7/24/2025

European Commission: Relaxation of Schengen Visa Rules for Turkish Citizens

After numerous complaints, delays, and promises that remained unfulfilled for a long time, the European Commission announced yesterday the easing of Schengen visa rules for Turkish citizens who have previously traveled to the Schengen area and complied with visa regulations.

At the same time, there is renewed interest in reviving negotiations for visa-free travel for Turkish nationals. According to the new package of rules approved by the Commission, eligible Turkish applicants will be able to obtain multiple-entry visas valid from six months up to five years, depending on their visa history.

This move is expected to make travel to most EU member states easier and faster.

“A step forward”

The EU Ambassador to Turkey, Tomas Hans Osowski, stated that the new rules address longstanding complaints by Turkish travelers regarding bureaucratic delays.

However, Osowski warned that these changes alone will not solve all the issues, though he emphasized that the European Commission's decision marks tangible progress. “It is urgent to return to the process of enabling visa-free travel within the Schengen zone and the EU,” he said, noting that the Commission is ready to closely cooperate with the Turkish authorities.

Satisfaction from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately welcomed the Commission’s decision to ease Schengen visa procedures for Turkish citizens.

“We welcome the Implementing Decision of the European Commission dated 15 July 2025, which introduces improvements in the Schengen visa application process for our citizens. Together with our relevant institutions and the EU Commission, we will continue working to further streamline the visa process,” the statement read.

This development is expected to be particularly well-received by Turkish businesspeople, many of whom have in the past been excluded from major international exhibitions – especially in Germany – due to delays in obtaining the necessary visa in time.

Source:https://www.capital.gr/diethni/3933925/xalaronei-i-xorigisi-bizas-sengken-se-tourkous/?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLoyJ9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHi32HAVhjqTAR6nemlJA510MhRjEvRAk_nN5P13TfbBdlG4wMaXTJiSb1pmM_aem_jLCLo71QVZj40Y47KUf4bA#Echobox=1752939143