Archive · 18 Jul 2025
EU Eases Visa Rules for Turks, Urges Visa-Free Talks
The EU is making it easier for Turkish people to get visas to visit the Schengen area, which includes many European countries.
This means Turkish citizens who have used visas properly in the past can now get visas that let them come and go multiple times.
The EU ambassador says this is a step in the right direction, but wants to restart talks about letting Turkish citizens travel to Europe without a visa altogether.
Turkey has wanted to join the EU since 1999, but that process has been paused for a while.
The EU is now willing to discuss making it easier for Turkish citizens to travel to the Schengen area.
EU eases Schengen visa rules for Turkish citizens.
New rules simplify the process for multiple-entry visas.
Eligible Turks can receive visas for six months, one year, three years, and five years.
EU Ambassador urges the revival of visa-free travel negotiations.
Turkey has been an EU membership candidate since 1999.
- Who
- The EU and Turkish citizens
- What
- The EU has eased visa rules for Turkish citizens.
- When
- The new rules have been in effect since July 15.
- Where
- Ankara, Turkey
- Why
- To address complaints about the visa system and potentially move towards visa-free travel.
EU's Position
Turkey's Position
Visa Accessibility
EU's Position
Easing visa rules is a positive step to improve the travel experience for Turkish citizens.
Turkey's Position
Focus on reviving visa-free travel negotiations is needed
- Policy Change
- Simplified multiple-entry visa process
- Implementation Date
- July 15
- EU Ambassador
- Thomas Hans Ossowski
- EU-Turkey Relationship
- EU membership candidate since 1999
- Visa Duration (Eligibility)
- Six months, one year, three years, and five years