In a bid to fortify the security and integrity of the Schengen area, the European Union (EU) has bolstered its measures for suspending visa-free travel for citizens of third countries. Following an agreement among the ambassadors of EU member states (Coreper), a draft regulation has been endorsed, renewing the mechanism for suspension of visa-free travel within the Schengen zone.
The primary objective behind these regulatory updates is to equip the EU with the tools necessary to address instances of visa-free travel misuse that run counter to the EU’s interests.
Key amendments to the mechanism include the introduction of additional grounds for suspending the visa-free regime:
Inconsistency with EU Visa Policy: If a non-EU country fails to adhere to EU visa regulations, particularly concerning geographical proximity leading to a surge in applications for EU membership.
Investor Citizenship Schemes: Where citizenship is granted without credible connections to a third country, in exchange for predetermined fees and investments.
Hybrid Threats and Document Security Gaps: Addressing vulnerabilities in document security laws or procedures.
Moreover, EU member states are empowered to suspend visa-free travel in the event of:
Deterioration of External Relations: Especially concerning human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Substantial Increase in Unfounded Asylum Applications: Particularly from nationals with low recognition rates.
Lack of Cooperation on Readmission: Refusal to cooperate with the EU on the readmission of individuals asked to leave EU territory.
Threats to Public Policy or Security: Such as an upsurge in criminal activities.
Additionally, the duration of temporary suspension has been extended from 9 to 12 months, with the possibility of a further 24-month extension. Throughout the suspension period, the European Commission engages in dialogue with the concerned third country to rectify the issues prompting the suspension.
In cases where no resolution is reached, the EU reserves the right to cancel the visa-free travel regime altogether.
The final legislative text, endorsed by EU ambassadors, awaits agreement from the executive structures of the European Union and Parliament.
Implemented since 2018, the mechanism for temporary suspension of visa-free travel affects 61 countries with which the EU maintains a visa-free regime, including Georgia. This regime permits citizens of third countries to travel to the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
