional groups whose work requires repeated or extended presence across several EU member states. The assessment focuses on defined occupational categories rather than broad changes to the overall visa regime. In a policy document shared with member states, the Commission identified six professional categories that could potentially qualify for longer stays or more flexible visa arrangements. These include touring artists engaged in performances across multiple countries, professional athletes participating in sporting competitions, specialists working on cross-border projects, personnel supporting EU-based industries and services, and lorry drivers providing transport and logistics services for companies operating within the bloc. The document also references professionals whose work involves frequent movement between member states under contractual obligations.
According to the Commission, these occupations play a role in maintaining continuity in sectors such as culture, sport, transport, manufacturing, and technical services. Touring artists and athletes often face logistical difficulties under the current system due to tightly scheduled events spanning several countries. Cross-border specialists and technical personnel are frequently required on-site for infrastructure, industrial, and service-related projects that extend beyond the existing short-stay limit. The Commission also called on EU member states to simplify and accelerate visa procedures for skilled workers. It noted that lengthy processing times and differing national requirements can complicate legal access for professionals who support EU economic activity.
Current Schengen rules and the 90-day limitation
The document highlights the need for clearer procedures, improved coordination between national authorities, and more consistent application of visa rules across the bloc. Transport and logistics were identified as areas where mobility constraints have practical implications. Lorry drivers servicing EU enterprises often require repeated short-term entry to multiple countries, which can be difficult to manage under the current framework. The Commission said addressing these issues could support supply chain efficiency while remaining within existing legal and regulatory boundaries. The review does not introduce immediate changes to visa rules and does not alter the legal authority of member states over immigration matters. Any amendments to the short-stay framework would require discussions and agreement among EU governments, as well as alignment with existing Schengen regulations.
The Commission’s role is to assess policy options and present recommendations based on economic and administrative considerations. The Commission stated that any future adjustments would apply only to clearly defined professional activities and would include safeguards to ensure compliance with EU migration law. The review does not propose unrestricted access to the EU labour market and does not replace existing long-term visa or residence permit systems. Instead, it examines whether limited extensions or tailored arrangements could address operational needs without changing the overall structure of EU border controls. EU officials said the assessment reflects ongoing efforts to modernize administrative systems governing mobility and work-related travel.
Alignment with EU migration law requirements
The Commission has previously introduced digital tools and procedural updates aimed at improving visa processing and border management, particularly for legitimate business and professional travel. The findings of the review will be discussed with member states and relevant stakeholders as part of the Commission’s standard policy consultation process. No implementation timeline or legislative proposal has been announced. Any further steps would follow established EU legislative procedures and require formal approval by the relevant institutions. The Commission emphasized that the review is based on documented administrative and economic requirements identified by member states and industry sectors. Further details are expected to be communicated following consultations and internal assessments, in line with existing EU policymaking processes.