RHA has underlined its call for a professional drivers’ exemption from the Schengen-area 90/180-day rule that applies to third-country nationals after the European Commission (EC) said it will work with member states on “pragmatic solutions” to allow extended short stays for selected professional categories of those individuals.
That position is within a communication on visa policy strategy from the Commission on 29 January. It recognises HGV drivers from third countries – of which the UK is one – as being among parties that may require access to the EU for more than the 90-in-180-day limit, although coach drivers are not specifically referenced.
Any such solutions will ensure a security and economic benefit for the EU as well as giving legal clarity for travellers, the document continues. RHA has consistently included coach and HGV drivers in its call for the exemption.
Managing Director Richard Smith says the trade body is “encouraged” that the Commission acknowledges challenges that stricter enforcement of the 90/180 rule under the Schengen-area Entry/Exit System (EES) will pose on businesses including coach and haulage firms.
He says that adds impetus to RHA’s longstanding position that the UK government should work to strike a deal for a professional drivers’ exemption from the 90/180-day rule. RHA has made the case for such an exemption to the EU Trade Commissioner as part of a ramp-up in campaigning.
Mr Smith notes that while adoption would protect UK businesses moving people and goods across EU borders, it would also benefit EU tourist destinations and supply chains.
“We take heart that the European Commission’s [visa policy] strategy references that our sector – and others relying on us – ‘may require access to different member states for more than 90 days within 180 days, without needing long-stay or residence in the EU’,” he continues.
Mr Smith also acknowledges how the EC position will additionally explore introduction of new legislation with a specific set of extended short-stay rules at EU level.
“The EC clearly acknowledges the value that third-country businesses including transport bring to its economies and the challenges that stricter checks will bring. This is a great opportunity for the UK government to make a case for a professional drivers’ exemption and other easements in reset talks.”
Difficulties for coach operators that carry out significant overseas work under stronger enforcement of the 90/180-day rule are well known, while some mainstream media sources have predicted long delays at entry points to the EU in the coming summer season.
Nevertheless, the EC communication says that EES began operation “successfully” in October 2025 and that more than 20 million entries and exits have been registered since then.
