The European Commission has acknowledged that existing Schengen rules on short-term stay limits are causing major issues for professional truck drivers from non-EU countries, particularly those from the Western Balkans, and is now seeking a system-level solution at the EU level. Under current rules, drivers can spend a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area, a restriction that also applies to commercial drivers due to the Exit/Entry System (EES).
The issue has triggered protests and temporary blockades at freight border crossings across the region, as transport associations warn that the current regime seriously disrupts logistics, trade flows and supply chains. The European Commission says it is considering legislative and visa-related adjustments tailored specifically for professional drivers, though concrete measures are not expected before 2026.
