EU plans for affordable calling services for Ukrainians residing in the EU starting from 2026

The European Union (EU) has announced an extension of the current agreement between its telecommunications operators and their Ukrainian counterparts, keeping the common roaming area intact until 31 December 2025. This decision comes as a significant step towards Ukraine's potential integration into the EU's roaming area.

The agreement, which was initially set to expire in 2021, will now be extended for another four years. During this period, both EU and Ukrainian citizens will continue to enjoy the benefits of the 'Roam like at Home' policy, which ensures that all mobile services, including calls, SMS messages, and data, will be charged at domestic rates.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has highlighted the proposal's aim to keep Ukrainian citizens connected to their loved ones across the EU. Thierry Breton, the EU Commission negotiator who proposed the integration of Ukraine into the EU roaming area, has reaffirmed the EU's continued commitment to support Ukraine in this endeavour.

If approved by the Council, Ukraine would join the EU 'Roam like at Home' area on 1 January 2026. Once integrated, Ukrainians will be able to call, text, and use mobile data from Ukrainian phone numbers at no extra cost within the EU. Similarly, travellers from Ukraine visiting the EU, and travellers from the EU visiting Ukraine, will not pay any extra roaming fees.

Moreover, the agreement ensures that consumers in Ukraine and the EU are entitled to the same mobile network quality and speed as at home. This is a crucial aspect, as it ensures a seamless experience for all users, whether they are in their home country or travelling abroad.

The extension of the current agreement and the proposed integration into the EU roaming area mark the first area where the EU will extend internal market treatment to Ukraine. The EU executive has sent the proposal for Ukraine's integration into the EU Roaming area to the Council for its approval.

It is important to note that the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement does not specify a date for the full integration of Ukraine into the EU. However, the proposed integration into the EU roaming area is a significant step towards closer ties between the EU and Ukraine.

In conclusion, the extension of the current agreement and the proposed integration into the EU roaming area underscore the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine and fostering closer ties between the two parties. If approved, this move will undoubtedly bring numerous benefits to both Ukrainian and EU citizens, allowing them to stay connected and enjoy the convenience of seamless mobile communication across borders.

EU plans for affordable calling services for Ukrainians residing in the EU starting from 2026