EU explains how new visa strategy will affect Turkish citizens

The European Commission said its newly proposed visa strategy does not directly affect Turkish citizens, responding to questions after recent debate in the Turkish media.

A Commission spokesperson told Anadolu Agency that there is no element in the strategy that directly targets Türkiye. The spokesperson also said the proposal does not single out any specific country or geographic region.

The statement comes after the Commission announced the new visa strategy on Jan. 29, prompting claims in parts of the Turkish press that Türkiye could face additional measures.

EU clarifies rules for Turkish passport holders

The Commission addressed reports suggesting that holders of special status passports, including green passports, could face new requirements.

The spokesperson said Turkish citizens who can already travel visa-free, such as holders of diplomatic or green passports, will not need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System, known as ETIAS, which is expected to be implemented in the last quarter of 2026.

“These individuals will be able to travel without a visa and without ETIAS travel authorization,” the spokesperson said to Anadolu.

The Commission also noted that Türkiye is not currently among the countries with visa exemption status. Turkish citizens, therefore, do not fall under the ETIAS system.

“For this reason, Turkish citizens need to obtain a visa, not an ETIAS travel authorization, in order to cross the EU’s external borders,” the spokesperson added.

What EU’s new visa strategy proposes

The Commission announced on Jan. 29 that the new visa strategy aims to use visa policy in a more strategic and coordinated way.

The proposal includes:

• Granting visa facilitation to third countries that cooperate with the EU in combating irregular migration
• Increasing monitoring of visa-free travel regimes
• Maintaining visa-free travel for countries that meet their obligations
• Considering suspension or restriction of visa applications for third countries that do not cooperate on return and readmission or that pose security threats

The strategy also states that the EU may review existing legislation concerning qualified workers, students, researchers and innovative entrepreneurs.

Türkiye has conducted a Visa Liberalization Dialogue with the EU since 2013.

The Commission’s latest clarification signals that the new visa strategy does not introduce any direct change to the current framework for Turkish citizens.

February 06, 2026 03:07 PM GMT+03:00