The European Commission has announced plans to revise the residency rules for certain categories of professionals from outside the European Union. The aim is to allow these workers to stay in the bloc beyond the current limit of 90 days within any 180-day period.
The measure is part of a new visa strategy presented in Brussels. The body requested that member countries make access to visas simpler and faster to attract talent and skilled workers, according to the newspaper “the sun 24 hours"
According to the official document, the Commission will work with Member States to identify solutions that allow for extended short stays. Priority will be given to categories that bring economic and security benefits to the region.
Beneficiary categories
The current legislation of Schengen Area It is considered restrictive for professionals who depend on mobility between countries. Among the groups mentioned in the plan are touring artists, athletes, truck drivers, and specialists in cross-border projects.
These categories typically require travel through different European Union countries for more than three months. The new model aims to offer legal clarity for these travelers without the need for long-term residence visas.
The current plan makes no mention of changes for other groups, such as property owners who do not hold European citizenship. The strategy focuses exclusively on economic competitiveness and attracting skilled labor.
System modernization
The European Commission also recommended digitizing visa application processes. The aim is to reduce bureaucracy and shorten processing times for students, researchers, and innovative entrepreneurs.
The Commission's Vice-President, Henna Virkkunen, stated that visa policy is a strategic tool. According to her, an efficient system attracts investment and qualified professionals, keeping Europe competitive on the global stage.
Security and control
Despite the increased flexibility for workers, the European Union It will strengthen immigration controls. The bloc plans to review the criteria for countries that have visa-exempt status. like Brazil.
Maintaining the visa-free entry benefit will depend on visa refusal rates and security cooperation. If these obligations are not met, the travel exemption may be suspended for certain nationalities.
