In the early hours of 20 February 2026 the European Commission quietly briefed journalists on a draft Schengen-visa strategy that would allow ‘trusted’ frequent travellers to obtain multiple-entry visas valid for more than five years. According to the leak—first reported by Moroccan outlet Hespress—the privilege would apply to applicants with an impeccable travel history, clean security checks and proof of substantial economic ties to the EU. For German corporations the proposal could be a game-changer. Executives from key partner markets such as India, China and the Gulf often complain that two- or three-year MEVs (multiple-entry visas) expire in the middle of long-term projects, forcing costly repeat applications. A five- or even ten-year visa would align the EU with the United States’ B1/B2 model and simplify scheduling for trade-fair circuits in Munich, Düsseldorf and Hannover.
![EU Floats 5-Year-Plus Schengen Visas for Trusted Travellers in New Strategy]()
For companies and executives now trying to anticipate these new rules, VisaHQ offers a useful shortcut: the firm’s German portal (https://www.visahq.com/germany/) continuously monitors Schengen policy changes, pre-screens documentation and submits applications on behalf of travellers, helping eligible clients secure the longest possible multiple-entry visa with far less administrative friction.
Yet the plan comes with strings attached. Brussels intends to combine longer visas with the fully digital Entry/Exit System and with closer monitoring of overstays via airline passenger-name records. Member states could also revoke the long visa swiftly if an irregularity is detected. Privacy advocates warn of "visa-score algorithms" that may discriminate against lesser-known SMEs or applicants from countries with weaker passport rankings. Germany’s Interior Ministry said it supports the direction of travel but will insist on a clear appeals process and on reciprocity where possible. Business associations such as the BDI urge rapid adoption, arguing that Germany’s export engine depends on predictable access for suppliers and clients. The Commission is expected to publish the full legislative package by June 2026, after which the German Bundestag will need to amend domestic regulations on long-stay ‘visitor for business’ categories to mirror the new rules.
For companies and executives now trying to anticipate these new rules, VisaHQ offers a useful shortcut: the firm’s German portal (https://www.visahq.com/germany/) continuously monitors Schengen policy changes, pre-screens documentation and submits applications on behalf of travellers, helping eligible clients secure the longest possible multiple-entry visa with far less administrative friction.
Yet the plan comes with strings attached. Brussels intends to combine longer visas with the fully digital Entry/Exit System and with closer monitoring of overstays via airline passenger-name records. Member states could also revoke the long visa swiftly if an irregularity is detected. Privacy advocates warn of "visa-score algorithms" that may discriminate against lesser-known SMEs or applicants from countries with weaker passport rankings. Germany’s Interior Ministry said it supports the direction of travel but will insist on a clear appeals process and on reciprocity where possible. Business associations such as the BDI urge rapid adoption, arguing that Germany’s export engine depends on predictable access for suppliers and clients. The Commission is expected to publish the full legislative package by June 2026, after which the German Bundestag will need to amend domestic regulations on long-stay ‘visitor for business’ categories to mirror the new rules.
