The strategy paper explores possible visa waivers, extended short stays and the problems faced by touring artists due to the 90/180 day Schengen rule. Image credit: Shutterstock.
On 29 January 2026, the European Commission released a communication to the European Parliament and the Council outlining a strategy for a possible revision of the current EU Visa Policy.
The strategy paper recognises the difficulties and complexities faced by touring artists and cultural professionals when trying to work in the EU. It explores possible visa waivers, extended short stays and the problems faced by touring artists due to the 90/180 day Schengen rule, aiming to identify pragmatic solutions to the problems.
A welcome step in the right direction
The MU has been campaigning alongside industry partners for solutions to the barriers touring artists face.
Discussions with the UK Government since the first UK/EU Summit in 2025 have been productive and the creation of the Cultural Exchange Coalition is one step in the right direction to finding solutions.
Dave Webster, Head of International for the MU says: “The publication of this paper from the EU is most welcome. We look forward to seeing the results of this as engagement between the UK and the EU continues, and hope that the UK/EU Summit in 2026 brings further solutions to the problems MU members face.”
It's time to fix EU touring
Find out more about how we’re campaigning for musicians touring in the EU, on issues including visa rules, carnet fees, and the challenges of moving instruments and equipment and selling merchandise.