On 14 October 2024, the Council of the European Union has formally adopted the agreement on the European Disability Card, which aims to enhance mobility for people with disabilities across the EU. This is a positive development for Europeans living with a rare disease, many of whom are affected by a related disability.
The new rules will establish an EU-wide disability card to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to preferential conditions, such as reduced or zero entry fees, priority access, and access to reserved parking. As outlined in the adopted text, individuals participating in mobility programmes such as Erasmus+ and third-country nationals.
The European Disability Card will be issued in physical format and, when available, in digital format, and will be issued and renewed free of charge. Depending on the country, costs could be charged for loss and damage to the card.
Next steps
Member States are to implement the directive by 5 June 2028.