Ukraine and Moldova secure EU mobile roaming benefits ahead of 2026

Ukraine and Moldova are set to join the European Union's 'roam like at home' (RLAH) mobile phone regime starting January 1, 2026. This significant move marks their progress toward EU membership and reflects the EU's ongoing support for both countries amid their aspirations for closer ties with Europe. The RLAH policy allows mobile users to make calls and use data while visiting other EU countries without incurring additional charges, essentially treating their roaming usage as domestic usage. This alignment will incorporate Ukraine and Moldova into the EU's internal market, enhancing consumer experiences in both nations. The alignment with the RLAH framework follows a series of legislative changes in both countries aimed at adopting EU roaming policies and telecommunications regulations. Ukraine's parliament completed this process by passing the final necessary bill in April 2025, shortly before notifying the European Commission that the laws had been published. Moldova, although slightly behind Ukraine, is also expected to complete the necessary changes shortly. The inclusion of Ukraine and Moldova in this mobile regime represents a historic first for the EU, as it signals a willingness to integrate countries that are candidates for membership into specific aspects of its single market. Despite the consumer benefits, this new regime poses economic challenges for telecom operators in both Ukraine and Moldova, who will likely face revenue declines similar to those experienced by EU operators when the RLAH policy was first introduced in 2017. Though the EU's move brings advantages to consumers, it raises questions regarding the territories where the policy applies, particularly in areas affected by conflict like Transnistria in Moldova and the Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine. This initiative is also viewed as part of a broader effort by the EU to extend its influence and normalize relations with neighboring countries amidst geopolitical tensions. By facilitating greater integration and cooperation through telecommunications, the EU aims to reinforce the social and economic ties that bind these nations together, ensuring their paths toward EU membership are supported through practical measures like mobile roaming benefits.