On 24 June 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted an Implementing Decision suspending certain provisions of the Visa Code (Regulation 810/2009) with respect to Somalia. Italy abstained from the vote, arguing that activating restrictive measures at this stage would undermine positive momentum in readmission cooperation.
The decision leverages Article 25a of the Visa Code, which allows the EU to suspend visa facilitation provisions as a tool to incentivise third-country cooperation on readmission. Italy did not oppose the mechanism in principle but considered its application against Somalia premature. In a Note Verbale dated 20 June 2026, Somalia communicated its intention to lift the suspension of non-voluntary returns, in place since 2021, effective 1 July 2026. Somalia also committed to a structured cooperation framework with measurable deliverables on emergency travel documents, caseload processing, case management, reporting, designating a single competent authority, and full engagement in the forthcoming third technical dialogue.
Italy argued that the adoption should be postponed to allow a limited timeframe to assess implementation of these recent commitments. Instead of restrictive measures, Italy advocated for consolidation through prevention, capacity building, partnership, enhanced regional and diplomatic engagement, and legal pathways. The decision nonetheless went ahead, with Italy abstaining.
The measure impacts Somali nationals seeking visas to the Schengen area, as the suspension of certain Visa Code provisions may lead to stricter requirements or longer processing times. EU member states will need to adjust their visa application procedures accordingly. The decision also signals the EU's continued use of visa policy as a leverage tool for readmission cooperation, a practice that has drawn both support and criticism from member states and civil society. Italy's abstention highlights internal divisions over the timing and appropriateness of such measures, balancing the need for effective returns against the risk of disrupting diplomatic progress.
Institutional follow-up will involve monitoring Somalia's implementation of its commitments, with the possibility of revisiting the suspension if cooperation materialises. The European Commission and the European External Action Service are expected to report on progress in the coming months.