EU Visa Strategy: new developments to attract talent to the european union

The European Union is taking a decisive step toward a more modern, strategic, and future-oriented visa policy. With the adoption of the first “EU Visa Strategy,” the European Commission introduces an innovative framework designed to respond to new global mobility dynamics, strengthen the security of the Schengen area, and make Europe a more attractive destination for talent, students, and highly qualified professionals.

This strategy goes beyond a purely technical revision of procedures; it reflects a long-term vision that takes into account geopolitical challenges, international competition for skills, and the need to support European economic growth.

A strategy serving EU interests

The new EU Visa Strategy is built around three main objectives: ensuring a high level of security, strengthening the Union’s competitiveness, and promoting EU values and its role on the global stage. In a context marked by increasing migration flows and intense competition for talent, visa policy becomes a key instrument of economic and strategic policy.

In parallel, the Commission has adopted a Recommendation on attracting talent for innovation, aimed at making Europe more accessible and appealing to researchers, international students, highly qualified professionals, and innovative entrepreneurs.

Strengthened security in the Schengen area

The first pillar of the strategy focuses on enhanced security. The EU intends to modernize the visa-exemption system for partner countries by introducing more effective monitoring mechanisms and targeted intervention tools in cases of abuse or security risks.

Additional measures are planned to improve the security of travel documents and, where necessary, to introduce selective visa restrictions as a diplomatic lever. The goal is to preserve free movement within the Schengen area without compromising internal security.

Competitiveness and talent attraction

A central element of the EU Visa Strategy is support for European economic competitiveness. Making access to the EU simpler and more predictable for law-abiding travelers, professionals, and investors helps strengthen the productive fabric and the innovation ecosystem.

Among the most significant measures is the digitalization of procedures. As early as this year, the ETIAS system is expected to enable faster and partially automated pre-departure checks for visa-exempt travelers. Trusted travelers will also benefit from longer-validity multiple-entry visas, facilitating business mobility and international cooperation.

In this context, conditions for the entry of highly qualified workers are also improving, with greater support for both non-EU nationals and employers. This is reinforced by the role of European Legal Gateway Offices—offices dedicated to assisting employers and non-EU talent with visa application procedures. The first pilot project has already been launched in India in relation to the technology sector.

Digital tools and modern visa management

The strategy foresees strong investment in digital technologies. By 2028, European IT systems for visa and border management will be fully interoperable, allowing authorities to consult multiple databases through a single platform.

This approach will improve information sharing, reduce fraud risks, and make procedures more efficient, benefiting both administrations and applicants.

A recommendation for innovation and human capital

Complementing the strategy, the Recommendation on attracting talent invites Member States to simplify and accelerate procedures for long-stay visas and residence permits. More digitalized processes, reduced documentation requirements, and shorter response times are encouraged.

Particular attention is given to intra-EU mobility and to making transitions from study or research to employment or entrepreneurial activity easier. Improving access to information and strengthening cooperation among national authorities, universities, and research centers is essential to making Europe a true global hub for innovation.

With the EU Visa Strategy, the European Union redefines the role of visa policy as a strategic lever for security, growth, and talent attraction. For countries such as Italy, these developments represent a concrete opportunity to strengthen their ability to attract international skills through more efficient and competitive tools, making the Italian visa an integral part of a broader, forward-looking European vision.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law, and Paolo Grassi, Trainee of LCA Studio Legale.