Policy
29 January 2026
EU visa policy strategy sets new direction with implications for tourism
Policy
29 January 2026
Adventure tourism
Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism
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The European Commission has presented the EU Visa Policy Strategy, outlining how visa rules will evolve in the coming years. The strategy seeks to balance security with openness, modernise visa procedures and improve cooperation with partner countries. These changes are highly relevant for European tourism, as visa accessibility and predictability directly influence travel flows from non-EU markets. More details are available in the full strategy document.
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The new EU Visa Policy Strategy marks an important step in shaping how non-EU travellers access the Schengen area. The strategy frames visa policy as a strategic tool that supports security while enabling legitimate travel, including tourism, business and cultural exchange. It recognises that visa procedures play a significant role in Europe’s global attractiveness as a destination.
A key focus of the strategy is modernisation. The EU aims to make visa processes more digital, coordinated and transparent, reducing administrative burdens and improving the experience for applicants. For tourism, this could mean smoother planning for long-haul visitors and greater confidence when choosing Europe as a travel destination.
The strategy also highlights the economic dimension of visa policy. Easier and more predictable entry conditions can support tourism growth, particularly from high-value international markets. At the same time, the EU emphasises the need to maintain strong border management and adapt visa rules to changing global conditions.
For European tourism stakeholders, the strategy signals growing awareness at the EU level that mobility and access are fundamental to competitiveness. As destinations work to attract international visitors and diversify markets, visa policy will remain a key factor shaping future travel demand.
Full document available here:
https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/f873d151-f079-424b-9575-bece4113447c_en?filename=EU%20Visa%20Policy%20Strategy.pdf
#Mobility #Tourism Development #Responsible Travel #Smart Tourism
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