EU proposes military Schengen-style visa to enhance troop mobility

The European Commission has unveiled a proposal to create a military equivalent of the Schengen visa, designed to allow armed forces and military equipment to move seamlessly across European Union territory.

The announcement was made on November 19 by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

The initiative aims to establish a continent-wide military mobility framework by 2027, enabling faster and more coordinated deployments of troops in response to potential threats, including those stemming from Russia.

The proposal envisions the appointment of national coordinators for military transport, the implementation of an emergency mechanism to ease border-crossing regulations, and a €17 billion investment in EU transport infrastructure to support rapid movement of forces.

The move builds on prior efforts by EU member states. Earlier, eight countries signed a protocol of intent to facilitate military mobility, and on October 16, the European Commission presented its roadmap for EU defence readiness through 2030.

If implemented, the military Schengen-style pass would mark a significant step toward enhancing European defence integration, improving logistical efficiency, and strengthening the EU’s rapid-response capabilities across the continent.

By Vafa Guliyeva