EU May Suspend Visa-Free Access for More Countries Under Revised Regulations

Key Takeaways

1. The EU Council and Parliament have agreed to expand the list of grounds that can trigger the suspension of visa-free travel for third countries.

2. Four new criteria have been added to the existing framework.

3. The proposed changes would also extend the possible suspension period by three months.

EU Agrees on Expanded Criteria for Suspending Visa-Free Travel to Schengen Area

The European Union Council and Parliament have reached a provisional agreement to revise the rules governing the suspension of visa-free travel for non-EU countries. The changes, approved on June 17, 2025, broaden the circumstances under which the EU can temporarily revoke visa-free access to the Schengen Zone.

According to the Council, the updated law will enhance the EU’s ability to respond to cases where visa-free arrangements are being misused or are no longer in the Union’s interest.

New Suspension Grounds Introduced

The revised framework introduces four additional triggers for suspension. One of the most significant is the misalignment of a third country’s visa policy with that of the EU. A country that allows visa-free entry to nationals of states considered high-risk by the EU could indirectly contribute to irregular migration flows into the bloc.

Countries that offer citizenship through investor schemes—so-called “golden passports”—also face suspension risks if they grant citizenship without stringent due diligence or without aligning with EU security and immigration standards.

Other newly added grounds include:

• The presence of hybrid threats, such as cyberattacks or disinformation campaigns;

• A marked deterioration in diplomatic or political relations with the EU.

Longer Suspension Periods Under the New Rules

The Council and Parliament have also agreed to extend the initial period of suspension. Under the new regulation, the duration will increase from nine months to 12 months, with the possibility of extending it for an additional 24 months if necessary.

This temporary suspension period is intended to give the European Commission time to negotiate with the country concerned in hopes of resolving the issue. However, if no satisfactory progress is made, the EU reserves the right to fully revoke the visa exemption.

Thresholds for Suspension to Be Clarified

The amended legislation will introduce clearer thresholds for triggering each suspension ground. This is expected to improve the consistency and effectiveness of the mechanism while ensuring that third countries understand the conditions under which their visa-free status may be at risk.

While this agreement is currently provisional, it must still receive final approval from both the Council and the Parliament before being formally adopted into EU law.