Roaming Charges in Europe Drop Again on July 1st

News from the European Parliament.

Extract from europa.eu.

Huge cuts in mobile data roaming price caps from 1 July – a drop of over 50% from last summer!

What’s more, from 1 July 2014 mobile providers in Europe can offer you a specific roaming deal before you travel and, where available, allow you to choose a local mobile provider for data services such as emailing, reading the news online, uploading photos and watching videos online, in the country you are visiting. So you can compare roaming offers, and benefit from more attractive offers and prices while you’re away! 

But that’s not the end of the story: the EU is working on new rules to eliminate roaming charges altogether. The Commission’s Connected Continent regulation would see the end of roaming charges, as well as a guaranteed open and neutral internet, and better consumer protection for mobile and broadband users.

Vice President of the European Commission, @NeelieKroesEU, responsible for the Digital Agenda said: “This huge drop in data roaming prices will make a big difference to all of us this summer. But it is not enough. Why should we have roaming charges at all in a single market? By the end of this year I hope we see the complete end of roaming charges agreed – the Parliament has done their part, now it is up to Member States to seal the deal!”

Updated:   By Myra.

1. End of Roaming Charges: The most significant update is that as of June 15, 2017, the European Union abolished roaming charges for mobile phone users within the EU. This means that EU citizens traveling within the EU can use their mobile phones to make calls, send texts, and use data without any additional charges—at the same rates they would pay at home. This initiative is commonly referred to as “Roam Like at Home.”
2. Fair Use Policy: Although roaming charges have been eliminated, a “fair use policy” is in place to prevent abusive practices. This policy ensures that users do not misuse the service by permanently roaming abroad.
3. Continued Regulatory Updates: The EU continues to monitor and regulate roaming services. For example, the “Roam Like at Home” regulation was extended beyond its initial period, with further updates to ensure consumer protection and fair pricing.
4. Post-Brexit Changes: Since the UK has left the EU, British mobile phone users are no longer automatically covered by these EU regulations. UK travelers may face roaming charges when visiting EU countries, depending on their mobile provider’s policies.

Given these significant changes, any mention of the previous caps and the expectations are updated to reflect the current status of EU roaming regulations.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.