EU Council Decision: Moldovans to get free EU roaming starting January 1, 2026
Beginning January 1, 2026, citizens of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine will be able to make calls, send messages, and use mobile internet in the European Union without incurring additional charges, thanks to the "Roam Like at Home" policy. This decision, which was approved by the EU Council on Friday, July 25, represents a significant advancement in the economic and digital integration of these two countries into the European single market.
On July 25, the Council of the European Union adopted a decision to integrate the Republic of Moldova into the "Roam like at home" regime, effective January 1, 2026. This decision follows a similar one for Ukraine, which was approved on July 14.
As a result, Moldovan and Ukrainian citizens traveling to the EU, along with European citizens visiting both countries, will be able to use mobile services without incurring additional fees. They will enjoy the same quality and speed of network services as they do in their home countries.
"In less than six months, Moldovans will be able to communicate freely throughout the European Union, just like any European citizen. This decision marks an important step in our gradual integration into the EU and is a significant achievement for our country," emphasized Daniela Morari, the Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Brussels, in a Facebook message.
Additionally, the decision ensures free access to emergency services, regardless of the country in which the user is located. Mobile operators will be obligated to offer the same level of network quality as at home, including connection speeds and access to 5G technology, to the extent possible. Any discrepancies in service must be clearly communicated to users and included in service contracts.
The Republic of Moldova's integration into the EU roaming area aligns with the objective of economic rapprochement outlined in the Association Agreement signed in 2016. Currently, Moldovan citizens already benefit from lower roaming rates as a result of a bilateral agreement in effect since 2024.
As for Ukraine, there has been a voluntary agreement between EU and Ukrainian telephone operators since 2022, allowing calls, SMS, and mobile data at reduced costs. This agreement will remain in place until the end of 2025, after which it will be replaced by the "Roam like at home" regime.
Since 2017, citizens of the European Union have enjoyed the benefits of the "Roam like at home" regime, which allows them to use mobile services in all 27 member states, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, at the same rates as in their home countries. The United Kingdom is no longer part of this system following Brexit, although some operators have chosen to retain these benefits for their customers.
Starting July 1, 2022, the rules were enhanced to provide a better roaming experience, with improved connectivity, clearer information, and increased transparency in contracts.
