Visa-free travel for Ukrainians at risk: EU approves suspension mechanism

The European Parliament has approved a reform regarding the visa-free regime for citizens of third countries. The new reform allows for the temporary or complete suspension of the visa-free regime for citizens of third countries who may stay in the Schengen Area for a short time. This was supported by 518 deputies, opposed by 96, and 24 abstained. Ukraine is among the 61 countries to which the new rule applies.

Reasons for suspending the visa-free regime may include hybrid threats, 'golden passports', and other violations of EU visa policy. The EU will also be able to limit visa-free travel for officials from violating countries, and the agreement on the liberalization of cargo transportation has been extended until 2027.

Additionally, the European Parliament has approved the implementation of a new Entry/Exit System for the EU's external borders, which will replace physical stamps in passports with electronic records.